AFCB Supporters Trust Statement

In the light of recent events at the club the ST have been discussing the way forward for the Trust, the Supporters and the Club.

It is clear that any supporters group must first represent those people it serves whilst maintaining dialogue and a working relationship with the Club Board. It also has a duty to look after the interests of ALL supporters of AFCB.

We have already held a meeting with BBSU to consider how we can complement each other for supporters' benefit

We do not know if we are to have any representation on the new board. However,we are in regular contact with the board and hopefully this will benefit everyone. Now that there are new owners, we shall be able to concentrate our efforts towards the benefit of the supporters, and their ideas for improvement and advise the Board accordingly.

The ST have been asked to look at taking on various projects including finishing the Disabled Platform. At present we are looking at what is involved in such an undertaking . This area will benefit our disabled supporters and help them and their helpers have a safe area with good viewing, to enhance their match day experience.

The Trust has also recognised that communication has been an area that has been lacking in recent times and to that end we are pleased that Rob Trent has rejoined us. Initially, he will be looking at ways of better communicating with our members.

The ST in its own rights is a legal entity and as such we have certain restrictions placed upon us. We are working closely with Supporters Direct which is are an organization set up originally by the Government to provide support and assistance for its member trusts to secure greater level of accountability and deliver democratic representation within football clubs and within the game's governing structures. Supporters Direct deliver advice and guidance on governance and financial accountability to its members and to play a valued and responsible role in the running of their clubs, improving communication and building a better relationship with the local community.

We intend to hold more functions, such as quizzes, forums ( both for members and non-members), and shall seek Q and A sessions with our new owners.

Without the restrictions of Board Representation, we shall be able to ask considerably more detailed questions, and will now be able to publish the answers given to us There will be more frequent newsletters, even if there is little to say. There will also be a survey conducted amongst our supporters to ascertain their current views on the club.

The Trust is funded mainly from donations from our membership and our sponsors. We shall be providing our members with lists of recommended tradesman and retailers, and also giving discounts to members at our functions.

Most of our members are known to supporters, and we welcome any comments, queries and feedback. We have our own website www.afcbst.org which we shall keep as up to date as we are able.

Now that the trauma of the past eight months has settled a little, we shall be reverting to our main aim - to represent the supporters of AFCB.

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