Brokers or carers? The misunderstood role of Supporter Liaison Officers in English football

• Date: Thursday 30th April 2026 (6pm)
• Registration required – click here…

The work of a Supporter Liaison Officers (SLOs) is often undervalued and that is something which the FSA thinks should change. The importance of supporter engagement is better understood by clubs than ever – but do they really embrace the role that SLOs can play?

In this webinar Mark Turner (Manchester Metropolitan University) and Danny Fitzpatrick (Aston University) will ask whether SLOs act as “brokers” or “carers” and outline the findings from their in-depth research into this subject.

Are SLOs merely a brokering link between a club’s fanbase and staff? Passing on messaging and balancing competing ideas. Or can they be something deeper? Carers. The heartbeat of a club advocating for supporters and a force at the centre of communities.

It’s a great time to ask those questions with the establishment of the Independent Football Regulator and a new regulatory environment which has put great emphasis on supporter engagement.

• Date: Thursday 30th April 2026 (6pm)
• Registration required – click here…

This online event will last approximately one hour, including a 25 minute presentation and questions afterwards. If you’d like to read more about this work click here.