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Frequently Asked Questions

What is an IPS?

IPS stands for Industrial & Provident Society, the legal structure detailing the constitution or set of rules on which FC United of Manchester was established in 2005.

Why is it important that FCUM is an IPS?

By adopting an IPS structure, amongst other things, FC United is a one-member- one-vote club. The IPS is important because it dictates that every member owns an equal share in the club and has an equal say in how it is run and who runs it.

What is the AGM?

The AGM is the club's Annual General Meeting held each autumn; the club holds a further General Meeting in the Spring.

What is decided at the AGM?

The AGM decides the overall policy and direction of the football club which guides the club board in the day to day running of the club. At the club's AGM ideas and suggestions from members and the club board are voted on by the club's members. The AGM also gives members the opportunity to stand for and be elected to the club board.

What are members allowed to vote on?

Members have the opportunity to vote on resolutions put to the meeting by their fellow members or the club board. For example, at FC United's first AGM the club's members decided that no sponsorship will appear on the first team playing shirt. Other matters such as ticket prices and whether the club should introduce a new playing shirt are also decided on at the AGM. Members also have the opportunity to vote for those members standing for election to the club's board.

How is the board elected?

Using the one member-one-vote-system an FC United member has the opportunity to vote for their chosen candidates either at the AGM, using the ballot papers provided, or by post in advance of the meeting. Any member can stand for election to the club's board with the support of fellow members. Nominations are requested in the club's AGM notice to all members and must be submitted 45 days in advance of the AGM.

How does a member submit a resolution to General Meeting?

If a member wishes to submit a resolution to the wider membership then they can do so at one of the club's general meetings. The club holds general meetings for the consideration of club business twice a year, once in the spring and once in the autumn. A resolution should be submitted at least 45 days in advance of a General Meeting. In line with best practice elsewhere and to ensure the seriousness of each proposal the resolution requires the support of at least five additional members.

How do I raise a question for the board?

Any member can submit suggestions or questions to the board at anytime. These should be directed to the FC United Board via the club office: Broadhurst Park, 310 Lightbowne Road, Moston, Manchester, M40 0FJ or by email office@fc-utd.uk.

What does the board do?

The board are responsible for deciding the strategy and direction of FC United and make collective decisions about wider issues which affect the football club and its members.

Do Board members get paid?

No, the role is an entirely voluntary one.

What do board members do?

Board members meet at least once a month to review all areas of the clubs performance and discuss the strategies needed to drive the club forward. Board members are also involved in daily discussions about the running of the football club.

I have a concern about the way the club is run, what should I do?

The board of FC United, strive to run the club in the interests of its members. If any member has concerns about how the club is being run the board encourages members to contact the office by post via the club office: Broadhurst Park, 310 Lightbowne Road, Moston, Manchester, M40 0FJ or by email office@fc-utd.uk.

I have idea's that would make the club better, what should I do?

As above, if any member has ideas which they feel could contribute to the success of the football club the board encourages them to contact the office by post via the club office: Broadhurst Park, 310 Lightbowne Road, Moston, Manchester, M40 0FJ or by email office@fc-utd.uk.

How do I volunteer?

FC United relies heavily on its army of volunteers. If you wish to volunteer your time and expertise to FC United and help in any way then please contact laura.bagley@fc-utd.uk current volunteering opportunities can be found here.

You say the club will avoid outright commercialism, why do you sell merchandise?

The club sells merchandise to raise funds for the club. These funds are used to help run and develop the football club, for example the establishment of youth and reserve teams, as well as community based initiatives. The board of FC United, in keeping with the club's core principals, is committed to ensuring that merchandise is only made available as long as supporters are keen to put money into their football club. All profits generated from official merchandise is put back into the club.

Who are the board of FC United?

Current board members can be found here.