Don't think yesterday's Trust email to members has been posted here so...
We just wanted to write to you and give you an update on everything happening behind the scenes. Our first board meeting involved a lot of introductions, paperwork and documentation, so we know we’ve been quieter than we hoped to be.
We want you to know that we are putting in the effort and are excited about the opportunities we, as a new board, can achieve with time. As you’ll have seen from previous emails, we elected people to their new roles and work has started to transition some of the admin work to the new board members.
However, we also wanted to take this opportunity to set out a few commitments:
- We will make public comments on events when it is appropriate to do so but it does not mean that we are not listening to our members and discussing issues internally.
- We will not over-abuse the power of a statement but it does not mean that we are not sitting idle.
- As a board, we will act as a single voice to the benefit of TrustSTFC members.
With this in mind:
Axis NSW
We are aware of the recent news article surrounding Axis NSW. However, as this is external to Swindon Town, it would not be appropriate for us to comment at this stage (see Commitment 1) but we are closely monitoring the situation.
Fairgame
We understand a report will be shared in April 2024, in which Fairgame brings unquestionable expertise and independence. We are glad the Trust could introduce Fairgame to the club and that the club has engaged with them, which is a great outcome. We hope this will improve transparency and we look forward to seeing their inaugural report.
EFL fine
We have also taken note of a fine against the club owner (not the Club) for failure to disclose share transfers, hopefully drawing a line under this issue. We hope that lessons have been learnt.
Prices
We are delighted the club has chosen to lower single ticket prices and frozen season ticket prices. In the recent Advisory Board, we expressed our disappointment at removing the Family 2 ticket category. Still, it is good news to see prices frozen or lowered when costs of living are rising.
Trust engagement
We want to maximise how we engage with you, and for each email to be meaningful. We are working out a strategy on this, and further communication will come, please give us a little time to work things out.
Timelines
As per Commitment 3, we will speak as a Board and will act with due consideration. This may mean that things take a little longer than a single person can respond, but as a collective, we believe this is the right approach.
Relationship with owners
We will seek to positively engage with Owners, by representing Supporter’s legitimate concerns, opinions and ideas without fear or favour. Where possible we will offer our advice and help to support the Club in the future to attain our mutual desire for success. We will also be prepared to call out issues that need to be improved upon or are in our view a hindrance to achieving success.
