How many adults must be present at training and matches?
Guideline- England
- England Football
- The FA
- Safeguarding
- Youth football
- FA Safeguarding Children Regulations
- 2026/27
- Club Welfare Officers
- Under 18
The FA's guidance on ratios (Guidance Note 5.5) sets these minimums:
- Any age, any activity: at least two FA-DBS-checked coaches or adults must always be present, so there is cover if an incident happens.
- Players aged 12 and over (squads of up to about 16): at least one FA-DBS-checked coach per squad plus another FA-DBS-checked coach or adult present at all times.
- 5v5, 7v7 and 9v9 with players aged 6 to 11: a higher ratio of staff to squad is needed. Where children are 8 or younger, you need more staff, and never fewer than two FA-DBS-checked adults.
- Mixed-sex groups: male and female staff should be available.
- Disability football: ratios are set case by case, considering facilities, evacuation procedures, health and communication needs, and players' support needs.
Coaches or young leaders aged 16 or 17 do not count as adults. Having them in the group means you need more adults, not fewer.
The FA points to the NSPCC's recommended adult-to-child ratios as a guide:
| Age | Adults to children |
|---|---|
| 4 to 8 | 1:6 |
| 9 to 12 | 1:8 |
| 13 to 18 | 1:10 |
Anyone supervising, instructing or coaching frequently (more than 3 days in any 30-day period) must hold an in-date FA DBS check.
Added 21 Oct 2026