SEASON CARD – CONDITIONS OF ISSUE

1. Issue of Season Card

1.1 The issue of a Season Card and subsequent access to The Crown Oil Arena is subject to the Terms & Conditions of Entry found on this page.

1.2 Season Cards are for the use of supporters of Rochdale AFC (RAFC) only. By applying for a Season Card and/or using the same you hereby warrant and represent that you are a supporter of RAFC.

1.3 Season Card prices are based on a supporters age on 1st September of the relevant upcoming season. The age categories are as follows;

Adult (22-64 years old)

Senior (65+)

Young Person (Under-22)

Junior (Under-14)*

*Under 2 FOC

*Tickets must be purchased with an Adult/Senior Card

2. Admission to Crown Oil Arena

2.1 By purchasing and/or accepting and/or holding a Season Card and/or using a Season Card to gain access to The Crown oil Arena, you: (a) certify that you have read, understood and accepted; (b) agree to be bound by and to comply with; and (c) agree to bring to the attention of others, as required below, the Terms & Conditions of Entry.

2.2 A Season Card permits you to occupy at the Match the seat indicated on the Season Card or such other alternative seat of equivalent value as RAFC may, from time to time, allocate to you at its reasonable discretion. Rochdale AFC reserves the right to relocate Season Card holders to a seat of similar standard to the one purchased at any time of the season for operational reasons. For example, without limitation, to facilitate ongoing stadium improvements and construction.

All access to The Crown Oil Arena pursuant to a Season Card shall be for the purposes of private enjoyment of the Match only, not for any commercial purpose (and no authorisation is given or implied in respect of the carrying out of any commercial activities).

2.3 Nothing in these Conditions of Issue shall constitute or imply any entitlement to occupy the seat indicated on the Season Card in any subsequent season.

2.4 Save as set out in clause 2.5 below, you shall not bring into or use within The Crown Oil Arena, or otherwise provide to, facilitate or otherwise assist any other person to use within The Crown Oil Arena, any equipment or technology that is capable of capturing, logging, recording, transmitting, playing, issuing, showing or otherwise communicating (by digital or other means) any audio, visual or audio-visual material or any information or data in relation to the Match or any aspect of it (“Material”). Any person acting in breach of this provision may have such equipment or technology confiscated and/or will be required to deliver up any tapes, films, disks, memory cards, memory sticks or other recordings of the Material (and all copies thereof) in whatever form, to the EFL and/or RAFC and the copyright, database right and all other rights, title and interest in and to all Material is hereby assigned to the EFL, including by way of present assignment of future copyright pursuant to section 91 of the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988.

2.5 Mobile telephones are permitted within The Crown Oil Arena, provided that they are used for personal and private use only (which, for the avoidance of doubt, shall not include the capturing, logging, recording, transmitting, playing, issuing, showing or otherwise communicating of any Material for any commercial purpose).

2.6 Save for official RAFC merchandise and/or other football-related clothing worn in good faith, you shall not bring into, use, wear, or display within RAFC any sponsorship, promotional or marketing materials.

2.7 You shall not offer or distribute (either free or for sale by any person) within RAFC any consumer article or commercial product of any nature. For the avoidance of doubt this clause shall not prevent the lawful distribution of text publications in any format which do not infringe clause 2.6 above where both the content and the publication are lawful in all respects and do not in RAFC’s reasonable opinion constitute a threat to public order.

2.8 RAFC reserves the right to refuse admission to, or eject from, Crown Oil Arena any person who fails to comply with the Terms & Conditions of Entry.

2.9 Without prejudice to the representation at clause 1.2 above, and in light of the Season Card holders being grouped together in designated areas, any attempt to gain access to The Crown Oil Arena wearing or carrying apparel (including, without limitation, hats and/or scarves) that demonstrate support for the Away Club, may result in admission being refused or you being ejected from RAFC and in such circumstances no refund or alternative seat will be offered.

3. Use of Season Card

3.1 Subject to clause 3.2, below, Season Cards are issued for your sole use and you shall not sell, dispose of, assign, transfer, lend or otherwise deal with the Season Card or the benefit of it to any other person without the prior written consent of RAFC. Further you shall not use the Season Card for any commercial purpose. The reference to selling the Season Card includes: (a) offering to sell a Season Card (including, without limitation, via any website or online auction site); (b) exposing a Season Card for sale; (c) making a Season Card available for sale by another person; (d) advertising that a Season Card is available for purchase, which for the avoidance of doubt (and by way of example only) means that this Season Card may not be offered as a prize in any promotion or competition; (e) transferring, lending or selling a Season Card to any third party as part of a hospitality or travel package; and (f) giving (or offering to give) a Season Card to a person who pays or agrees to pay for some other goods or services (or offers to do so); all save as expressly authorised by the EFL or RAFC.

3.2 You may only sell or transfer the Season Card to a Guest with the express written consent of RAFC given at RAFC’s absolute discretion, provided that such sale or transfer is in respect of an individual Match and in consideration of no payment or benefit in excess of the face value of a ticket to that Match and provided further that such transfer does not take place during the course of any business or for the purpose of facilitating any third party’s business. Such resale or transfer is hereby provided to be subject to the Terms and Conditions of Entry which will (save for any rights to transfer under this clause) apply to and bind that Guest as if he/she was the original purchaser of the Season Card (and you must inform the Guest of this).

3.3 The unauthorised sale or disposal of a Season Card may amount to a criminal offence under section 166 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994, as amended by the Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006. RAFC will inform the police when it becomes aware that a Season Card has been sold or disposed of illegally and will press for charges to be brought against those breaking this law. If you are convicted of a ticket touting offence, or we reasonably suspect you have committed such an offence, we will notify the PL who may in turn notify other EFL clubs and/or the relevant law enforcement authorities. The information that we share may include your personal details, information about the offence and about ticket purchases (including payment details). We will use this to identify and prevent ticket touting offences and disorder at matches.

3.4 The Season Card will remain the property of RAFC at all times and must be produced together with evidence of your identity if required to do so by any official, steward or employee of RAFC or any police officer. RAFC reserves the right to require the immediate return of the Season Card at any time.

3.5 Any Season Card obtained or used in breach of the Terms & Conditions of Entry shall be automatically void and all rights conferred or evidenced by such Season Card shall be nullified. Any person seeking to use a Season Card in breach of the Terms and Conditions of Entry in order to gain entry to The Crown Oil Arena or remain at a Match may be considered to be a trespasser and may be refused entry to, or ejected from, RAFC in respect of a particular Match and/or may have his/her

3.6 In the event of any Season Card being cancelled, deactivated or withdrawn, in accordance with clause 3.5, no refund shall be payable to the holder in respect of any unexpired portion of the Season Card.

4. Changes to Dates, Refunds & Exchanges

4.1 No guarantees can be given by RAFC that a Match will take place at a particular time or on a particular date. RAFC reserves the right to reschedule any Match without notice and without any liability whatsoever. Your Season Card will enable you to attend the re-arranged Match.

4.1(a) RAFC are not obliged to offer refunds for Season Cards when home matches are not permitted to take place beyond the control of the Club.

4.2 RAFC will have no further liability whatsoever, including (but not limited to) any indirect or consequential loss or damage, loss of enjoyment or travel/accommodation costs.

4.3 The season card allocated to you by RAFC is for the stated seat and may not be able to be exchanged.

5. Lost or Stolen Season Cards

5.1 In order to gain admission to RAFC, the Season Card must be presented in its entirety at every Match.

5.2 In the event that you forget your Season Card in respect of any individual Match, RAFC shall not be obliged to admit you or issue any other form of ticket for that Match. If a match-day duplicate ticket is issued, RAFC may require payment of a non-refundable administration charge.

5.3 If a Season Card is damaged, lost, stolen or destroyed, a duplicate Season Card shall be issued by RAFC as soon as reasonably practicable after the payment of a non-refundable administration charge. In making its decision, RAFC shall be entitled to call for all reasonable evidence of the need for a replacement Season Card, for example but not limited to a police crime reference number in the event that a Season Card is stolen, or a copy of the damaged Season Card.

5.4 Should any Season Card when applied for not arrive in the post after purchase, you will be required to sign a document confirming this and undertaking to immediately return the original Season Card to RAFC should it come into your possession at any time. There will be no charge for the issue of a duplicate Season Card in this instance.

6. Change of Address

If you change your address during the season you must notify RAFC as soon as reasonably practicable.

7. Cancellation, Deactivation and Withdrawal of Season Card

7.1 Without prejudice to clauses 3.5 and 3.6 or any other remedies it may have, RAFC shall have the right in the case of any serious or persistent breach of the Terms & Conditions of Entry to cancel, deactivate and/or withdraw your Season Card. In the event of such cancellation, deactivation and/or withdrawal no refund will be paid in respect of any unexpired portion of the Season Card. Without prejudice to the general nature of the above the following actions shall constitute serious breach of the

Terms & Conditions of Entry:

7.1.1 smoking inside the stadium (including, for the avoidance of doubt, the smoking of electronic cigarettes and any other vapour omitting substitutes);

7.1.2 being (or appearing to be) drunk or intoxicated.

7.1.3 persistent standing in seated areas whilst the Match is in progress.

7.1.4 the sale or transfer (save as permitted) of a Season Card to any person.

7.1.5 the possession of a banner or flag that bears material or slogans that are offensive, obscene, abusive, or racist.

7.1.6 the supply of any misleading or incorrect information in any application;

7.1.7 the use of foul, obscene, abusive and/or racist language and/or gestures;

7.1.8 the throwing of any object within RAFC that may cause injury or damage to people or property without lawful authority or excuse;

7.1.9 the chanting of anything of an indecent or racist nature;

7.1.10 fighting or engaging in and/or inciting violence;

7.1.11 bringing into RAFC (or using within RAFC): illegal drugs, other illegal substances, fireworks, firecrackers, smoke canisters, air horns, flares, laser devices, bottles, glass vessels or any item that might be used as a weapon or compromise public safety;

7.1.12 entering the playing area or any adjacent area to which spectators are not generally admitted without lawful authority or excuse;

7.1.13 any misrepresentation in relation to clause 1.2 above;

7.1.14 breach of the terms of any Membership;

7.1.15 any breach of clauses 2.4, 2.5 or 2.6 above; and

7.1.16 any failure to pay or default of payment in respect of any sums owing to RAFC (or any third party) in respect of any Season Card.

7.2 RAFC may conduct security searches where it has reason to believe that any of the breaches set down in 7.1 has either occurred or may occur.

7.3 If a Season Card holder is not 16 years old or over, his/her parent(s) and/or guardian(s) are responsible for his/her actions, conduct and compliance with the Terms and Conditions of Entry.

7.4 In accordance with RAFC’s safeguarding policy, children aged 12 years or under are not permitted to purchase a Season Cards unless accompanied by his/her parent(s) and/or guardian(s) and must be accompanied by his/her parent(s) and/or guardian(s) at all times whilst in The Crown Oil Arena.

7.5 In the event that your Season Card is cancelled, deactivated and/or withdrawn RAFC reserves the right to exclude you from any membership scheme maintained or organised by RAFC and/or to disqualify you from applying for any Match ticket or season card at its discretion, and to notify FIFA, UEFA, The Football Association, the English Football League and/or other football clubs of such exclusion and/or disqualification (and the reason(s) for such exclusion and/or disqualification).

8. Filming, Photography & Taping

All Season Card holders who enter The crown Oil Arena acknowledge that photographic images and/or video recordings (and/or stills taken from video recordings) may be taken of them and may also be used in televised coverage of the game and/or for promotional or marketing purposes by RAFC, the EFL or others, and use of a Season Card to enter The Crown Oil Arena constitutes consent to such use.

9. Exclusion of Liability

9.1 RAFC hereby excludes any liability for loss, injury or damage to persons/property in or around RAFC except in respect of death or personal injury resulting from any negligence of RAFC or any other liability of RAFC which cannot be excluded under applicable law.

9.2 Neither the EFL nor RAFC shall be responsible for any interruptions and/or restrictions to the view of the Match caused by virtue of (a) the position of the seat and/or (b) the actions of other spectators.

10. General

10.1 RAFC reserves the right to change these Conditions of Issue from time to time, and shall notify you of such changes if they materially affect your rights as a consumer.

10.2 You consent to RAFC holding and processing data relating to you for administrative and legal purposes. The personal data that you provide to RAFC shall be processed, stored and transferred in accordance with the terms of RAFC privacy policy available upon request to RAFC.

10.3 The invalidity or partial invalidity of any provision of these Conditions of Issue shall not prejudice or affect the remainder of these Conditions of Issue, which shall continue in full force and effect. If any invalid, unenforceable or illegal provision of these Conditions of Issue would be valid, enforceable and legal if some part of it were deleted, the provision shall apply with the minimum modification necessary to make it legal, valid and enforceable.

10.4 RAFC failure to exercise, or delay in exercising, any right, power or remedy provided by these Conditions of Issue or by law shall not constitute a waiver of that right, power or remedy.

10.5 The Terms and Conditions of Entry constitute the entire agreement between RAFC and the Season Card holder and neither RAFC nor the Season Card holder shall have any claim or remedy in respect of any statement, representation, warranty or undertaking made by or on behalf of any other party in relation to the Terms and Conditions of Entry which is not set out therein.

10.6 Notwithstanding any other provision in these Conditions of Issue and with the exception of FIFA, UEFA, The FA, and the English Football League, no other person other than you or RAFC has any rights under the Contracts (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999 to rely on or enforce any term of these Conditions of Issue. Nothing in these terms of conditions shall affect any right or remedy of a third party that exists or is available other than as a result of the aforementioned Act.

10.7 These Conditions of Issue and any dispute or claim arising out of or in connection with them shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of England and Wales. The parties hereby submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Courts of England and Wales in relation to any dispute or claim arising out of or in connection with these Conditions of Issue (including in relation to any non-contractual disputes or claims).

11. Definitions

In the Conditions of Issue the following words and phrases shall have the following meanings:

“Away Club” means the football club playing against RAFC.

“Conditions of Issue” means these terms and conditions governing the issue and use of a Season Card.

“Ground” means The Crown Oil Arena and all other locations owned, occupied or utilised by RAFC.

“Ground Regulations” means those ground regulations issued by RAFC from time to time that set out the terms and conditions upon which spectators are granted entry to The Crown Oil Arena.

“Guest” means a relative, friend, colleague and/or companion to the disabled who would be entitled to purchase a Season Card under the Terms & Conditions of Entry.

“Match” means any English Football League fixture (FA Cup, EFL Trophy and pre-season games) in which RAFC participates and that takes place at The crown Oil Arena during the relevant season.

“Membership” means any rules and regulations agreed in relation to your participation in RAFC’s membership scheme which can be found at rochdaleafc.co.uk

“Season Card” means a season card or any season card member (Your Card/Exiles Card (and/or any rights arising out of or in connection with any of the foregoing) for admission to Matches.

“Terms & Conditions of Entry” means each of the rules and regulations of FIFA, UEFA, The Football Association and the English Football League (EFL); Boundary Park Regulations; and the Conditions of Issue.

YOUR SEASON CARD, ACCESS CONTROL

If the unlikely situation occurs where there is a technical fault with your card, you will be asked to return to the ticket office who will provide you with a paper ticket to gain entry. 

Fans are reminded that to attempt to enter The Crown Oil Arena using someone else’s card, without RAFC’s permission or under the incorrect price band, is a fraudulent offence.

Anyone who would like to upgrade their season card must do by close of business the day before matchday.

Anyone found to be attempting to enter the stadium under the incorrect price band on a matchday will be asked to report to the Ticket Office, pay the full cost for the correct price band season or matchday ticket. Until this process is complete, you will not be granted access to The crown Oil Arena. 

GROUND REGULATIONS

Notice: Entry to RAFC is expressly subject to acceptance by the visitor of these Ground Regulations and the rules and regulations of FIFA, UEFA, The Football Association and the English Football League (EFL) in respect of the relevant competition. Boundary Park Regulations incorporate RAFC’s Customer Charter (if any). Entry to The crown Oil Arena shall constitute acceptance of The crown Oil Arena Regulations.

“Ground” means this football stadium and all locations owned, occupied or utilised by RAFC.

“Club” means Rochdale AFC.

“Match” means any association football match, including pre-season friendlies (or any part or aspect of such a match) taking place at The Crown Oil Arena.

“Material” means any audio, visual and/or audio-visual material and/or any information or data.

“Football Authority” means each of the English Football League (EFL), The Football Association, FIFA, UEFA and any other relevant governing body of association football.

1 Notwithstanding possession of any ticket RAFC, any police officer or authorised steward may refuse entry to (or eject from) The Crown Oil Arena any person:

1.1 that fails (or in RAFC’s reasonable opinion is likely to fail) to comply with these Ground Regulations or any reasonable instruction issued by a police officer or authorised steward or officer of RAFC; and/or

1.2 whose presence within The Crown Oil Arena is, or could (in RAFC’s reasonable opinion), constitute a source of danger, nuisance, or annoyance to any other person.

2 On no account will admission be granted to a person who is the subject of a current Banning Order under the Football Spectators Act 1989 (as amended) or has been convicted of ticket touting offences under the Criminal Justice and Public Order 1994 (as amended).

3 RAFC excludes to the maximum extent permitted by law any liability for loss, injury or damage to persons/property in or around Rochdale AFC.

4 No guarantees can be given by RAFC that a Match will take place at a particular time or on a particular date and RAFC reserves the right to reschedule the Match without notice and without any liability whatsoever, save only to the extent provided pursuant to paragraph 5.

5 In the event of the postponement or abandonment of the Match, refunds (if any) will be made in accordance with RAFC’s Customer Charter. RAFC will have no further liability whatsoever, including (but not limited to) any indirect or consequential loss or damage, such as (but not limited to) loss of enjoyment or travel costs.

6 All persons seeking entrance to Rochdale AFC acknowledge RAFC’s right to search any person entering The crown Oil Arena and to refuse entry to or eject from The crown Oil Arena any person refusing to submit to such a search. 

7 The following articles must not be brought within The Crown Oil Arena – knives, fireworks, smoke canisters, air-horns, flares, weapons, dangerous or hazardous items, laser devices, bottles, glass vessels, cans, poles and any article that might be used as a weapon and/or compromise public safety. Any person in possession of such items will be refused entry to The crown Oil Arena.

8 Further, you may not bring into The crown Oil Arena:

8.1 any sponsorship, promotional or marketing materials save in respect of official club merchandise and/or other football related clothing worn in good faith;

8.2 any flags or banners larger than those maximum dimensions permitted by RAFC from time to time (or, in the absence of such stipulations, 2 metres x 1 metre) and/or of an offensive nature;

8.3 nor may you offer (either free or for sale by any person) any goods (including literature) of any nature, without the express written approval of RAFC’S management.

9 The use of threatening behaviour, foul or abusive language is strictly forbidden and will result in arrest and/or ejection from The Crown Oil Arena. RAFC may impose a ban for one or more Matches.

10 Racial, homophobic, or discriminatory abuse, chanting or harassment is strictly forbidden and will result in arrest and/or ejection from The Crown Oil Arena. RAFC may impose a ban for one or more Matches.

11 The following acts are offences under the Football (Offences) Act 1991 (as amended):

11.1 The throwing of any object within The Crown Oil Arena without lawful authority or excuse.

11.2 The chanting of anything of an indecent or racialist nature.

11.3 The entry onto the playing area or any adjacent area to which spectators are not generally admitted without lawful authority or excuse. Conviction may result in a Banning Order being made.

12 All persons entering The Crown Oil Arena may only occupy the seat allocated to them by their ticket and must not move from any one part of The Crown Oil Arena to another without the express permission or instruction of any steward, officer of RAFC and/or any police officer.

13 Nobody may stand in any seating area whilst play is in progress. Persistent standing in seated areas whilst play is in progress is strictly forbidden and may result in ejection from The Crown Oil Arena.

14 The obstruction of gangways, access ways, exits and entrances, stairways and like places is strictly forbidden. Nobody entering The Crown Oil Arena shall be permitted to climb any structures within The Crown Oil Arena.

15 All English Football League stadia are smoke-free and smoking or the use of electronic cigarettes is not permitted inside The crown Oil Arena.

16 Mobile telephones and other mobile devices are permitted within The crown Oil Arena PROVIDED THAT (i) they are used for personal and private use only (which, for the avoidance of doubt and by way of example only, shall not include the capturing, logging, recording, transmitting, playing, issuing, showing, or any other communication of any Material for any commercial purposes); and (ii) no Material that is captured, logged, recorded, transmitted, played, issued, shown or otherwise communicated by a mobile telephone or other mobile device may be published or otherwise made available to any third parties including, without limitation, via social networking sites.

17 Under the Sporting Events (Control of Alcohol etc.) Act 1985 (as amended), the following are offences for which a person can be arrested by a police officer and conviction could result in a Banning Order being made:

17.1 Attempting to enter The Crown Oil Arena or being inside The crown Oil Arena whilst drunk;

17.2 Being in possession of any intoxicating liquor, or bottle, can or other portable container and which could cause damage or personal injury, when entering The crown Oil Arena or in a public area of The Crown Oil Arena from which the event can be directly viewed.

18 Any individual who has entered any part of The crown Oil Arena designated for the use of any group of supporters to which he does not belong may be ejected from The Crown Oil Arena either for the purposes of his own safety or for any other reason.

19 Save as set out in paragraph 16 above, no person (other than a person who holds an appropriate licence) may capture, log, record, transmit, play, issue, show or otherwise communicate (by digital or other means) any Material in relation to the Match, any players or other persons present in The crown Oil Arena and/or The crown Oil Arena, nor may they bring into The crown Oil Arena or use within Boundary Pa (or provide to, facilitate or otherwise assist another person to use within The Crown Oil Arena) any equipment or technology which is capable of capturing, logging, recording, transmitting, playing, issuing, showing or otherwise communicating (by digital or other means) any such Material.

20 The copyright, database rights and any other intellectual property rights in and to all Material that you produce at The Crown Oil Arena in relation to the Match, any players or other persons present in The Crown Oil Arena and/or The Crown Oil Arena (whether produced in breach of paragraph 19 above, or pursuant to paragraph 16 above, or otherwise) is hereby assigned  (including by way of present assignment of future copyright pursuant to section 91 of the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988) to RAFC and the EFL. You further agree (if and whenever required to do so by RAFC and/or the EFL) to promptly execute all instruments and do all things necessary to vest the right, title and interest in such rights to RAFC and the EFL absolutely and with full title guarantee.

21 No goods (including literature) of any nature may be offered either free or for sale by any person within The Crown Oil Arena without the express written permission of RAFC.

22 Tickets are not transferable and may not be offered for sale without the prior written permission of RAFC or otherwise in accordance with the relevant ticket terms and conditions. Any tickets that are transferred are transferred subject to these Ground Regulations. Any tickets offered for sale may be confiscated by any steward, officer of RAFC or any police officer. RAFC reserves the right to refuse admission to or eject from The Crown Oil Arena, and/or “blacklist”, any person who has offered for sale or transferred his/her ticket in contravention of the relevant ticket terms and conditions (and/or the holder of any ticket that has been transferred in contravention of the relevant ticket terms and conditions). Tickets remain the property of RAFC at all times.

23 CCTV cameras are in use around and in the Crown Oil Arena. Body worn video cameras recording video and/or audio may also be used as appropriate, to record images or audio which identifies you as an individual, for example to record prohibited behaviours as referenced in paragraphs 9 and 10. RAFC may itself use or pass to the police or any Football Authority or other clubs, any recordings for use in any proceedings.

24 At all times whilst present in The Crown Oil Arena, persons must comply with any and all instructions of any steward or officer of RAFC and/or any police officer. Failure to comply with any instruction may lead to immediate ejection from The crown Oil Arena.

25 By entering The Crown Oil Arena, all persons are acknowledging that photographic images and/or audio, visual and/or audio-visual recordings and/or feeds  (and/or stills taken therefrom ) may be taken of them and may also be used, by way of example and without limitation, in televised coverage of the game and/or for promotional, training, editorial or marketing purposes by RAFC, the EFL or others  (including commercial partners and accredited media organisations) and entry into the Crown Oil Arena constitutes  consent to such use. You further acknowledge that photographic images and/or audio, visual and/or audio-visual recordings and/or feeds (and/or stills taken therefrom) may be used (by RAFC or by a third party, such as a law enforcement body) to identify you as an individual, where permitted by data protection laws, for the purposes of preventing or detecting crime, or any breach of these Ground Regulations. Information about RAFC’S use of your personal data will be brought to your attention by RAFC (see for example any applicable privacy policy, signage and/or other forms of announcement in or around The Crown Oil Arena). For further information please contact RAFC.

26 All ticket holders agree that the Matches for which the tickets have been purchased are public, and that their appearance and actions inside and in the perimeter of The Crown Oil Arena where a Match occurs are public in nature, and that they shall have no expectation of privacy with regard to their actions or conduct at Matches.

27 Further to paragraph 25, if such person is under 18 years of age, the parent, guardian, or responsible adult who is accompanying them into The Crown Oil Arena shall be deemed to have provided consent on their behalf.

28 Refused entry to (or ejection from) The Crown Oil Arena may lead to further action by RAFC including, but not limited to, the withdrawal of any season card (without reimbursement), Club Membership and other benefits.

Click HERE to view our Admissions Policy.

The Club has put in place a range of processes to ensure the safety of all supporters at our matches, however it is vitally important that all attendees play their part in making each event safe and enjoyable and to do so we need your continued support and co-operation. Supporters are therefore kindly reminded of the requirement to always adhere to this Code of Conduct, and follow all safety requirements, to assist Club staff and stewards, and to help protect you and your fellow fans. 

• Plan your journey in advance and arrive at the stadium in plenty of time. We ask supporters to arrive between 1:30pm and 2:30pm to ensure you have enough time to get to your seat.
• Please ensure that you bring your match tickets with you on matchday. You can either download the ticket as a QR code to your phone wallet or print at home using the attached PDF copy. 
• Please avoid bringing large bags into the stadium and only do so if absolutely necessary, to avoid slowing down the stadium entry processes.
• We advise supporters to bring ID with them as spot checks will be undertaken.
• Upon entering the stadium, please pay close attention to signage, floor markings and instructions issued by stewards or via the club’s PA system, this will help get you where you need to be in the most efficient way.
• When using toilet facilities, please follow all guidance, be patient and considerate towards other users, and wait your turn to avoid toilets areas becoming crowded. Where possible, try to avoid peak times (such as half-time and the end of the game).
• Always maintain good hand hygiene around the stadium – use the sanitiser dispensers provided and avoid touching your face or handles and railings whenever possible.
• Please remain in your seat for the full game if possible – and avoid unnecessary movement. If you need to move, wait until gangways are clear, avoid face-to-face contact and follow stewards’ instructions.
• We all hope we will be celebrating a goal but please remember to maintain safe distances to other supporters and be respectful and mindful to those around you whose individual circumstances may differ from your own.
• Please refrain from touching the match ball if it is kicked out of play and into the stands. A member of Club staff will collect the ball in order to sanitise it and return it to the field of play.
• Supporters are kindly asked not to approach any of the Club’s or visiting Club’s players or coaching staff at any time, as players and staff will not be able to sign autographs or pose for photographs.
• Please be patient when leaving the stadium and listen to the advice from stewards. It will take longer than normal to leave due to the procedures in place to allow supporters to exit the stadium safely and efficiently.
• The Club reserves the right to eject any supporter that fails to comply with this Code of Conduct and reminds all fans that stadium capacities may ultimately be negatively impacted because of any safety issues.

Thank you for your support and full co-operation. Please stay alert, follow these guidelines, and help us all enjoy the match safely.

Our Commitment

Rochdale AFC is committed to providing a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment for all supporters, staff, players, match officials and visitors.

Supporters are expected to comply with the Club’s Ground Regulations, Ticket Terms and Conditions, and all applicable laws. When behaviour falls below these standards, the Club may take action to protect the safety, wellbeing and enjoyment of everyone attending matches and events.

The Club will seek to ensure that any action taken is fair, proportionate, transparent and consistent, with each case considered on its individual merits. This approach is based on the principles set out in the EFL Supporter Sanctioning Guidance.

Types of Behaviour That May Result in Action

The following examples are not exhaustive but may result in sanctions being considered.

Level One Breaches

Examples include:

• Smoking or vaping in prohibited areas.
• Alcohol-related misconduct not involving police action.
• Persistent standing in seated areas or standing on seats.
• Anti-social behaviour.
• Excessive foul, abusive or offensive language.
• Behaviour that compromises the safety of others.
• Failure to follow reasonable instructions from stewards or Club staff.
• Minor acts of damage to Club property.

These behaviours will normally be dealt with through education, warnings or lower-level sanctions.

Level Two Breaches

Examples include:

• Throwing missiles or objects.
• Pitch incursions or pitch encroachment.
• Use or possession of pyrotechnics.
• Use or possession of illegal drugs.
• Deliberate property damage.
• Violent, aggressive or threatening behaviour.
• Serious disorder or anti-social behaviour.
• Discriminatory, abusive or hateful conduct, including online activity connected to Rochdale AFC.
• Breach of an existing Club sanction.
• Serious ticketing offences or fraudulent ticket use.

Level Two breaches will normally result in more significant sanctions and may also be reported to the police or other authorities where appropriate.

Potential Sanctions

The Club reserves the right to apply one or more of the following sanctions depending on the seriousness of the incident.

Safety Standards Letter

For minor concerns relating to supporter conduct, the Club may issue a written reminder highlighting expected standards of behaviour.

Written Warning

A formal written warning may be issued where behaviour is unacceptable but does not justify exclusion from matches.

Acceptable Behaviour Contract

The Club may require a supporter to enter into an Acceptable Behaviour Contract setting out expectations for future conduct. Failure to comply with the agreement may lead to further sanctions.

Educational or Restorative Measures

Where appropriate, supporters may be required or invited to participate in:

• Educational programmes.
• Equality, diversity and inclusion workshops.
• Restorative justice meetings.
• Behavioural improvement initiatives.

The Club believes education can be an effective means of preventing future incidents and improving supporter behaviour.

Suspended Club Ban

The Club may impose a suspended ban where a supporter has committed misconduct but an opportunity for behavioural improvement is considered appropriate.

Any further breach during the suspension period may result in the ban being activated.

Club Ban

A supporter may be prohibited from attending matches or entering Club premises.

Depending on the circumstances, a Club Ban may:

• Apply to home matches only.
• Apply to both home and away fixtures.
• Apply to all competitions.

Extend to other Club premises, including the Club Shop, Ticket Office and other Club-controlled facilities.

Club bans may be issued for fixed periods or, in the most serious cases, as an indefinite ban subject to periodic review.

Temporary Suspensions

In serious cases where the Club believes there is an immediate risk to safety or further misconduct, a temporary suspension may be imposed while investigations are ongoing.

Temporary suspensions will only be used where considered necessary and proportionate.

Investigations

Before imposing significant sanctions, the Club will normally conduct an investigation which may include consideration of:

• Steward reports.
• CCTV footage.
• Witness statements.
• Photographic or video evidence.
• Matchday reports.
• Social media evidence where relevant.

The Club will determine matters on the balance of probabilities where criminal proceedings are not involved.

Right to Respond

Where a Club Ban is being considered, supporters will normally be given the opportunity to respond to the allegations and provide relevant information before a final decision is reached.

The Club may convene a Supporter Sanction Panel to review the evidence and determine an appropriate outcome.

Appeals

Supporters have the right to appeal against sanctions imposed by the Club.

Appeals must:

• Be submitted in writing.
• State the grounds of appeal.
• Include any supporting evidence.
• Appeals will be considered by individuals who were not involved in the original investigation or decision-making process.

Discrimination and Hate Crime

Rochdale AFC operates a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination, abuse and hate-related conduct.

Any supporter found to have engaged in discriminatory behaviour, whether within the stadium, at away matches, or online in connection with football activity, may face significant sanctions, including exclusion from all Club activities, referral to the police, and participation in educational programmes.

Football Banning Order

Where a supporter becomes subject to a Football Banning Order, the Club may automatically apply corresponding restrictions to ticketing accounts and stadium access for the duration of the order. The supporter will be notified by the Club of any action taken.

Data Sharing

Where appropriate and lawful, Rochdale AFC may share information relating to serious incidents with the police, football authorities and other relevant organisations to help prevent crime, disorder and safety risks.

Any personal information will be processed in accordance with data protection legislation and the Club’s Privacy Notice.

Rochdale AFC reserves the right to amend this policy at any time and to take action outside of the examples listed above where behaviour is considered to be harmful to the Club, its supporters, staff, players, officials or reputation. Each case will be considered on its own individual merits.

Update: August 2026

Rochdale AFC works across the borough of Rochdale to be inclusive and anti-discriminatory and works closely with the EFL, The FA and Kick it Out.

Football Clubs should be accessible to everyone and so it is important that the right culture is promoted. Rochdale AFC want to ensure that the Club is a place that is child and family friendly, free from discrimination and unfair behaviour and will do everything they can in-order to achieve these objectives.

Rochdale AFC has achieved the required standard for the EFL’s Inclusion and Anti-Discrimination Code of Practice and undergoing a complete review of all areas of its business.

Rochdale AFC is committed to promoting equality by treating people fairly and with respect; by recognising inequalities exist, by taking steps to address them and by providing access and opportunities for all members of the community. It is about changing the culture and structure of our Football Club to ensure it becomes equally accessible to everyone in society.

Rochdale AFC’s commitment is to eliminate discrimination on the basis of gender, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, gender reassignment, race (ethnic or national origin) pregnancy or maternity, religion or belief, disability or age (the protected characteristics). We will ensure that we treat people fairly and with respect and that we will provide access and opportunities for all members of the community to take part in, and enjoy our activities.

Rochdale AFC will not tolerate harassment, bullying, abuse or victimisation of any individual, which for the purposes of this statement and the actions and sanctions applicable is regarded as discrimination, whether physical or verbal. This includes any form of ‘Hate Crime’ which is a crime targeted at a person because of hostility or prejudice towards that person’s disability, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation or transgender identity. The Club will work to ensure that such behaviour is met with the appropriate action in whatever context it occurs including inappropriate posts through social media.

Rochdale AFC is committed to promoting equality of opportunity for all staff and job applicants and requires all staff to abide and adhere to the equality legislation, Equality Act 2010, as well as any amendments to this act.

Rochdale AFC commits itself to the immediate investigation of any claims, when it is brought to their attention, of discrimination on the above grounds and where such is found to be the case, a requirement that the practice stop and sanctions imposed as appropriate.

The content of this statement applies equally to the treatment of our staff, customers, supporters, clients and suppliers and is fully supported by the Board of Rochdale AFC.

If you have a complaint or witness an incident of discrimination, harassment or bullying we would ask you to report it directly to Laura Thomas, Board Equality Champion, and/or Nicola Toolan, Club Safeguarding/Inclusion Lead.

DISORDERLY CONDUCT

Disorderly Conduct means;

(i) Conduct which stirs up or sustains, or is likely or designed to stir up or sustain, hatred or ill will against or towards a group or persons based on their membership or presumed membership of a group defined by reference to a Category or against an individual who is or is presumed to be of the following categories:

• Gender, colour, race, nationality (including citizenship) or ethnic or national origin
• Membership or presumed membership, of a religious group or of a social or cultural group with perceived religious affiliation
• Sexual orientation
• Transgender identity (Gender Reassignment)
• Disability

by the person or persons engaged in the Conduct to be a member of such group.

(ii) Using threatening, abusive, or insulting words or conduct

(iii) Displaying any writing or other thing which is threatening, abusive or insulting, or

(iv) Using words or conduct or displaying wiring or other thing which indicates support for, or affiliation to, or celebration of, or opposition to an organisation or group proscribed in terms of the Crime & Policing Act 2026, and any successive or replacement legislation thereto:

Sanctions;

Any Person committing Disorderly conduct and/or any person who assists another or others to commit Disorderly conduct, may be subject to any, or a combination of the following;

• Refusal of entry to the stadium
• Removal from the stadium
• Suspension from attending matches of Rochdale AFC
• Indefinite ban from attending matches of Rochdale AFC
• Be the subject of a report to the Police and/or any prosecuting authorities which may result in possible criminal proceedings

Please also refer to point 10 of our ground regulations.

Updated: August 2026

The EFL is responsible for setting the standards, values and expectations of all Clubs in relation to equality, inclusion and diversity. Football is for everyone; it belongs to, and should be enjoyed by anyone who wants to participate in it, whether as a player, official, staff member or spectator. 

The aim of Rochdale AFC Equality Policy is to promote our own equality objectives and in doing so, help to ensure that everyone is treated fairly and with respect. All Rochdale AFC representatives should abide and adhere to this Policy and to the requirements of the Equality Act 2010. In doing so, we are working towards being legally compliant in relation to equality legislation.

Rochdale AFC commitment is to promote inclusion and to confront and eliminate discrimination whether by reason of age, gender, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, marital status or civil partnership race, nationality, ethnicity (race), religion or belief, ability or disability, pregnancy and maternity and to encourage equal opportunities. These are known as ‘protected characteristics’ under the Equality Act 2010.

This Policy is fully supported by the Board of Rochdale AFC and CEO Laura Thomas is responsible for the implementation of this policy.

Rochdale AFC will ensure that it treats everyone fairly and with respect and that it will provide access and opportunities for all members of the community to take part in, and enjoy, its activities. Every staff member, Board member, official, spectator, fan and visiting teams an be assured of an environment in which their rights, dignity and individual worth are respected, and in particular that they are able to work and watch football in an environment without the threat of intimidation, victimisation, harassment or abuse.

Complaints and compliance
Rochdale AFC regards all of the forms of discriminatory behaviour, including (but not limited to) behaviour described in the Appendix as unacceptable, and is concerned to ensure that individuals feel able to raise any bona fide grievance or complaint related to such behaviour without fear of being penalised for doing so. Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken against any employee, member or volunteer, spectator or fan who is found, after a full investigation, to have violated the Equality Policy.

Positive Action and Training
Rochdale AFC is committed to equality inclusion and anti-discrimination as part of The EFL’s Code of Practice. Rochdale AFC will commit to a programme of raising awareness and educating, investigating concerns and applying relevant and proportionate sanctions, campaigning, widening diversity and representation and promoting diverse role models, which we believe are all key actions to promote inclusion and eradicate discrimination within football. This Equality Policy will be reviewed and updated, if required, on an annual basis.

APPENDIX – Relevant legislation and forms of unacceptable discrimination

Legal rights
Discrimination has been legally defined through a series of legislative acts, including the Race Relations Act, the Sex Discrimination Act, the Disability Discrimination Act and the Equality Act 2006.

In April 2010, the Equality Act 2010 received Royal Assent. The Equality Act 2010 is a new law which harmonises where possible, and in some cases extends, protection from discrimination. It applies throughout the UK and came into force in October 2010.

Discrimination refers to unfavourable treatment on the basis of particular characteristics, which are known as the ‘protected characteristics’.

Under the Equality Act 2010, the protected characteristics are defined as age (employment only until 2012), disability, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status (employment only), pregnancy and maternity, race (which includes ethnic or national origin, colour or nationality), religion or belief, sex (gender) and sexual orientation.

Under the Equality Act 2010, individuals are protected from discrimination ‘on grounds of’ a protected characteristic . This means that individuals will be protected if they have a characteristic, are assumed to have it, associate with someone who has it or with someone who is assumed to have it.

Forms of discrimination and discriminatory behaviour include the following:

Direct discrimination
Direct discrimination can be described as less favourable treatment on the grounds of one of the protected characteristics.

Indirect discrimination
Indirect discrimination occurs when a provision, criterion or practice is applied to an individual or group that would put persons of a particular characteristic at a particular disadvantage compared with other persons.

Discrimination arising from disability
When a disabled person is treated unfavourably because of something connected with their disability and this unfavourable treatment cannot be justified, this is unlawful. This type of discrimination only relates to disability.

Harassment
Harassment is defined as unwanted conduct relating to a protected characteristic that has the purpose or effect of violating a person’s dignity, or which creates an intimidating or hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment for that person.

Victimisation
It is unlawful to treat a person less favourably because he or she has made allegations or brought proceedings under the anti-discrimination legislation, or because they have helped another person to do so. To do so would constitute victimisation.

Bullying
Bullying is defined as a form of personal harassment involving the misuse of power, influence or position to persistently criticise, humiliate or undermine an individual.

If you have a complaint or witness an incident of discrimination, harassment or bullying we would ask you to report it directly to Laura Thomas, Board Equality Champion, and/or Nicola Toolan, Club Safeguarding/Inclusion Lead.

Rochdale AFC endorses the principle of Equality and is committed to ensure that everyone who wishes to be involved with Rochdale AFC, regardless of their role, current or potential:

• Have a genuine and equal opportunity to participate to the full extent of their own ambitions and abilities, regardless of their age, sex, gender identity, disability, marital or civil partnership, status, pregnancy or maternity, religion, race, social economic status, or sexual orientation; and
• Can be assured of an environment in which their rights and dignity and individual worth are respected and valued, and in particular that they are able to be involved and participate without the threat of discrimination, intimidation, victimisation, bullying, harassment, or abuse.

Click here to view our Ground Regulations Policy

• Introduction

• This policy outlines the process and procedure for employees to raise their concerns if they have reason to believe that wrongdoing is being perpetrated by others at the club. Rochdale AFC is committed to openness, probability and accountability. Whistleblowing is viewed by the club as a positive act that can make a valuable contribution to the club’s efficiency and long-term success.

1.2       Whistleblowing occurs when a person raises a concern about dangerous, illegal activity or any wrongdoing within their organisation. It can involve sharing potentially vital information about health and safety risks, possible fraud, harm of children or vulnerable adults, covering up for someone and other serious activities.

1.3       This policy applies to all our employees, players and young people, employees of contractors working for us (e.g., agency staff, builders and drivers), employees of suppliers and those providing services under a contract or other agreement with us, voluntary workers working with us and people who in the course of their work come into contact with our employees.

• Rochdale AFC wants to encourage and enable employees to raise their concerns at an early stage and to do so in the right way. This includes any occasion when an employee is concerned that their colleagues are acting unlawfully and / or where there are concerns that colleagues are breaching the club’s Code of Conduct and its other operational or financial rules. It is not disloyal to colleagues or to the club to make a disclosure. It is essential issues are addressed immediately, so employees should ‘blow the whistle’ as early as possible to prevent any real damage being done.

• This policy is approved by the Board of Directors where additional support is available. It explains what Rochdale AFC wants employees to do if they have concerns, clarifies their rights and responsibilities, identifies the steps which employees can take and puts this into the context of the Public Disclosure Act 1998 and the Employment Rights Act 2026.

• Although this policy provides guidance on how issues should be raised with the club, it does not preclude any employee from reporting an issue with the police in conjunction with the whistleblowing process, where it is believed that criminal activity is involved.

• Other procedures exist to register a grievance about an employee’s own employment. If an employee has an individual complaint relating to their employment, for example, their contract of employment, pay or conditions, this should be raised under the club’s Grievance Policy.

• This policy is non-contractual and as such we may review, amend or withdraw this policy from time to time in line with changes to employment legislation or organisational needs.

• Principles

2.1       We want all employees to understand how to report issues and know who to report them to; secure in the knowledge that their concerns will be treated seriously, dealt with sensitively and with due confidentiality. Employees will be given full support from senior management and the club will do all it can to help employees throughout the investigation.

• How employees can raise a concern

3.1       The first step depends on the seriousness and sensitivity of the issues and who is thought to be involved. Whenever possible, employees should normally raise concerns with their immediate manager or superior. If an employee believes that management is involved, they then should approach The Head Of Safeguarding followed by the CEO and the Board of Directors. If the complaint is against the CEO then they should contact the Chair of the Governors c/o the Clerk to the Corporation. Complaints against the Governing Body should also be addressed to the Clerk to the Corporation.

3.2       Employees will not be expected to prove the wrongdoing, but will need to demonstrate to the person contacted that there are sufficient grounds for concern.

3.3       Concerns should be raised in writing.

3.4       If an employee does not feel able to put the concern in writing, they can telephone or meet one of Appropriate Officers at the club. They are used to working in complete confidence and are trained to listen carefully.

3.5       Alternatively, advice and guidance on how matters of concern may be pursued can be obtained from the appropriate officer. Within the club these are;

3.6       The final route is to invite a trade union or a professional association to raise the matter through our whistleblowing procedure on the employee’s behalf.

4.0 How employees are safeguarded when raising a concern

4.1       This policy has been written to take account of the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998 which protects workers making disclosures about certain matters of concern, when those disclosures are made in accordance with the Act’s provisions.

4.2       The Act makes it unlawful for the club to dismiss anyone or allow them to be victimised on the basis that they have made an appropriate lawful disclosure in accordance with the Act.

4.3       The Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998 and Employment Rights Act 2026 clearly define what types of disclosure qualify employees for protection against dismissal and detrimental treatment by your employer. These are known as ‘protected disclosures.’

4.4       The following qualify as a protected disclosure:

• Criminal offences (Section 43B(1)(a), ERA 1996).
• Breach of any legal obligation (Section 43B(1)(b), ERA 1996).
• Miscarriages of justice (Section 43B(1)(c), ERA 1996).
• Danger to the health and safety of any individual (Section 43B(1)(d), ERA 1996).
• The deliberate concealing of information about any of the above (Section 43B(1)(f), ERA 1996).

4.5       A disclosure will also be protected if the information disclosed is of a nature that shows that any of the above is likely to be deliberately concealed.

Harassment or victimisation

4.6       We will not tolerate harassment or victimisation by those involved with the matters of concern or from others. It will take action to protect employees when they raise a concern in the public interest. Rochdale AFC takes its responsibilities in this seriously as it is responsible as the employer for any detriment caused.

4.7       Due regard and sensitivity will be exercised by all involved in the process to ensure that employees do not suffer detrimental treatment as a result of raising a complaint.

4.8       If employees are already the subject of disciplinary or redundancy procedures, those procedures will not be halted as a result of an employee whistleblowing.

Anonymous Allegations

4.9       This policy as a whole encourages employees to put their name to the allegation.

4.10     Although concerns expressed anonymously are much less powerful, they will be considered taking into account:

• the seriousness of the issues raised;
• the credibility of the concern; and
• the likelihood of confirming the allegation from other, attributable, sources.

4.11     Employees will be unable to be told the outcome of any investigation of a concern which was brought forward anonymously.

Confidentiality

4.12     We will do its best to protect employee identity when they raise a concern and do not want their name to be disclosed.

4.13     It is important to note that the investigation process may ultimately need to reveal the employee as the source of information. On some occasions a statement by the employee may be required as part of the evidence.

Untrue allegations

4.14     If an employee makes an allegation in the public interest and reasonably believed it to be true, but it is not confirmed by the investigation, no action will be taken against the employee.

4.15     If, however, an employee makes malicious or frivolous allegations, or repeated allegations which have no foundation, disciplinary action will be taken against the employee.

5.0 How we will respond

5.1       The action taken will depend on the nature of the concern. The matters raised may:

• be investigated internally;
• be referred to the Police;
• be referred to a external organisation.
• form the subject of an independent inquiry.

5.2       To protect individuals and the club, initial enquiries will be made to decide whether an investigation is appropriate and, if so, what form it should take. Most matters will, initially, be investigated internally. Concerns or allegations which fall within the scope of specific current procedures (for example, child protection or discrimination issues) will normally be dealt with through those routes.

5.3.      Within 10 working days of a concern being received, the cub will write to the employee:

• acknowledging that the concern has been received;
• indicating how it proposes to deal with the matter;
• giving an estimate of how long it will take to provide a final response;
• informing the employee as to whether any initial enquiries have been made; and
• informing the employee as to whether further investigations will take place and, if not, why not.

5.4       Some concerns may be resolved by immediate action without the need for an investigation.

5.5       The amount of contact between the officer(s) considering the issues and the employee will depend on the nature of the matters raised, the potential difficulties involved and the amount and clarity of the information the employee provided. If necessary, further information will be sought.

5.6       When any meeting is arranged with the employee as a whistle blower, they have the right to be accompanied by a trades union or professional association representative, or a colleague who is not involved in the area of work to which the concern relates.

5.7       We will act as necessary to minimise any difficulties which employees may experience as a result of raising a concern. For instance if, later, employees are required to give evidence in criminal or disciplinary proceedings, we will advise the employee directly as to the procedure.

5.8       We accept that employees need to be assured that the matter has been properly addressed so, subject to legal constraints, the employee will receive information about the outcomes of any investigations.

6.0 What employees can do if our response does not resolve their concern

6.1       This policy is intended to provide employees with an avenue to raise concerns and to have them resolved within the club. We hope our investigations and the action arising from them will resolve their concern. If not, and the employee feels it is right to take the matter outside the club. In such circumstances, employees should seek advice from the Senior Safeguarding Manager and to ensure correct procedures are followed and that confidential information is not disclosed.

7.0 The Head Of Safeguarding 

7.1       The Head Of Safeguarding has overall responsibility for the maintenance and operation of this policy. S/he maintains a record of concerns raised and the outcomes (but in a form which does not endanger employee confidentiality).

7.2       Details of all concerns raised and subsequent information will be retained for 10 years. The purpose of this is to ensure that a central record is kept which can be cross referenced with other complaints in order to monitor any patterns of concern and to assist the Chief Executive & Board of Directors in monitoring the effectiveness of this policy.

1          Policy Statement

The Club welcomes comments and complaints from all members of the Club, Academy and Community and from the general public. We use this process to improve our services for stakeholders, fans and the wider community in which we exist.

Rochdale AFC is committed to the continuous improvement of the services it provides. We recognise that, occasionally, mistakes will be made or the service offered will not meet individual’s requirements or expectations. For these reasons it is Club policy that all complaints should be:

• Treated seriously and in an open manner
• Acknowledged immediately, preferably in writing
• Investigated
• Resolved, wherever that is reasonably practicable, within no longer than 13 working weeks
• Used as feedback to improve the service which the Club offers

No complainant bringing a complaint under this procedure will be treated less favourably by any member of staff. If there is evidence to the contrary, the member of staff may be subject to disciplinary proceedings.

2          Scope

The policy applies to all members of the Club Academy and Community but does not replace procedures for, staff grievances and disciplinary action: those procedures should be used where appropriate.

Any situation in which an allegation or concern arises about the conduct of a member of staff or volunteer with a person under the age of 18 or a vulnerable adult defined under the capacity act will be instantly referred to Rochdale Childrens Services/Vulnerable Adults LADO Officer will be managed by the Rochdale Safeguarding children’s Board using their policy for dealing with allegations against a person who works with children/vulnerable adults. 

Allegations and concerns will be referred to the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) within 24 hours the allegation being made.

In the first instance the process is to make contact with the First Response Team and Duty LADO who will advise as the next stage of referral if required.

3          Legislation

The Human Rights Act 1998 applies to the operation of this policy.

4          Responsibilities

4.1      All Club Staff have a responsibility for receiving complaints, treating them seriously and dealing with them promptly and courteously in accordance with the procedure set out below.

4.2      Senior Managers have a responsibility for resolving a complaint, and leading or contributing to an investigation into a complaint when this is considered appropriate.

4.3      The Chief Executive Officer is responsible for resolving complaints which have not been resolved during the previous two stages. The decision made by the Chief Executive Officer is final.

4.4      The Governing Board is responsible for ensuring that the complaints policy and procedure are operating effectively and may become directly involved if a complaint is directed against the Chief Executive or members of the governing body.

5          Actions to Implement and Develop Policy

5.1      Stage One

The Club expects complaints to be made informally to a member of staff in the first instance. Where this is not possible or does not result in satisfactory resolution, the complaint should be submitted in writing to Nicola Toolan, Head of Safeguarding.

The Club usually expects complaints to be made by the person concerned. However, it will consider complaints made by a parent or advocate.

Anonymous complaints cannot be investigated.

All comments/complaints will be forwarded to Laura Thomas, Chief Executive Officer, who will acknowledge receipt within one working week. The Chief Executive Officer will then forward to the relevant Club manager.

5.2      Stage two

The relevant Club manager will respond in writing within one working week, explaining what has happened as a result of the complaint. Where this involves a member of staff, specific detail of action taken will not be made available. This is to ensure that our employees are afforded appropriate dignity at work. 

If the complaint requires further investigation that cannot be carried out within the week, the manager shall keep the complainant informed and specify a date when a response can be given.

5.3      Stage three

If the complainant is dissatisfied with the relevant manager’s response, then the complaint will be forwarded to a member of the Club Senior Management resolve.

The senior manager will acknowledge receipt of the complaint within two working weeks and a final reply will be completed within 8 working weeks to allow time for any formal investigations to take place.

5.4      Stage four (final internal stage)

If the complainant is still dissatisfied with the response, then the matter will be referred to the Chief Executive. The Chief Executive Officer will respond within three weeks. The Chief Executive Officer’s decision is final.

The total comments/complaints procedure should be finalised in no more than 13 working weeks unless there are exceptional circumstances in which case the complainant will be kept informed of progress.

5.5      Complaints against the Chief Executive or Members of the Governing Body

Complaints against the Chief Executive Officer should be addressed to the Chair of the Governors c/o the Clerk to the Corporation. Complaints against the Governing Body should also be addressed to the Clerk to the Corporation.

6          Monitoring & Evaluation

6.1      The Club will maintain a confidential record of complaints dealt with to feed into quality improvement processes. The Club will maintain a record of all complaints, appeals and outcomes and produce an annual report for analysis by the Board.

Complaints can also be made in writing and may be submitted by post to:

Premier House, 1-5 Argyle Way, Stevenage, SG1 2AD.

or by e-mail to: contact@theifo.co.uk

or via the website: www.theifo.co.uk

You may initially register your concerns by phone and may wish to leave a message on the IFO Voicemail 03301654223.

We expect the following from our Staff/Players/Coaches/Volunteers. Our good name and our success have been achieved by ensuring that all those working with us uphold our standards and high level of customer service.

Rochdale AFC expects employees to behave appropriately, courteously, professionally and responsibly within the following guidelines:

• Go beyond the call of duty for the Club
• Promote and develop the business and affairs of the Club
• Carry out duties professionally, on time and to a satisfactory standard
• Promote good behaviour, be responsible, honest and respectful
• Hold high ethical values and do not abuse your position for personal gain
• Maintain a high standard of integrity in all working and business relationships
• Exercise diligence with regard to the care of all Company property and equipment
• Devote your whole time and attention to the Club’s business during working hours
• Ensure that you undertake no other work or activities which are likely to be prejudicial to the interests of the Company
• Undertake any duties which may reasonably be requested and which are within your skills and capabilities
• Observe all legal and ethical requirements applicable to the business
• Keep confidential all information gained during the course of employment about the Company’s business or that of any player, manager, coach, client, customer, supplier, contractor and other stakeholders
• Do not give or accept hospitality, gifts or services without the prior authorisation of your manager
• Ensure you provide such explanations, information and assistance as to your activities as may be required by the Company from time to time and be helpful and obliging to all colleagues and management.
• In accordance with the FA Rules, do not place any bets on any football game, games or other footballing matter, whether or not Rochdale AFC is involved in that bet or bets.
• Practice a zero tolerance towards discrimination, harassment and abuse and to promote equality in an environment in which all individuals can feel safe and comfortable.

Rochdale AFC is an equal opportunities organisation which welcomes all groups from the community in activities/programmes

Updated August 2026

Rochdale Association Football Club and Rochdale AFC Community Trust

Environmental Sustainability Policy

Revision: 8 July 2022
Next formal review: July 2024

Author: Tony Pockney
Approvals: RAFC Board Rochdale, AFC Community Trust Board

Introduction

Rochdale Association Football Club and Rochdale AFC Community Trust recognise that we have a responsibility to the environment beyond legal and regulatory requirements and will move towards a NetZero footprint.  We are committed to reducing our environmental impact and continually improving our environmental performance as an integral part of our business strategy and operating procedures.  We will use our position and influence in the local community to encourage fans, visitors, suppliers and other stakeholders to do the same. 

We are proud participants in the EFL Green Clubs Initiative and will use their benchmarking to generate ideas, assess our performance, and to measure the impact of our initiatives and to incentivise further improvement.

Responsibility

Tony Pockney, RAFC Main Board Director and Trustee of Rochdale AFC Community Trust is responsible for ensuring that this policy is implemented.  Operational leads have been appointed from the Club and the Community Trust.

A Working Group will assess opportunities, drive changes and measure impacts. Members will change from time to time, and participation will be open to staff from all Departments.

Ultimately all staff will have a responsibility in their area to ensure that the aims and objectives of this policy are met and an ethos is in place to garner support from fans, visitors, suppliers and other stakeholders.

Policy aims

We endeavour to:

• Keep abreast with and comply with all relevant regulatory requirements;
• Continually monitor and improve environmental performance;
• Continually improve and reduce environmental impacts;
• Incorporate environmental factors into business decisions; and
• Increase awareness and encourage good practice in staff, fans and other stakeholders.

Paper and plastics

We will:

• Minimise the use of paper and plastics;
• Reduce packaging as much as possible in what we buy, utilise and sell; and
• Reuse and recycle all paper and plastic where possible.

Energy and Water

We will seek to:

• Reduce the amount of energy used as much as possible using technology such as LED where possible;
• Switch off lights, electrical equipment, chilling and heating when not in use manually and with sensor technology; and
• Reduce water usage and wastage and increase reuse through use of senor technologies, recycling and capture.

Office supplies and waste

We will:

• Evaluate if needs can be met in other ways;
• Evaluate if renting or sharing is an option before purchasing;
• Reduce the use of office paper and user 100% recycled paper where possible;
• Favour more environmentally friendly, sustainable and efficient product and delivery methods where possible and cost effective; and
• Reuse and recycle everything we are able to, minimising waste for landfill and disposing of waste responsibly and safely.

Transportation

We will:

• Reduce the need to travel, restricting to necessary trips only and using careful journey planning;
• Promote the use of travel alternatives such as video and phone conferencing;
• Make efforts to accommodate the needs of those using public transport or bicycles; and
• Favour ‘green’ vehicles where possible, maintaining any fleet carefully and using it carefully to ensure ongoing efficiency.

Maintenance and cleaning

We will:

• Use cleaning materials and detergents that are as environmentally friendly as possible;
• Wash on lowest temperatures to achieve appropriate results;
• Use materials in refurbishments that are as environmentally friendly as possible; and
• Only use licenced organisations to dispose of waste.

Monitoring and improvement

We will:

• Comply with all relevant regulatory requirements;
• Assess and benchmark to determine current status and to seek ways to improve;
• Set targets and measure results;
• Incorporate environmental factors into business decisions;
• Increase employee awareness via communication and training; and
• Review this policy and adherence to it in Board meetings and via the Environmental Working Group.

Culture

We will:

• Update this policy at least bi-annually in consultation with the Working Group, staff and other stakeholders and gain approval from RAFC Board and Rochdale AFC Community Trust Board;
• Update this policy at least bi-annually
• We will seek to benchmark annually to confirm status and set direction for new and existing initiatives;
• Involve, encourage and recognise staff, suppliers, fans, visitors in the journey to NetZero; and
• Think local whenever possible to reduce transport and travel, reduce CO2 and help the local community.