The vast majority of complaints are resolved at an early stage, but if you feel dissatisfied with the outcome of a complaint you have submitted, then you can refer it to the relevant governing body. This, for example, would be the Premier League if your complaint arose from a service provided by a Premier League club. It is only when your complaint has been considered by the governing body that you can appeal to the IFO. For many complaints there will be a 3 stage process (club, governing body, IFO), though where a complaint relates to a governing body itself (eg the FA for an England game), there would be 2 stages (governing body, IFO).

You may wish to communicate your concerns to the IFO, using any of the contact addresses listed on this web site. However, do remember that the IFO can adjudicate formally only on those complaints which have already been dealt with by a governing body.

The IFO has been given some other responsibilities. The IFO can suggest subjects for research and enquiry; it will be consulted on regulation changes; and it may identify wider policy issues arising from complaints it has adjudicated. In announcing the creation of the IFO, the Football Authorities confirmed that they were “committed to the highest standards of self-regulation” and that “the creation of an Ombudsman would maintain a position as the independent and final arbiter of football complaints.”

Operating from the 2008-09 season, the IFO will produce an Annual Report to the Minister for Sport and the Football Authorities. This report will be made publicly available.

Mr Alan Watson CBE was also an IFC Commissioner throughout the life of the IFC, serving as Vice-Chairman during its later stages. He was a senior civil servant and has a wealth of experience in complaints resolution. He was Deputy Parliamentary Commissioner, responsible for investigating complaints against government departments. Alan is a qualified and still active football referee. He is an avid Newcastle United fan and travels long distances from his home in the south to watch his beloved black and whites.

The IFO Advisory Panel will comprise members with a broad range of relevant experience. This expertise includes legal, compliance, communications, stadium operations and security. Members of the Advisory Panel will assist the IFO in dealing with cases where their specialist knowledge is relevant