# FAB Meeting Minutes - 25 November 2025 Date: 2025-11-25 Location: Microsoft Teams PDF: https://images.gc.barnsleyfcservices.co.uk/e0948a60-fc5b-11f0-8e8d-bb9666aa7454.pdf 1 Barnsley FC Fan Advisory Group Meeting Minutes Date of Meeting Tuesday 25th November 2025 Location Microsoft Teams Time 6:30 pm Meeting Objective(s) Attendance Present Apologies John Bird – JB Curtis Ledger – CL Andy Gaskell – AG Martin Wilson – MW Steve Brain – SB Dominic Wood - DW Paul Gallagher – PG Heather Linney - HL Jon Flatman - JF Robin Harris – RH Phil Hall - PH Claire Calton – CC Agenda, Discussions, Issues Topic / Discussion Notes Discussion led by 1. Minutes and feedback from last meeting The group reviewed the September minutes, which were published and circulated. Some members felt that October’s informal notes should be published for transparency, but others argued they lacked sufficient detail and could cause confusion. Consensus was to retain October notes internally, with a commitment to improve minute-taking for future meetings. SB 2. Confirmation & Communication of FAB changes The resignation of Kelly Drury was formally acknowledged, with the FAB expressing gratitude for her contributions. Steve Brain was confirmed as Chair. The FAB and the Club agreed to issue a statement and video regarding the changes., but there was debate about the tone—whether it should be formal or more personal to foster engagement. SB 3. FAB momentum The FAB highlighted concerns about its visibility and impact, noting that previous initiatives had not gained traction. Paul Gallagher advocated for a stronger social media presence, while others cautioned against relying solely on digital engagement, stressing the importance of face-to-face interaction. The club suggested a pre-match FAB presence, which was widely supported. SB/JF/PG 4. Fan Engagement/FAB evening with guests Plans for a fan engagement event before Christmas were discussed. Steve Brain favoured a standalone FAB event to build identity, but others, including Jon Flatman, argued that joint events with the Club would attract more attendees and media coverage. There was debate about the format—whether to focus on informal Q&A or structured panels—and concerns about balancing inclusivity with logistical constraints. Further discussion on this will take place. SB/JF 5. Field of Vision John Bird explained the Field of Vision device for visually impaired fans, costing £625 per season. The device uses tactile vibrations to indicate ball position and possession, with an operator required to track match events via laptop. Members praised the initiative’s inclusivity, but raised concerns about recruiting and training Operators, and whether the technology would be reliable in a busy stadium environment. The Club committed to funding and piloting the device, with a review after launch. JB/SB 6. EFL Sticker Swap Shop 2 Claire Carlton proposed Panini sticker swap sessions at home games, starting with the Leyton Orient match. Members supported the idea, noting its potential to engage younger fans. Some cautioned about safeguarding and supervision, suggesting that volunteers be recruited to oversee swaps. John Bird agreed to promote the initiative in match-day communications and ensure appropriate oversight. CC/JB 7. EDI Survey – Feedback/update The club reported 2,400 responses to the EDI survey (78% male, 22% female). Phil Hall questioned whether the survey reached underrepresented groups and suggested targeted outreach. The Club agreed to analyse the data and compare census benchmarks, but acknowledged that further work was needed to address gaps. There was consensus that the EDI Code of Practice should be widely publicised and regularly reviewed. PH/JB 8. Group Bookings The Club are planning a discounted ticket scheme for groups of 15+ at £15 per adult. Paul Gallagher highlighted the potential for engaging London-based supporters, while Claire Carlton suggested leveraging grassroots networks. Some members raised concerns about the impact on season ticket holders. The Club responded that group sales are standard in other sports and can boost attendance but agreed to monitor feedback. JB/PG 9. BFC – A Visual History Steve Brain described the Visual History project, and advised that Julian Germain, the Author would be happy to attend the next FAB meeting. Jon Flatman explained that the project is driven and financed by Parliament, a club sponsor. Julian will present at a future FAB meeting, with the launch pushed to next year. Some members suggested involving ex-players and supporters in the launch to maximize impact. SB/JF 10. AOB The club reported a 60% cost increase for the Fan Zone, making the build unviable in its original proposed form. Planning issues were also present. The club responded that alternative investments would be prioritised. Paul Gallagher asked about reopening Redfearn’s Bar; Jon Flatman explained this depends on ticket office refurbishment and council plans. There was debate about the timing and communication of these changes. 11. Date for December Meeting Members agreed to share availability via WhatsApp, with Steve Brain to propose a date. Some suggested alternating meeting formats (in-person vs. virtual) to improve accessibility and engagement. Closed – 19:31 Action Items Action Log Responsible Due Date Invite Julian to a future meeting SB Next meeting Share EDI summary report JB Next meeting Promote sticker swap shop before fixture on 13th Dec JB 13th Dec Order field of vision devices JB Feb/Mar 2026 Finalise and publish the group booking details JB Next meeting Research a raffle/competition platform PG Next meeting Draft first engagement campaign SB Next meeting Finalise and share the FAB changes statement SB End November Next Meeting Date: TBC Time: TBC Location: Microsoft Teams/In- person 3 Source: https://fab.barnsleyfc.co.uk/meetings/2025-11-25