The survey was similar in scope and questioning to one originally run in late 2022 in order to understand our members and their priorities for our ongoing activities in the future.
There were some questions asked in 2022 that we did not repeat this time as they were relevant to issues at the time which are no longer a major concern at present. We added a question this time regarding the membership fee in order to gauge opinion on a proposed increase in the membership fee for 2025-26.
Comments and feedback relevant to questions (such as Travel) have been made available to those on the Trust Board with relevant responsibilities and will shape how we seek to run the Trust in the future.
This members survey and player of the vote was completed 318 times, more than double the 2022 survey. Our total membership for 2024-25 is 1168.
Question 1 asked for name/ membership number
Question 2 How long have you been a Bluebirds Trust member?
Just this season 38 votes (12.2%)
2-3 Years 80 votes (25.7%)
Since we got back in the EFL 31 votes (10%)
5 Years+ 94 votes (30.2%)
Since the start (2014) 68 votes (21.9%)
It is heartening that the majority of those who took part have been with us for a significant period of time.
Question 3 Do you use Trust Travel for away games?
1-5 games a season 86 votes (27.5%)
5-10 games a season 31 votes (9.9%)
More than 10 5 votes
Every game 2 votes
Rarely 37 votes (11.8%)
Never 152 votes (48.65)
The survey was completed by members from all over the world so it should be no surprise that a large number never use Trust Travel as they live well beyond the A590 corridor.
Given the increased costs in recent seasons it is also unsurprising that fewer people are travelling as often as previously (14 votes were 10 + games in 2022). With fewer “local” games next season it remains to be seen if the “once or twice a season” group is as large?
Question 4 Do you or your family/friends take advantage of the discounted Under 16s Trust Travel Offer?
Yes 30 votes (9.6%)
No 253 votes (81.1%)
Other 29 votes (9.3%)
Many of the “Other” comments praise the initiative or were from people who live away and do not use the service. Despite a low positive response rate, the Under 16s discount is well thought of.
Question 5 Trust Travel is?
Excellent 91 votes (29.2%)
Good 60 votes (19.2%)
Could be improved 8 votes
Don’t use it 153 votes (49%)
Those who use it clearly rate it highly.
Question 6 Trust Travel Comments
Many very similar comments and suggestions were received regarding Trust Travel and have been forwarded to those who organise it to digest and take on board.
Question 7 Rate the aims of the Trust in importance to you (listed in highest importance)
To maintain and increase the 10% supporters stake in Barrow AFC
To elect a Trust Representative to the Board of Barrow AFC
Work to ensure that all are welcome and able to attend Barrow AFC games
Be a voice for Barrow supporters, locally and nationally
Provide affordable away travel for all Barrow AFC fans
Work closely with others to support our wider community
A different scoring system was used this time which may not have been clear and accurately reflect the true wishes of the membership.
Question 8 Do you support us in the following ways?
Russ Raffle 249 votes (53.8%)
1901 Club 165 votes (35.6%)
Clubdraw Lottery 49 votes (10.6%)
This is a new question. As expected, the Clubdraw Lottery is less well supported given limited exposure.
Question 9 Increase in the membership fee
Members thoughts on the proposed increase were sought and were overwhelmingly positive.
Question 10 We want to do more for our junior members. Any ideas?
A number of suggestions were received, and have been shared with Frazer to work on with the relevant people at the club
Question 11 Any other comments.
Mainly thanks for the all hard work the Trust does
Question 12 Player of the Season Vote
Sam Foley won the vote and was presented with his award at the club awards night.
Sam Foley 131 votes (41.3%)
Robbie Gotts 93 votes (29.3%)
Kian Spence 23 votes (7.3%)