Trust Statement: Furlough Scheme

The Bluebirds Trust was recently made aware of the possibility of utilising the furlough scheme. We fed back our concerns through our Board Representative over the use of the scheme, however we understand the business reasons behind the Club’s decision.

Today our Board Representative again spoke to Paul Hornby on this matter so that we could provide as much as is possible.

Although not the position of the Trust to discuss detailed Club HR matters, the feedback we received includes the following:

• Like all businesses the Club has been affected as they have significantly reduced income.

• In normal circumstances, the Club could have loaned players to steps 1 and 2, however this is currently proving extremely difficult due to the uncertainty surrounding the continuation of the National League season.

• If loan or transfer opportunities become possible as in normal times for any players furloughed, the club will support the players concerned in this, despite the likely financial cost to our club of doing so.

From the club’s perspective, this situation amounts to restraint on the Club’s ability to trade. The offers were made to the individuals affected voluntarily as part of a range of options, with no financial disadvantages resulting from it.

We understand the differing opinions on this matter from the fanbase and reflected them. We accept that the decision taken reflects on us as part owners and custodians of Barrow AFC to ensure the stable longevity of the club for our community.

We greatly appreciate and value the support and feedback we receive from the membership and wider fanbase. And so does Paul and everybody else connected to Barrow AFC.