Following a match in the Midlands area, one of our referees was charged with using abusive language towards a spectator, which he strenuously denied.
Thanks to the work of two members of the RA Representation Team, the case was found 'not proven'. This case had not been handled well by the County FA concerned and had been prolonged for months, which caused unnecessary stress and mental health problems for our member. Once the case was heard, the accusing club's witnesses gave mixed reports and the one witness who had been pushing for charges to be levied, went home before he was called. However, our member's witnesses gave very clear accounts to support him.
Following the hearing, our member wrote "l just want to say that the RA were unbelievably supportive to me, Alec and Lyall were fantastic and the support they gave me was tremendous and is still going on. l can't thank the both of them enough. I would strongly recommend that everyone who is starting out in refereeing or existing referees join their local RA; they can help ordinary people like me and you". Referee M Midlands
Thanks to the work of two members of the RA Representation Team, the case was found 'not proven'. This case had not been handled well by the County FA concerned and had been prolonged for months, which caused unnecessary stress and mental health problems for our member. Once the case was heard, the accusing club's witnesses gave mixed reports and the one witness who had been pushing for charges to be levied, went home before he was called. However, our member's witnesses gave very clear accounts to support him.
Following the hearing, our member wrote "l just want to say that the RA were unbelievably supportive to me, Alec and Lyall were fantastic and the support they gave me was tremendous and is still going on. l can't thank the both of them enough. I would strongly recommend that everyone who is starting out in refereeing or existing referees join their local RA; they can help ordinary people like me and you". Referee M Midlands
If you require any support or advice from our Welfare and Representation Team, please email welfare@the-ra.org
Our Partnerships
Partnerships are often formed between individuals, agencies or organisations with a shared interest to address specific issues. Our evidence reveals that our members young and old often require mental, emotional, financial, medical help, support and guidance. The Referees’ Association champion the work of those agencies that provide this support in times of need. Should you require support please contact the relevant agency below or the RA Head Office.
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Join the Referees Association
The National RA recommends that prospective members should join through their local LRA, the easiest way being to attend one of the many local association meetings that take place across the country on a regular (usually monthly) basis. Find your nearest branch now.
Alternatively, online membership is now available for any referee who wishes to take up central membership. The National RA will then allocate you a local branch. Join now.