The FA Charter Standard

The Charter Standard Scheme is best practice guide that sets standards of coaching, administration and child protection for all clubs outside the Football League and Premier League. As a benchmark for quality, it will improve the playing experience for all.

The FA Charter Standard Clubs programme, supported by FA Community Partner McDonald's, was launched in February 2001 and is a core component of The FA Football Development programme

The project is aimed at all clubs outside the Football League and Premier League, players, children and parents find a club in their local area that meets FA standards.
 
Criteria

The FA, in conjunction with various bodies, has drawn up the following set of criteria for clubs wishing to reach Charter Standard:

A written constitution
FA CRB checked volunteers
All managers to have minimum of FA Level 1 Coaching Course
Commitment to attend in-service training
Acceptance and promotion of Codes of Conduct
Commitment to provide Mini-Soccer opportunities for Under 10s
Commitment to promote schools liaison and equal opportunities for all

The FA Community Club scheme builds upon the foundations of the Charter Standard scheme in placing clubs at the heart of their community.

Community Clubs, the pinnacle of the club development pathway, will be those that have a high quality, multi-team (minimum of 10 teams) set up with excellent social, training and playing opportunities for all. As such, the number of Community Clubs is one of the truest measures of success for The FA Football Development strategy.

All new FA Community Clubs are required to meet FA criteria, ensuring they provide opportunities for players irrespective of age, gender, religion and ability. Clubs must also provide qualified coaches, first aiders and child protection officers.