We are backing the introduction of strong measures across football to tackle bad behaviour within football grounds. This includes physical violence, discriminatory behaviour, excessive use of alcohol or drugs, entering the pitch without permission, carrying or using smoke bombs/flares and throwing objects onto the pitch. All these actions are illegal, dangerous and have no place at our club or anywhere in our game.
“It is our responsibility and absolute priority that every visitor to The Crucial Environmental Stadium is kept safe, made welcome and has an enjoyable match day experience.”
As part of the Football wide initiative, and for everyone’s safety, Worthing Football Cub will report anyone carrying out these offences to the police. Prosecution by the police can result in a permanent criminal record, which could affect an offender’s employment and education, and in some cases, result in a prison sentence.
As well as notifying the police, anyone carrying out these offences may receive an automatic club ban. This could also now apply to the parents or guardians of children involved in these activities.
Club Chairman Barry Hunter commented:
“We have a fantastic supporter base, with high match day attendances and a growing engagement with all corners of our community.
It is our responsibility and absolute priority that every visitor to The Crucial Environmental Stadium is kept safe, made welcome and has an enjoyable match day experience.
The Fan Behaviour and Safety policy, launched by the football bodies, is a welcome move and one we support. We will continually evolve our match day policies, practices, resources, equipment and procedures, to ensure our standards are relevant and fit for purpose.
We also appreciate that the absolute majority of our visitors, week in, week out, are true supporters, well behaved and well-intended. Any response or policy evolution will therefore be proportionate and appropriate.
This will be in consultation with Safety Advisory Groups, our own supporter groups, other clubs and the Football Unit of Sussex and Surrey Police. A summary of our key policies will be issued by the club ahead of our next senior men’s home fixture”
LOVE FOOTBALL. PROTECT THE GAME.
