Middlesex FA, based at Rectory Park in Northolt, has unveiled a new package of measures to protect under-18 referees following a sharp rise in misconduct cases against young officials last season.
The initiative, which was announced ahead of the Football Association’s Play Safe weekend (27–28 September 2025), is aimed at safeguarding grassroots referees at the very start of their officiating careers.
Under the changes, all U18 referees will be given the option to wear yellow armbands. Abuse directed at a match official wearing one will be treated as an aggravated offence, triggering tougher sanctions. Young referees will also be given pocket guides setting out how to report safeguarding issues, misconduct or discrimination, alongside direct contacts for the county’s referee development officer and safeguarding staff.
Daniel Perkins, Middlesex FA’s safeguarding and equality lead, said: “This new support package is all about giving our U18 referees the backing they deserve, with clear access to local contacts and resources whenever they need them. Alongside this, we’re raising awareness with the introduction of yellow armbands – making young officials instantly identifiable, and sending a strong message that any abuse directed at them will be treated as an aggravated offence. Misconduct has no place in our game.”
Daryl Ann, the county’s referee development officer, added: “Our young referees are the future of the game, and it’s vital that we look after them as they take their first steps on the officiating pathway. This initiative is about more than just protecting them on matchdays – it’s about safeguarding their wellbeing, giving them confidence, and making sure they feel valued in every fixture.”
