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Football Supporters' Trust

General characteristics

A democratic organisation that draws its members from the community where a particular football team is active, and aims to strengthen links between the club and the local community. Most have a longer term aim of securing shares and voting rights in the company that runs the club with a view to influencing its governance, and perhaps taking ownership eventually.

Ownership: a football supporters' trust is owned by its members, though of course the club to which it is attached will not be - at least to start with. Members are not beneficial owners and do not personally have any access to the organisation's income or assets.

Charitable status: a football supporters' trust will not usually be eligible for charitable status, though some have applied and others may have associated charities to carry out educational or welfare activities.

Examples of use

There is a growing number of football supporters' trusts around the country, represented nationally by Supporters Direct. A few have already taken control of their local football clubs.

Legal forms used

Industrial and provident society (society for the benefit of the community) - a few are companies limited by guarantee.

Profit distribution

None.

Participation issues

Participative issues are mainly focused on the membership. Trusts will seek to attract more members from people who like football.

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