County FA releases inclusive language guide, with list of ‘offensive’ terms and what to say instead

The Berks and Bucks County FA releases an inclusive language guide, with a list of ‘offensive’ terms and what to say instead.

This has been seen by The Telegraph, who uploaded a photo of the list onto social media, and is already going viral, causing quite a stir.

The list says footballers should avoid such phrases as “come on lads” and use the gender-neutral “come on team”, to foster a welcoming environment.

The guide also recommends others, including replacing “linesman” with “assistant referee.”

Critics however have called the guidance “sinister” and expressed concern over the distortion of language.

In just two hours of being posted online, the tweet has gone on to get over 50,000 views with hundreds of users having their say on it.

❌ ‘Come on lads’ is offensive, footballers told

Berks and Bucks FA has published an inclusive language guide designed to “build a more welcoming environment”

Here is a list of its discouraged terms 👇 pic.twitter.com/9TyULEk9rJ

— The Telegraph (@Telegraph) September 27, 2025

BERKS & BUCKS FA:

At Berks & Bucks FA, we are committed to ensuring football is a game for all. We want players, referees, coaches, parents, and volunteers to feel welcome, valued, and respected – no matter their background or identity.

To support this commitment, we are proud to launch our new Inclusive Language Guide, designed to help clubs, referees, and everyone across the grassroots game build a more welcoming environment.

Language is one of the most powerful tools we have in shaping the culture of our game. The words we choose can determine whether someone feels a true sense of belonging or whether they feel excluded. By using respectful, inclusive language, we can make sure football continues to be a space where everyone feels safe, supported, and able to thrive.

The guide offers practical advice and real-life football examples, covering the nine protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010, as well as everyday scenarios that clubs and referees encounter. From team talks to referee briefings, parent sign-ups to post-match praise, the guide shows how small changes in language can have a big impact.

Callum Salhotra, Community & Inclusion Manager, Berks & Bucks FA, said; “Football has the power to unite communities and change lives. But for that to happen, everyone must feel like they belong. Language is at the heart of that — it can break down barriers or build them up. This guide will help us all take simple but meaningful steps to ensure our game is inclusive, respectful, and welcoming to everyone.”

The Inclusive Language Guide supports our ongoing work to deliver against The FA’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy: A Game for All and our own Community & Inclusion Strategy.

We encourage all clubs, coaches, referees, and volunteers to use the guide and embed inclusive language into every part of the game, on and off the pitch.”

Sir John Hayes, the chairman of the Common Sense group of Conservative MPs, said: “At best, this is daft. At worst this is sinister.

“The distortion of language has been the business of tyrants throughout time, and I’m not sure the Football Association would want to be associated with tyranny.

“And so the idea that you can instruct people not to use a phrase in common usage is deeply worrying.

“The association should get on with helping clubs to do the best they can for all those who want to be involved in football to have their chance regardless of where they start.

“So my message to young, current and aspiring footballers is come on lads.”

Scroll on to see the guide below…

The Berks & Bucks FA sanctions 35 local football leagues and affiliates approximately 600 clubs and 3500 teams within their County FA boundaries.

The FA and County FAs ensure everyone who is involved in football has a great experience – regardless of gender, sexuality, ethnicity, ability or disability, faith or age. Both The FA and the County FAs are working to ensure everyone has the opportunity to be part of the game.