Posted on 23rd March 2021
Since 2016 Reading FC have backed Twenty’s Plenty by offering away fans visiting the Madejski Stadium £20 tickets – and are challenging other clubs to follow suit.
© Alamy
Posted on 23rd March 2021
It’s now been more than one year since COVID-19 first hit and the football calendar changed dramatically. Supporters haven’t been in grounds since November 2020 and it’s likely that, even with a return to some form of normality, restrictions will be in place next season too.
With a return to stadiums comes season ticket sales and the usual issues that would be expected as clubs adapt T&Cs to factor in the strong possibility of reduced crowds and, in worst case scenarios, further lockdowns and empty stadiums.
Here at the Football Supporters’ Association (FSA) we have continued to offer help to our affiliated and associated supporters’ organisations across the country, so we’ve seen our fair share of good (and bad) ideas by clubs on how to manage the return.
With that in mind we thought we’d share some examples of good practice and highlight clubs that have engaged and consulted their supporters despite a tough backdrop of furloughed staff, reduced revenue and the emotional impact of a health pandemic.
Fans will, if they haven’t already, start seeing “early bird” season ticket offers and it’s important that supporters’ groups go into discussions with clubs feeling well prepared, with clear ideas about what they think is fair and reasonable.
The FSA Ticketing Charter is designed to help supporters in those discussions by setting a fair benchmark that clubs can still hit in these difficult times and providing a “sense check” to strive for a level of consistency across clubs.
Of course different clubs have different challenges, and our Premier League and EFL Networks have created similar but bespoke Ticketing Charters for fan groups to use. Supporters at non-league level can also use elements of either charter in discussions with their clubs or contact the FSA if you need more specific support.
Are you a supporters’ group that has been happy with how their club has engaged and feel they deserve a place on this list? Then we’d love to hear from you as this list certainly isn’t exhaustive – get in touch.
If you have any particular issues relating to tickets, “consumer” matters, or any other issues then contact the Football Supporters’ Association and we’ll do our best to help.
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