Voice of the Fans: December committee meeting

Notes provided by the Voice of the Fans representatives following their December committee meeting...

Date of meeting: December 1st, 2025
Present: Eloise, Ryan, David
[Andy notified pre-meeting his resignation from the Voice of the Fans advising he believed the role was an important link between Club and fans but with consideration to his own health and that of his close family meant he could not give the time and effort needed to continue with his participation]

The meeting focused on matters related to fan engagement, and community initiatives. Key topics included the use of social media to interact with fans, question about club finances impact on team strengthening, and planning for upcoming events such as a fan engagement session at Attis Arena on 3rd January. Also discussed some logistical concerns raised by fans, including disabled parking and maximising grass roots fanbase engagement.

All the attendees spoke positively of the previous meeting with James and Michelle and felt this enabled a huge benefit to moving forward with VoF ideas.

1. Discussion on Social Media Engagement

The group discussed the effectiveness of using social media, particularly X (formally Twitter), to engage with fans. It was noted that posting on X generates responses and increases visibility, although the platform's fast-paced nature can make it challenging to keep up. There was a suggestion to maintain regular interaction, such as weekly posts asking for questions or feedback, all to ensure fans are aware of the opportunity to engage.

Eloise acknowledged the importance of social media, and all agreed on the importance of maintaining a presence and capturing fan feedback through social media.

2. Addressing Fan Queries

The meeting reviewed several fan queries/comments received via social media and email.

One popular topic for query related to the club's finances and debts inherited from previous owners and ongoing impact on plans for sustainability and team squad development. While the meeting acknowledged the importance of transparency, it was recognised there is a sensitivity of disclosing financial details publicly. However, it was suggested that a question be prepared by the VoF compiling the sentiments of the various queries received and it be sent to James and Michelle for review on how the club might respond with a statement.

Another query concerned disabled parking, with a fan expressing concerns about potential changes to parking availability near the stadium. The group agreed to forward this issue to Julie Taylor, the Supporter Liaison Officer (SLO), while ensuring the fan was informed of the action taken.

Additionally, there was a discussion about recurring questions regarding the academy, with the meeting agreeing to refer to consistent responses provided in previous fan forums, including referencing the club’s partnership with 780. It was also discussed a query about grassroots engagement, noting that the club already recognises the importance of building connections with local clubs and schools to foster future fan support; but meeting agreed to explore with the Club whether additional efforts could be made.

Finally, the group addressed a question about the timing of a shareholders' meeting, with Ryan offering to monitor communications as a shareholder and would revert with an update.

3. Planning for Upcoming Events and Meetings

The meeting discussed plans for an event on 3rd January, where VoFs would have a visible presence at the stadium to engage with fans. It was proposed setting up on the afternoon of the game in one of the huts, and use social media and the club's website to publicise the event. Suggestions included creating a poster, wearing branded shirts, and potentially using a flag with VoF logo to make VoF presence easily recognisable. Also discussed providing a letterbox for fans to submit anonymous questions or feedback, which could be left at the ticket office for future use. The group agreed to finalise plans with James and Julie and to ensure the event is well-organised and publicised. Additionally, briefly touched on a community day event planned for March, noting it as a great opportunity for engagement.

4. Community Engagement and Initiatives

The group explored various community-focused initiatives.

Discussed the ongoing query for the association of a ladies' team; it was understood that James was the nominated contact point for the person willing to lead the effort.

Another initiative discussed was the potential introduction of "period points" at the stadium, providing free sanitary products to address period poverty. Eloise highlighted the community benefits of this initiative and suggested revisiting the idea with James, despite initial concerns about potential misuse. The group expressed a strong commitment to supporting community- focused efforts and ensuring their initiatives align with the needs of fans and the wider community.

5. A balanced approach

The meeting came to a close with all attendees recognising the importance of maintaining a balanced approach when addressing fan concerns, ensuring that VoFs remain impartial, and the importance of maintaining individuals own professionalism and impartiality when interacting with fans, particularly on social media.

It was acknowledged there are challenges of balancing roles as representatives of the fans and the football club. But this is being managed well by all, while ensuring that Vof remains approachable and open to all fan feedback.

Actions:

- To prepare and share promotional materials for the event on 3rd January via social media and the club’s website.
- To explore options for creating a flag with the group’s logo to display at the event on 3rd January. - To liaise with James and Julie to confirm the arrangements for the event on 3rd January, including the location of the hut and any additional support required from the club.
- To investigate the availability of a letterbox for fans to submit anonymous questions and coordinate its placement at the ticket office.
- To prepare a question for James and Michelle regarding finances for attaining sustainability plans and associated team strengthening/squad development.
- To check the fans' forum for the response provided by Ian Sharp regarding the academy and confirm if this can be used to address related questions.
- To clarify the club’s stance on the introduction of period points and provide feedback on the feasibility of implementing this initiative.