What is “No Fault Stand Down” and why does the FSA back it? 

At this year’s FSA AGM supporters from across the country joined forces to discuss and debate the range of issues facing matchgoing supporters. 

One of the conference’s motions, proposed by FSA Board member Sarah Keig (Fulham Lillies), called on football to adopt a “No Fault Stand Down” policy while investigations or trials are ongoing – an idea that was overwhelmingly supported by our members. 

The No Fault Stand Down policy is based on a simple, reasonable principle, that when a player or staff member is under investigation for serious offences – including but not limited to sexual violence – clubs should have the ability to stand them down from playing or public facing duties, without prejudice. 

The National Rugby League (Australia) implemented this policy many years ago and we encourage the FA, Premier League, EFL and National League to follow that lead.

It is important to add that this is a precautionary measure, not a judgement of guilt, but it sends a vital message that the game takes safeguarding seriously and that the wellbeing of supporters matters.

The motion reflects a growing call from women’s supporter’s groups across the country for football to take stronger, survivor-centred action when serious, credible allegations are under investigation. 

As well as being an FSA Board member, Sarah Keig is also coordinating our new Women’s Voice In The Men’s Game campaign alongside FSA staff member Hannah Kumari, with strong support from the likes of FSA member groups Fulham Lillies, Villa Bellas, Women of Watford, Women of the Lane, Garibaldi Girls and the Sheffield Wednesday Women’s Supporters Group.

“As supporters, we love this sport,” said Keig. “But we also know that football has to do more to reflect the values we believe in. When allegations of serious harm arise, football’s response can have a real impact on the wider culture — on whether survivors feel safe coming forward, and on how women and girls experience the game.

“A No Fault Stand Down policy helps create the space for formal processes and procedures to take their course while making clear that football does not turn a blind eye to violence or abuse. It’s a small but important step towards a safer, more inclusive sport.”

The FSA urges clubs, leagues, and governing bodies to engage seriously with this issue and put robust, transparent policies in place. The game should be somewhere everyone feels safe, welcome, and respected — on and off the pitch.

• Read more on the motion and the FSA AGM 2025 here.

The FSA is by fans, for fans – join for free here.