Following a number of high-profile crowd-related medical incidents, the Sports Grounds Safety Authority (SGSA) has developed and circulated guidance aimed at supporting clubs dealing with such crowd medical emergencies. The safety and welfare of everyone attending a match is a priority and it is important we follow the well-established processes in place for dealing with crowd medical emergencies.

For all Premier League matches there is a Crowd Safety Medical Team dedicated to the care and treatment of ill and injured spectators. They work directly with the home club’s safety officer. The team typically consists of crowd doctors, paramedics, nurses and first responders. These groups are trained and experienced in pre-hospital care and are equipped to deal with life-threatening emergencies.

It is the responsibility of the Crowd Safety Medical Team to respond to any crowd medical incidents, rather than the club medical team who are responsible for the care of their players. Club medical teams are only expected to attend an emergency in the crowd if requested by the safety officer or Crowd Safety Medical Team. In the event of a crowd medical emergency, match officials should consult with the club safety officer via the fourth official before making any decision to suspend play.

If supporters are aware of any medical incidents in the crowd on matchday, you should inform the nearest steward or police officer.