STST - FAQ's

What is a Supporters Trust and how does it differ from the Slough Town Supporters Association (STSA)?

A supporters Trust is a democratic, not for profit organisation of fans committed to providing supporters with a voice in the decision making process at their club and to strengthening the links between the club and the community it serves.

It differs from an independent supporters association (ISA) in two main ways – organisationally and in attitude. Organisationally, the Trust is an Industrial and Provident Society (IPS) regulated by the Financial services Authority (FSA). This means that it can own shares or property which means that ultimately, it could own the football club. As an ISA is not a legal entity, any assets have to be registered to individuals.

In terms of attitude the Trust is about putting a professional face to the club and saying we’re skilled people with something to offer. There are also certain disciplines imposed upon the Trust as it is an IPS such as democracy, accountability, and transparency.

Why form the Trust?

The formation of the STST was a natural progression from the former STSA with a view to promoting fresh ideas and input, embarking on a structured fund raising programme and providing supporters with a real voice in the running of our Club.

A key advantage of the Trust, whilst it is not the wish of the current Steering Committee, is that is has the legal structure in place to take over the ownership and running of the football club should the current owner choose to walk away.

What can you do?

If you haven’t already joined the Trust, do so TODAY. Details are below on how you can go about this. If you know supporters who have not joined the Trust to date, ask them to do so and furthermore, encourage your friends, family and colleagues to join also.

Come forward with constructive ideas. The Trust Steering Committee does not have a monopoly on good ideas so be prepared to put your thoughts forward.

Get involved in fund raising activities. This can be in the form of participation (there’s a sponsored walk to Metropolitan Police in April to think about!) but also support through contributing.

What do you get when you join the Trust?

Firstly, you get an EQUAL share in the Trust. This entitles you to an equal vote on all Trust matters. Nobody in the Trust gets more than one vote, irrespective of the sums contributed. There will be regular communication on Trust activities and you also get the added advantage of discounted coach travel to away matches (including travel and injury insurance).

More importantly though you get an opportunity to vote for Trust members, a voice in the running of the Club and you will be making a contribution to securing the future of Slough Town Football Club.

How is money used?

A small amount of money is used to cover day to day running costs and, in addition, £1 of every membership contribution is retained to cover members’ maximum liability.

Over and above this, money will be used to support community projects and ensure stability of both the Trust and the Club. However, it is important to remember that significant sums can only be spent with the agreement of Trust members. Elected Officers are personally liable for any misappropriation of funds so members can be assured that money will only be channelled into those projects supported by Trust members.

If you have any enquiries about the trust, there is an established email address to direct your questions to:

trust@sloughtownfc.net