Have a query over the Christmas break? Want to report a safeguarding concern? Here’s what you need to know while we are closed

Please be aware that our office will be closed from 5:00pm Monday 23rd December through to New Year, reopening on Thursday 2nd January 2025.

While the majority of clubs in the county will be not be active over the festive period, we have put together answers to the most commonly asked questions just in case you have any queries during this time.

Download the relevant FAQ by following the links below:

• Safeguarding FAQs
• Discipline FAQs
• Coach Education FAQs

Please understand that if you contact us during this time you will not get an immediate response – we will endeavour to get back to you as soon as possible on our return.

In the case of appealing red cards be aware that there are strict timescales that need to be followed. We do have staff monitoring the discipline emails for any claims/appeals that may come in. Further details and the timescales can be found in the Discipline FAQs document linked above.

Reporting Safeguarding Concerns

If you have a concern to report you can contact our Designated Safeguarding Officer on 07538 990836. Calls on this number will be monitored over the break so please leave a message and they will get back to you as necessary. Any non-essential calls will not be returned until after the Christmas break.

Alternatively if you have an urgent concern over the welfare of a young person you can also call Hertfordshire Children, Schools and Families on 0300 123 40 43 or the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000. If you have an urgent concern around an adult at risk, you can call Hertfordshire Adult Social Services on 0300 123 4042.

If you believe a child or adult at risk is in immediate danger of harm you should always call the Police on 999.

Grassroots Technology Questions

If you have a question about using FA grassroots technology platforms, including Whole Game System, Player Registration, Full Time and the Matchday app, the Grassroots Technology Support Portal is packed with useful information to help make football admin easier.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

We would also like to take the opportunity to say a massive thank you to all the players, parents, match officials and volunteers in grassroots clubs and leagues across Hertfordshire whose efforts have helped to grow the game and improve standards in football throughout 2024.

We wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Stay safe over the break and we and look forward to working with you again in 2025!