Supporters wishing to attend fixtures at The Hawthorns are now required to present an NHS COVID pass on entering the stadium.
The UK Government has introduced legislation which requires everyone aged 18 and over - at sporting events with crowds of more than 10,000 people - to provide proof of double vaccination or a negative lateral flow test when entering stadia from Wednesday, December 15 onwards. Tests must have been undertaken no more than 48 hours prior to kick-off.
The legislation means all adults attending upcoming home matches will be required to present an NHS COVID pass on entry. Passes will be mandatory for as long as they are a legal requirement.
Fans are advised to download the NHS mobile app, if they have not already done so, to familiarise themselves with the relevant processes. For more information on the NHS app, click here.
In addition, supporters aged 11 and over will be required to wear face coverings while in an indoor setting at The Hawthorns. The Government introduced new rules last week which require with fans to wear masks while inside concourses and indoor hospitality areas.
Supporters are encouraged to visit wba.co.uk/covid to keep up to date with the requirements to attend The Hawthorns.
Frequently asked questions
What are the new COVID-19 restrictions?
Other than in limited circumstances, the current COVID restrictions require everyone aged 18 and over attending The Hawthorns on a matchday to present an NHS COVID pass before entry. The COVID pass requires one of the following:
- Proof of full vaccination (two doses) against COVID-19
- A negative Lateral Flow Test result from the previous 48 hours
In addition, supporters aged 11 or over are required to wear face covers in indoor setting unless eating or drinking.
The card you received when you were jabbed will not be accepted as proof of double vaccination.
What is an NHS COVID Pass and how can I get it?
NHS COVID passes show your COVID-19 vaccination status or test results.
You can access your COVID Pass digitally through the NHS app or online NHS COVID Pass service where you can download digitally to your smartphone, take a screenshot, or print it at home.
If you cannot apply digitally, you can ask for a COVID pass letter to be sent in the post from your GP.
Click here to visit the NHS website to access your NHS COVID Pass.
Please note the confirmation card you receive when having your vaccination WILL NOT be accepted as proof of your vaccination status.
I do not have a COVID Pass / I’m not vaccinated, does that mean I cannot attend games?
At present a negative Lateral Flow Test from the previous 48 hours would grant you access to the Stadium, even if you have not been vaccinated.
Please DO NOT bring the lateral flow test with you but be prepared to show confirmation from the NHS that the test was negative on either the NHS app, an email or text message.
Click here to order free Lateral Flow Tests from the Government website.
Do I have to wear a face cover now?
Face covers are now required in indoor settings for anyone aged 11 and over unless you are eating or drinking. When moving around the concourse facilities, hospitality areas, Megastore or Ticket Office you will be required to wear a face cover.
I am under 18, do I need a COVID Pass to attend The Hawthorns?
No, COVID Passes are only required for supporters aged 18 and over.
My COVID Pass has expired, what do I do?
If you have the NHS app you can request an update of your NHS COVID Pass. Please ensure this is done in plenty of time ahead of the game as without it you will be refused entry.
My COVID Pass hasn’t arrived in time, what can I do?
If you haven’t got your COVID Pass you can take a Lateral Flow Test and register the result with the NHS. You will receive a text and / or email confirmation of the result which you can show at the turnstiles. Please note tests must be taken no more than 48 hours before the game.
Do I need a smartphone and the NHS app to get a COVID Pass?
No, you can download your NHS COVID Pass and print it off from the NHS website or you can request a paper version from your GP. Click here for more information.
Do I need to go anywhere different at the Stadium for my COVID Pass to be checked?
No, please come to your specified turnstile and you will be asked by Stewards to show your NHS COVID Pass prior to entry. We anticipate this may cause increased queues so please arrive early if possible.
My ticket has been bought by someone else, does the name need to match the one on my COVID Pass?
The name on your match ticket does not need to match the name on your NHS COVID Pass.
I have a medical exemption, so I am unvaccinated. What should I do?
You can take a lateral flow test within 48 hours of the game and show the Stewards your email or text message confirmation of a negative result. Contact our Disabled Supporter Liaison Officer if you have any queries on liz.massey@wbafc.co.uk