As part of football’s commitment to tackling poor behaviour in the game, and creating a positive environment, The FA have reviewed the Temporary Dismissal (Sin Bins) protocol and implemented significant change, which they believe will make it easier for match officials to administer on a match day, including Essex referees.

The change in protocol will now align with the standard cautioning and send-off procedures for match officials. The issue of a yellow card for dissent by word or action will result in a sin bin. If the player receives a second caution whilst in the sin bin, or when they return to the field of play, they will be sent off.

The FA believe this distinct change will provide referees with a simplified tool to deal with dissent by issuing a temporary dismissals to players, thus playing a pivotal role in respect and fair play. In addition to the domestic change in the protocol, IFAB (International Football Association Board) have also amended their 2024/25 Laws of the Game, which must also be followed.

Further guidance can be found below, plus the amended 2024/25 Laws of the Game can also be accessed via this link. Additionally, you can interact with @EssexCountyFA and @EssexReferees on X and search for the ‘EssexFootball’ and ‘EssexReferees’ pages on Facebook.