The FA Charter Standard Clubs programme, supported by FA Community Partner McDonald's, was launched in February 2001 with the aim of setting standards of coaching, administration and child protection for clubs working with young people.

The programme is aimed at boys and girls under sixteen years old and will help children and parents find a club in their local area that meets FA standards.

The project is at the heart of The Football Association's investment programme for grassroots football that will see £32 million spent this year to improve facilities and coaching across the country. Forty clubs from Lancashire, North Riding, Nottinghamshire, Kent, London and Dorset worked with The FA in a pilot project over the last year.

Then-FA Chief Executive Adam Crozier explained the importance of Charter Standard:

"The FA is committed to raising the standard of grassroots football in England to encourage more people to play, to develop their skills and to enjoy the game in the right environment.

"Clubs who become Charter Standard will be taking part in a genuine grassroots revolution. Every club should be aiming to meet the Charter Standard."

Helping to launch the scheme were West Ham manager Harry Redknapp and his son - the Liverpool and England midfielder Jamie Redknapp. Harry explained why he was backing the project:

"I knew where to send my kids to get a proper football education but most mums and dads aren't so lucky.

"That's why The FA Charter Standard for clubs is such a good idea. For the first time, parents will know the best clubs in their local area to coach their children."

England Women's International footballer, Marieanne Spacey, was also at the launch and was delighted that Charter Standard will give equal priority to women's football:

"This project will increase the opportunities for girls to play football and will help the development of women's football as a sport in this country."