The new campaign highlights the importance of positive behaviour towards young footballers, specifically looking at the impact parents and coaches can have. The campaign is rooted in extensive research carried out in 2017/18 to understand more clearly the effect of negative behaviour on Under 7s - Under 18s and where Respect interventions would be most effective.
The research provided clear evidence of why positivity was so important in the youth game. The stand-out insight was that 9 in 10 children played better with positive encouragement. In addition, the research highlighted that negative experiences on children had a serious adverse effects on both in their footballing ability and more widely to their enjoyment of the sport.
‘We Only Do Positive’ is a response to this research and uses an all new strategic approach to target coaches and parents specifically around mini-soccer and youth football. It aims to promote and educate coaches and parents on their roles in creating a fun, safe and inclusive environment for all the players, ensuring they have great experiences throughout their football journey.
I’m involved with a local club and I’ve seen some poor behaviour and I’d like to report it, what should I do next?
Within your club you will have a Welfare officer, you can gain his or her details from your club secretary (if you’re not aware who this is). Please speak to them ASAP after the incident and they will be able to action the next steps, depending on the seriousness of the incident.
What is a Respect Champion?
Someone who promotes all the behaviours (for example fairness, integrity, inclusion and leadership). This could be someone within a club or league and is not a formal role. Why not have more than one!
Is funding available to help promote Respect?
Yes, there is a Respect equipment scheme which the FA delivers in partnership with the Football Foundation. You can visit by clicking here.
How can I engage with my county FA to promote good practice for Respect via social media?
Gloucestershire FA would love to hear some positive work being carried out for Respect. If your County FA is on social media, simply use their handle and engage using #ForRespect. Share your message and a picture. Please note, if you are taking pictures of children and using for social media, consent will need to be given by the child’s parent/guardian/carer.
I’d like to pilot a new programme or initiative for Respect, who should I speak to for advice?
Please contact the Respect Champion or County Welfare officer at the Gloucestershire FA. We would be happy to hear your ideas and can provide you with some constructive feedback.
Whose responsibility is it to lead on Respect?
Everyone is responsible and should play their part in creating safe, fun and inclusive environments. No matter what your role is, let’s work together to unite the game.
Yes, absolutely. Gloucestershire FA are happy to work with individuals/groups that wish to champion Respect. Please send details of your workshop to your Respect contact.