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Community Guidelines

Gaffer HQ Ltd · Last updated: May 2026

Gaffer HQ exists to make football management easier and more enjoyable. To keep it that way for everyone, we ask all managers and referees to follow these guidelines when using the platform, including the messaging features.

1. Be respectful

Treat every other user with courtesy, regardless of the outcome of a fixture request or game. Disagreements happen; how you handle them matters. Always communicate as you would face-to-face.

2. No abusive language or behaviour

The following are not acceptable on Gaffer HQ:

  • Threatening, intimidating, or aggressive messages
  • Racist, discriminatory, or hateful language of any kind
  • Personal insults or targeted harassment
  • Deliberately offensive or inflammatory content

Any user found sending abusive messages will be removed from the platform immediately and without notice.

3. Keep messages relevant

Fixture messages are visible to all parties involved — both managers and the referee, where applicable. Keep conversations focused on fixture logistics: kick-off times, venues, referee arrangements, and similar. Do not use the platform to send spam or unsolicited promotions.

4. Honesty and accuracy

Provide accurate information when arranging fixtures. Don't make commitments you don't intend to keep, and give reasonable notice if circumstances change. Repeated no-shows or bad faith behaviour will result in account suspension.

5. Safeguarding

Gaffer HQ is a platform for adults managing youth and senior football. You must never share personal information about players (especially minors) in messages. Please review our Privacy Policy for more details.

6. Reporting concerns

If you receive a message that breaches these guidelines or see inappropriate content, please report it using the 'Report Content' button within chat areas.

7. Enforcement

We reserve the right to remove, suspend, or permanently ban any account that violates these guidelines. In serious cases, we may report conduct to the relevant football association or, where appropriate, to law enforcement, as described in the Terms and Conditions.