Voice of the Fans: February committee meeting

Notes from the meeting on February 25th, 2026

Present: Ryan Ashmore, David Cross, Eloise Nicholls

Overview

Key focus for the meeting was how to keep pushing Voice of the Fans (VoF) presence and improving fan base interactions via social media forums and physical contact opportunities at matches and other SUFC events. The group expressed a commitment to the VoF purpose of representing the collective interests of all supporters in its dialogue with the club, and to be committed to the VoF objectives and core principles, to align with the needs of fans and the wider community.

1. Review of the 7 February event

All agreed good and useful day had with fan contact and handouts of the VoF flyer before the Southend game. A number of questions had been asked, and responded to after input from the club.

Good contact made with members of various SUFC supporter groups: Max Bell (Iron Hour); Gareth Holden (Iron Army and Iron Hour); Stuart Maw and Rob Lewis (Unity Group); and Positivity Dave. Along with the fans there were visits from SUFC: Julie Taylor, Sue Rands (new VP) and Ian Sharp.

2. How are we progressing on our objectives whilst pursuing our core principles (Representation, Transparency, Respect, Accountability and Unity)?

Primary objectives for the VoF remain well in focus and the VoF is raising various matters of importance on behalf of the fanbase with the club. However, meeting agreed there was a tendency for VoF to be seen as just a “complaints department”. Accordingly, persevering with having good access to the club Directors and management to enable consultation on future matters such that the fans voices may influence continues to be very important to the VoF activities.

3. Pounds for the Pitch

Noted the Unity Group and Positivity Dave had pushed forward their initiative with the club very quickly.

4. Establishing communication with Club VPs and sharing any fan based initiatives

Good discussion with Sue Rands on February 7th to introduce VoF and its main objectives and to propose invitation to her to the March SUFC VoF meeting to discuss involvement in fan based activities.

Noted in response to a question raised on the 7th on VP activities; the club had advised the VPs have set up a working group to plan their activities. For example, they will be tasked with hosting events to take pressure off employed staff, such as organising the summer Golf Day and evening dinners.

5. Feedback from DC meet up with SULSESC and Ian Sharp

At the request of SULSESC (Scunthorpe United London and South East Supporters Club) Ian Sharp attended informal get together before the Aldershot away game on 21 Feb 26.

SULSESC are a very friendly and active group of supporters – an enjoyable pre game meet up.

Good sharing of news from Ian in relation to sustainability operations: future years re-establishing an Academy and development of local talent; the pursuit of other sources of income through wider use of Attis Arena facilities; the best solution to pitch renovation – various options on the table to consider (including hybrid type). Ian interested in joining in the March SUFC VoF meeting.

6. Future activities to encourage and strengthen relationships between supporter groups

Good opportunity for further publicity at the Community Day on the 14th March (Altrincham home game) – check out a hut availability, large home attendance expected and hoping for decent weather which will encourage more fans to stop and chat.

To continue doing what VoF is doing with regular items on social media (need to share ideas), and to build on contacts with the various supporter groups to check their willingness to share communications.

7. Prepare for March Meeting with Board members of Club

Request to be made to the club to set meeting date – propose w/c 23 March. Take progress check that the VoF was performing as the club expected. Request for Ian Sharp and Sue Rands to join.

Discuss setting up “get together” at the club (possibly end of season) where VoF members meet face to face with Board members and management team for review, lessons learned and future plans.

8. AoB

Query raised on beamback at the Attis Arena for Truro game.

The club later responded to the query, stating that the DAZN require a monthly fee for this irrespective of the number of games shown, so would not be viable to put on for just a one-off event. To be reviewed.

VoF Actions

- Arrange March meeting with SUFC
- Prepare for Community Day participation
- Share ideas on subject(s) for social media communication(s)