Following our recent article on LCFC website increased transaction fees, discussions on fans message boards, particularly Foxestalk, raised questions about when LCFC consult with fans and in what level of detail
Although the Foxes Trust will contact LCFC as necessary, there are several formal channels for communication; these are set out below. It should be understood that Premier League guidelines encourage the Premier League Clubs to engage in regular Structured Dialogue with Fans' Groups.
1. Fans Consultative Committee – FCC
The FCC concept (with fans from each fans group & fans from all parts of the ground/age range attending) was created by the Foxes Trust around 15 years ago. The meeting frequency used to be 4 times per year, dropped to 3, then 2 and we only had one last season, the one due for May is yet to be arranged. Whilst the reduction in number of FCC meetings is disappointing, in part it is acceptable due to the introduction of the more focused 90 minutes sessions. The CEO attends the FCC along with other senior staff.
The agenda covers topics that both the Club and Fans want to discuss. The official minutes of the meeting are only published on the this website, and the Premier League guidelines on fan consultation states that we publish them Nov 18 minutes here
2. 90 Minutes Sessions
The 90 Minute Sessions are usually single topic i.e. Memberships, Catering, Match Day experience as set by the Club.
The sessions are generally announced on the Club website and any fans can apply to attend. Foxes Trust always attend these sessions, occasionally we will invite members to attend rather than our Board members.
The sessions are chaired by the LCFC SLO Jim Donnelly and other staff associated with the topic. However, fan attendance of the 90 minutes sessions has fallen, as attendees feel there is a failure to deliver by the club following the sessions. All supporters can request to attend a 90 Minute meeting.
3. Fans Group’s Meeting
One recent innovation is a Fans Groups' meeting. The 5 Groups participating are Union FS, Disabled Supporters Association, Foxes Pride, Supporters Club, and Foxes Trust. These meetings are to cover general items of Fan interest, the agenda is set by the Groups. Topics currently being discussed include Stadium Displays showing Club Achievements, Player accessibility at affordable events, Safe Standing, rewarding fan loyalty, etc.
However, the Fans Groups are also frustrated with the lack of progress on issues raised. Whilst the SLO is taking the issues back to the club, there is concern that not enough support is provided by senior management as feed-back on proposals are patchy at best.
The next Fans Group Session is on August 6th, when the Fans Group are seeking to establish a proper constitution and process for the Fans' Groups meeting which, with senior management buy-in, will hopefully lead to meaningful and beneficial advancements to all parties.
4. One to One
Ian Bason, The Chair of the Foxes Trust, has until recently, had annual meetings with LCFC CEO Susan Whelan. Unfortunately, despite several contacts with the Club, no date has been set for this year's overdue meeting.
These meetings tend to focus on Governance issues which are the basis of the FT's existence.
Obviously, the tragic death of Khun Vichai and the re-franchising of Duty Free in Thailand has put additional strains on the Club's CEO and some other King Power Directors. It is hoped that with the new season approaching, full, worthwhile communications can be re-established.
Whether a Foxes Trust member or not, if you have a topic you consider should be brought up at any of these meetings, or wish support or guidance on any matter related to LCFC where you think the FT can help, then please contact us through via email [email protected]