Trust minutes: 22nd July

Monday saw the Trust’s monthly metingHere’s a brief review of what took place. 

Membership totals have hit 386 for the season. However, this did not include those who signed up in the past week, so the actual total is expected to be well in excess of 400 when the figures are updated. A number of lapsed members have been written to in the past week encouraging them to sign up for the 2019-20 season. 

The meeting with the club from last week was discussed by the group. It was agreed to support the Xmas activities that the club were planning rather than hosting an independent event. Investigations would take place and quotes obtained to support this, with decisions to be taken at the next meeting. Other issues surrounding the meeting was discussed, including members feedback on this meeting with actions for the Trust to follow up. 

Planning for next week’s Fans Forum was discussed. The club would be contacted this week to ensure everything was in place for the traditional season curtain raiser. Doors open at 7pm with the event starting at 7:30pm. 

Preparation for the Trust’s AGM is well underway. We are looking at November as a possible date, but work is taking place getting the annual report formalised. 

This season’s work with our Welfare section was discussed. There are two key areas being looked at right now – Melanoma and Mental Health. 

We discussed our first matchball sponsorship which will take place when we host Blackpool in August. We agreed to follow up on previous work by inviting a former Dale player to join the Trust. A top three wishlist was agreed upon and work was started on making contact. A members’ draw would take place on the Friday ahead of the Blackpool game. 

The previous meeting had started conversations about a Trust Gin Festival. Research has taken place, and in the next month, it is hoped to secure a venue. We are initially looking at hosting such an event in July 2020. 

Discussions took place regarding a response from the Trust to the changes in pricing at the kiosks at the ground. A number of members and supporters had contacted the Trust following Sunday’s game. Contact had been made with the club on Sunday. The club had replied and we discussed how we would follow up on this.  

Next meeting: Wednesday 28th August.