Steve, who attended the board meeting in a personal capacity, had accepted an invitation following comments made on Twitter last month after the Trust published a statement asking the club to set out its vision going forward.
The informal meeting looked at ways of improving communications between the club, the Trust and supporters generally. The dialogue was positive and it was agreed that better engagement would benefit everyone. Steve agreed to make himself available via email or phone to Trust members to pose questions or relay matters of concern.
Among the issues raised by Steve was how the Trust could help the work of the Cardiff Community Foundation and Academy and other initiatives. It was agreed there was a need for regular dialogue between senior club executives and the Trust and the importance of keeping fans informed of developments within the club and Steve promised to assist in the process.
Steve reaffirmed the commitment of Tan Sri Vincent Tan to Cardiff City Football Club. He was optimistic that with a few changes of personnel the Bluebirds could have a good season in 2015-16.
The issue was also raised of supporter representation on the club board but Steve felt it would be difficult to achieve because of the current structure model of the club with a single owner. But, he accepted, that good communications between fans and the club through the Trust and Supporter’s Club was crucial and vital for the club going forward. He also stated he wished for better collaboration and will look to make sure all parties are involved in end of season events and fans' forums.
Trust board members stressed that they wanted to see a successful Cardiff City and wanted to work with the club. But chair Tim Hartley said that the Trust would continue to raise issues of concern among fans and act as a "critical friend" when necessary. Steve accepted that and the club will continue to invite the Trust and Supporters Club to provide their views at an appropriate forum.
In other Trust news
What went wrong at Cardiff City this season? Can Cardiff City make a promotion challenge next season?
Come and hear the views of Cardiff City legend Jason Perry. BBC Wales soccer commentator, Rob Phillips will ask the questions in a fans’ forum following the Trust’s annual general meeting next month.
The forum will immediately follow the Trust’s AGM at the Llandaff Institute in Cardiff on Thursday, May 21 (7pm). There will also be a talk on the key issues facing supporters and the Supporters Trust movement nationally. Members will also be able to raise any issues with board members.
We look forward to seeing you on the night.
Supporters Summit 2015 with BT Sport
This year’s Supporters Summit, jointly hosted by national fan organisations the Football Supporters’ Federation and Supporters Direct, will take place in Manchester on Saturday, 18th July, (10am start).
The event attracts fans from across Britain who will debate football’s big issues and seek to influence the game for the better. Last year’s event covered ownership issues, Financial Fair Play, kicking racism out of football, ticket prices, away allocations, and more. The event is being supported by BT Sport and The Supporters Club, the broadcaster’s initiative that aims to use sport to improve the lives of disadvantaged youngsters.
If any members would be interested in attending please email members@ccfctrust.org.