Supporters have their say
Torquay United Supporters Trust have thanked supporters who took part in their recent consultation survey, as TUST continues to explore its aim of increasing the amount of money it annually puts into TUFC to £100,000.
In total, 737 response were received, made up of 74% TUST members, and 26% non-TUST members.
Regarding the proposal to increase annual its annual contribution to £100,000, 87% of those 737 responses were ‘supportive or very supportive’, whilst 12% were neutral – with just 1% unsupportive.
The introduction of a tiered membership scheme, with added benefits, was floated, and again this venture was well received – 76.2% said this would make them more likely to increase their contribution, with only 24% saying it would not.
Supporters were also asked their opinions on increasing the minimum monthly membership, which currently stands at £2. In response to this, 67% would support an increase to £5, 20% were unsure, whilst 13% would not support an increase.
Supporters were also asked how affordable different monthly contribution levels would be: 83% felt that £5 per month was affordable, 50% said £10 was affordable, while 26% said £20 and 19% said £25.
When asked what supporters value most about TUST, the top responses included supporting the football club financially, feeling part of the club community, having a voice in club matters, transparency and updates, holding a significant shareholding in the football club.
With future additional benefits one of the drivers behind an increase in membership contributions, the most following were deemed as most appealing by supporters:
• Priority ticket access
• Club shop discounts
• Hospitality Matchday experience draws
• Voting or influence on specific club initiatives
• Discounted food/drink at Plainmoor
• Exclusive events with players/management
• Trust-only competitions and experiences
Supporters were also asked if they would consider investing in a future community share issue, similar to the one run by TUST last season.
Once again, the results were both positive and conclusive – 71% would consider investing, with a further 19% open to the idea.
The most common potential investment levels were between £100 and £500, whilst fans stated that the most important factors influencing their decision would be:
• A clear plan for how funds would be used.
• Confidence in the improved financial stability of the club.
• Continued emotional commitment to the club.
• Transparency and regular reporting.
What Happens Next?
Following the survey, the Supporters Trust Board has now met and reviewed the results in full, and based on this feedback, the Board has agreed a direction of travel for how TUST will grow its support for the club going forward.
In summary:
• There is strong backing for increasing the Trust’s financial contribution to the club.
• Supporters favour a tiered membership structure, offering choice and flexibility.
• It is important that membership remains inclusive and accessible, even as we grow.
Therefore, the Board has agreed to:
• Introduce a new tiered membership structure, designed around supporter feedback.
• Retain the £2 minimum membership level, ensuring it remains fair and inclusive, moving forward this will be reviewed on an annual basis.
• Work with the club to develop meaningful, supporter-valued benefits.
• Continue to improve transparency and communication around how funds are used.
Further details of the proposed structure, including membership levels and benefits, will be shared by TUST shortly, along with opportunities for members to ask questions and provide feedback.
TUST Board member Joe Uglow was delighted with the response the survey received.
“The response to the consultation was fantastic, and it was particularly encouraging to hear not only from a large proportion of our valued members, but also from supporters who aren’t yet part of the Trust,” said Joe.
“As 28.65% shareholders in the football club, the TUST board is committed to supporting the club for the long term. It’s extremely positive to see that the majority of respondents have backed the mandate.
“We’re now working hard behind the scenes to develop a membership structure that delivers meaningful, supporter-focused, benefits.
Thanks once again to everyone that took part in the survey, which will help shape the future of both TUST and TUFC.
