AGM – 21st June 2026

• Meeting attended by: Barry Ross (Chair), Claire Barrett (Social Secretary & Safeguarding), Lynn Anderson (Committee Member), Antony Linford (Committee Member), Riley Barrett (Youth Representative) and 10 other members (names withheld for privacy).
• Apologies: Kerys Harrop (Patron), Lynda Courts (Treasurer), Darren Harris (Social Media), Ellie Yates (LGBTQ+ Representative), Andrew Whitlock (Social Secretary), Peter Milner (Committee Member), Sadie Miller (Youth Representative) and four other members (names withheld for privacy).

1. Barry Ross (Chair) welcomed everyone to the Annual General Meeting of the Birmingham City Women’s Supporters Group. He introduced himself as well as Claire Barrett (Vice-Chair, Safeguarding and Secretary), Lynn Anderson and Antony Linford (Committee Members) and Riley Barrett ( Youth Representative).
2. BR ran through the activities from the last season:
   • Shared the Disability Annual Survey from Level Playing Field.
   • Invited by Bik Singh to join him on stage as he collected the 2025 Fans For Diversity Award in the women’s game on behalf of Blues 4 All, at their event held at The Emirates in September.
   • In conjunction with Blues 4 All, we held a Watch Party at The Maggies for our away game at Sunderland in September.
   • Handed out 500 samosas for Blues 4 All before the designated Diwali game against Charlton in November.
   • Raffled a replica Women’s Euro Final shirt, signed by Lauren Hemp, which raised over £300.
   • Met with Georgie, founder of Help Harry Help Others to see how we could work together.
   • Had a stall at the Women’s Football Fair in Birmingham in November, where we were joined by Lindsay, founder of Just A Ball Game on our stand. Riya Mannu attended the event to support us and to join in their Q&A.
   • Launched our first Supporters Group scarf as the club shop doesn’t sell them. Gave one to Amy Merricks who insisted on a picture with it. The resulting social media posts resulted in many sales.
   • Worked with a number of publishers who offered giveaways to our group members.
   • Shared a number of surveys on women’s football to our group.
   • Were asked to become a member of the Independent Blues Supporter Clubs, who have thousands of followers. Our first collaboration with them was to help collect donated Easter Eggs to bring some joy to care home children at Easter.
   • Organised a Supporters Group coach with Blues 4 All to the away game at Durham in February. The cost was subsidised by a grant from Fans For Diversity.
   • Invited to discuss new Womens stadium with the architects.
   • Organised a number of social get-togethers at the Son Caney Cuba Bar.
   • Raffled a signed Blues Annual signed by the majority of our players.
   • Organised a Supporters Group coach to our final away game of the season at Charlton. Partied all the way there, and all the way back again after becoming WSL2 Champions.
   • Had a table at the Players Awards where we presented Lily Crosthwaite with our Supporters Group Player of the Season award, and Christie Harrison-Murray & Lucy Quinn with Outstanding Service awards.
   • Continued working on the Football Supporters’ Association (FSA) Women’s Network and attending regular Zoom meetings, as well as the FSA AGM earlier this month.
   • Increased our Social Media following to over 2,300 on Facebook and over 1,200 on Twitter.
   • Continued to send out our monthly newsletter to our members.
   • Once again, we attended every home & away league & cup game last season.
   • Continued to grow the number of members of our Supporters Group.
3. BR, in the absence of LC, provided an update on the group’s accounts for the 2025/26 season.
   • Opening balance for the year was £900.88.
   • £1750 was spent on coach transport, with £1245 brought in from coach tickets; a loss of £505.
   • £456 was spent on custom scarves, with £600 brought in from their sales, a profit of £144.
   • £94 was spent on raffle costs, including the lottery license, with £398.24 raised, a profit of 304.24.
   • £111 was spent on graphics & stationary.
   • £100 was given to the Blues Foundation.
   • £508 was raised through miscellaneous donations.
   • £11.99 was spent on ongoing website costs.
   • £53 was spent on the new Blues Women Supporters Group flag which featured across the season.
   • £106.69 was spent on the custom player awards for Lily Crosthwaite, Lucy Quinn and Christie Harrison-Murray.
   • Closing balance for the year stands at £1022.44.
4. BR outlined the objectives for the upcoming season.
   • Consider more coaches for away games in the WSL.
   • Continue with regular social get togethers.
   • Look into merchandise opportunities for our group if the club shop doesn’t sell them.
   • Continue working with the FSA Women’s Network and Fans For Diversity
   • Build on relationships that we have initiated last season.
   • Look for joint initiatives with other groups.
   • Continue to help those who need our help.
   • Continue to increase our membership.
   • Stay true to our values.
5. BR then opened a discussion with attendees asking what they would like to see from the supporters group next season.
6. AL shared that a member of the Blues Women OSC had tragically passed away and could we look into organising flowers/message on the big screen at St Andrews. BR and AL will look into what can be done.
7. Carol and Stacey Smith mentioned that here have been several accessibility concerns this season and it would be beneficial if there could be an Accessibility Officer on the committee to address these types of issues. This lead into a wider discussion about accessibility and it was noted hat there needs to be a dedicated sensory room at St. Andrew’s.
8. We then moved onto the committee elections where the following positions were up for election: Chair, Vice-Chair, Secretary, Safeguarding Lead, Social Media Secretary, Treasurer, Social Secretary, LGBTQ+ Representative, Young Committee Representative and general Committee Members.
9. BR announced that Lynda Courts was stepping down as treasurer after six years and expressed how grateful he and the committee were for all of her hard work and dedication to the supporters group.
10. The following members were elected/re-elected:
    • Barry Ross was re-elected as Chair
    • Claire Barrett was re-elected as Vice-Chair, Secretary and Safeguarding Lead
    • Lynn Anderson was elected as Treasurer
    • Darren Harris was re-elected as Social Media Secretary
    • Andrew Whitlock was re-elected as Social Secretary
    • Ellie Yates was re-elected as LGBTQ+ Lead
    • Carol Smith was elected as Accessibility Representative
    • Sadie Milner and Riley Barrett were re-elected as Youth Representatives
    • Peter Milner and Anthony Linford were re-elected as Committee Members.
11. Any Other Business
    • The only other item that was raised here was the subject of fundraising ideas and sponsorship. Barry welcomed any new ideas for fundraising and sponsorship for the upcoming season.
12. The meeting was drawn to a close and and there was a round of applause for the newly elected committee members. Barry thanked those in attendance for coming and welcomed everyone to stay to continue our promotion celebrations.

AGM – 10th August 2025

• Meeting attended by: Barry Ross (Chair), Claire Barrett (Social Secretary & Safeguarding), Lynda Courts (Treasurer), Darren Harris (Head of Social Media) and 10 other members (names withheld for privacy).
• Apologies: Kerys Harrop (Patron) and Ellie Yates (Community Lead)

1. Barry Ross (Chair) opened the AGM with a welcome and an introduction to the current committee members.
2. BR then gave an overview of last year’s activities.
   • Attended Open Day Training Session in August
   • Had a social get together in the Globe & Ball with Hope Powell & Amy Merricks joining us for a Q&A.
   • Coach travel was organised, in conjunction with Kaylie Jennings, Blues Women Marketing Manager, for the away games at Bristol City, Sheffield United & Southampton.
   • Darren Harris bought the 1st season ticket and was invited to watch the team train in September.
   • Held a social in the Globe & Ball with a Q&A with Christie Harrison-Murray in November.
   • Organised a social get together at the Son Caney Bar in June.
   • Filled two tables at the Supporters Awards night again for the 2024/25 season.
   • Presented our first Supporters Group Player of the Season Award to Neve Herron at the Player Awards.
   • Our social media following increased to over 1,800 on Facebook and over 1,200 on Twitter/X.
   • We continued to send out our monthly newsletters to our members.
   • Helped Sadie the Bluenose increase her YouTube subscribers from 30 to over 200.
   • Supporters Group flag was at every home and away game; when our U21 Academy won the PGA Cup Final and across the Euros in Switzerland.
   • A number of members were interviewed by numerous national and local radio programmes during the Euros.
   • We continued to work alongside Blues 4 All to increase attendance, inclusion and diversity at our games.
   • We have continued to be active with the Football Supporters Association (FSA) Women’s Network.
   • Attended the FSA AGM in Manchester.
   • Shared an invitation to see the Women’s Euro Trophy before it left for Switzerland.
   • Consulted on discussions about league increases and suspension of relegation from WSL.
   • Started consultation with Rochdale Supporters Trust to help them engage more local girls into
   • playing football.
   • Group membership has increased to almost 200 now.
3. BR announced that Blues legend Kerys Harrop had agreed to become the group’s patron.
4. Next BR provided an update regarding the Women’s Official Supporters Group and thanked the members for their support over the past year.
   • Became part of the OSC in July 2024.
   • Struggled to organise anything as we had to go through the OSC leaders who had no contacts with our Women’s team.
   • Decided to leave the OSC set up in January due to differences in values.
   • Brought back our Supporters Group in February after requests from our members.
5. Lynda Courts then provided an update of the 24/25 accounts.
   • £6.07 was refunded to former chair CH for the drinks they provided for the previous AGM.
   • £53 was spent on the new Blues Women Supporters Group flag which featured across the season.
   • £40 was spent on the player of the season award, which was given to Neve Herron.
   • Our current funds stand at £900.88
6. BR returned to give an overview of the objectives for the upcoming season.
   • Build on all of our previous activities.
   • Work closely with Blues Marketing and Social Media contacts.
   • Investigate ways to increase our attendance at away games.
   • Increase number of social get togethers.
   • Investigate merchandise opportunities.
   • Continue to help those who need our help.
   • Continue to increase our membership.
   • Stay true to our values.
7. BR then opened the floor for any ideas for the coming season.
   • CH asked if there was any plans to release any of the content from when the women’s team celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2018. LC/BR explained it would be worth talking to Debbie Fletcher (former player and author) who still regularly attends games about this.
   • LC also mentioned that it was worth speaking to the Blues Matters team who organised the Blues Antique Roadshow event last month to see if they can assist.
8. We then moved onto the committee elections where the following positions were up for election: Chair, Vice-Chair, Secretary, Safeguarding Lead, Head of Social Media, Treasurer, Social Secretary, LGBTQ+ Lead, Youth Representatives and general Committee Members.
   • Barry Ross was re-elected as Chair
   • Claire Barrett was elected as Vice-Chair, Secretary and Safeguarding Lead
   • Lynda Courts was re-elected as Treasurer
   • Darren Harris was re-elected as Head of Social Media
   • Andrew Whitlock was elected as Social Secretary
   • Ellie Yates was elected as LGBTQ+ Lead
   • Sadie Milner and Riley Barrett were elected as Youth Representatives
   • Lynn Anderson, Peter Milner and Anthony Linford were elected as Committee Members.
9. BR asked if there could be a round of applause for our newly elected committee members.
10. Any Other Business
    • Safeguarding issues surrounding the last home game of the season (vs London City Lionesses)
      • Concerns were raised as parents were seen taking their children home/away from the stands due to foul language and behaviour. An LCL fan also reported homophobic and racist chants from Blues fans to the club.
      • We discussed that we would definitely benefit from having a designated area for Away Fans especially in light of the fact that we may have a home tie vs Aston Villa in the cup where mixed seating will not be able to go ahead.
      • Lynda suggested block 32 as a suitable area for the away fans to be housed and it would be made easier if a note could be added advising where to purchase as an away fan on the club’s website. Lynda/Claire/Barry to action talks with the club.
    • Coach Travel
      • Members agreed that it may be worth looking into offering a coach service again. £15 per head was thought a reasonable price.
      • Lynda explained that if travelling longer distances and with families toilets are a necessity and may drive up the price.
      • Barry explained that we may be eligible for some funding from the FSA. Barry/Claire to action next steps.
    • Social Media Promotion
      • Sadie Milner offered to promote the Supporters Group via her YouTube channel.
    • BR explained that we will add a separate section in the Supporters WhatsApp Community for Lionesses matches. This will enable us to coordinate group purchases of tickets to games which may access a discount.
      • Barry has since created this.
    • Ellie Yates via Barry Ross queried the new ruling/guidance about Trans people using toilets at the ground. What are the club doing to address this? Also the point was raised about how the club will manage any possible protests around Trans Women playing football.
      • Claire to contact the clubs EDI (Equality, Diversity and Inclusion) Lead.
    • Rainbow Laces Campaign
      • The group has previously taken part in this campaign. Members were keen to take part this season but were unsure where to enquire. Ellie Yates may have a contact from her work with Chesterfield Football Club.
    • Birmingham Pride
      • Members suggested having a stall or taking part in the parade. The LGBTQ+ OSC will be able to assist with this as they took part this year.
      • Barry/Claire/Lynda to contact the relevant parties.
11. BR then gave a closing statement thanking members for attending and expressed his excitement for the upcoming season.

AGM – 19th May 2024

• Meeting attended by: Craig Hadley (Chair), Barry Ross (Secretary), Lynda Courts (Treasurer), and eleven other members (names withheld for privacy).
• Apologies: Carol Smith (Vice-Chair) and Ellie Yates (Community Lead)
• Introductions, Achievements, Financial Report, Objectives, Questions from floor, Committee Elections, Any Other Business

1. Meeting started by CH who welcomed everyone to the AGM and introduced the current committee to those present.
2. CH updated all about the group activities over the last 12 months.
   • In November we supported Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign in connection with the club. We helped hand out the laces as well as supporting the cause by wearing as many colours as possible.
   • We continued to run our pre-game meetups, this year at The George before home games. We didn’t publicise as much as last season because there was so much else going on in the Kop car park this season, which allowed supporters to meet there.
   • The newsletter has continued to be a big hit. BR has made sure we regularly email it to our members, and it’s always packed full of information.
   • Group members have increased during the season from around 90 to over 120.
   • This year we increased our fundraising activities for the group. As we don’t currently charge a membership fee it’s important to do what we can to raise money for projects. We took the money we raised from raffling Lucy Jones’ shirt last season towards sponsoring Neve Herron this season. As a result, we were able to raffle Neve’s signed shirt and a place at the sponsor’s lunch and raise £145. We also had two hospitality prizes to give away in the fantastic Alliance Lounge which raised £214 and a signed team poster we raffled off for £70. Overall, we raised £429 to help fund future activities.
   • We produced some limited edition merchandise to commemorate Harriet Scott’s time at Blues, in conjunction with Laura Burton who allowed us to use her photograph for the shirt design. Blues player Lucy Quinn was seen wearing it on matchday.
   • We may not have achieved our away coach trips this year but the supporters that have travelled have been incredible. A lot of familiar faces popping up in photos at every away game this year and that’s great to see. I know the players appreciate it.
   • We’ve worked closely with the marketing team in trying to create a better atmosphere at St Andrew’s. As part of that we were given a drum to generate more noise at matches. None of us really have musical backgrounds, Steve and Yvonne excluded, so it’s been a bit of a learning curve. Big thanks to LC and BR for giving it a go this season.
   • The club kindly gave us a dedicated match fixture earlier this season. As part of that they produced some glossy songbooks that we were given to hand out. We were also interviewed by the stadium announcer during half-time about the group and how to join.
   • We’ve continued to showcase the talents of our members including photographer Laura Burton who won supporter of the season, Sadie the Bluenoses’ Vlog and Stephen Gill who has a regular blog following matches.
   • We’ve continued open communications with the club on issues/queries we have had throughout the year. Special thanks to Ayesha, Sam, Kyle, Harrison and Sarah in that regard.
   • We’ve continued to work with the Football Supporters Association to have a voice on national issues in the women’s game.
   • Updating our supporters group website with the latest and relevant information such as squad numbers, new songs etc.
   • Continued to update our extensive database of match stats to help highlight player milestones such as Lucy Quinn reaching 100 games for the club this year.
   • And finally… We organised two tables of Blues Women supporters at this year’s Player Awards. Credit to BR for organising this as it’s the first time since it became a combined event that we’ve had this level of interest from the fans.
3. CH passed over to LC who went over the accounts for the supporters group.
   • £20 had been spent on re-registering the group with the local council to allow us to continue organising online raffles.
   • £429.22 had been raised through our sponsored player, Neve Herron, shirt raffle & sponsors lunch, 2 places to enjoy Alliance Lounge hospitality on a match day and a team signed poster (kindly organised by Christie Harrison-Murray)
   •  Our current funds stand at a healthy £995.95.
4. CH went over the objectives the group set at last year’s AGM and spoke on the progress of each of them.
   • Continue to look into ways we can help attract more fans to the Blues games (Ongoing)
   • Gauge interest in carpools for next season and aim to do at least one away coach trip (partly done)
   • Continue to produce a regular newsletter, sponsor a player and run meet-ups pre-match (Done)
   • Work with the club to setup twice yearly meetings to discuss any ongoing issues we may have as a group (Blues Matters – Ongoing)
   • Look to create more merchandise for the supporters’ group that will help us to be more visible (Ongoing)
   • Organise a supporter’s group table at the player’s awards next year (Done)
   • Push for representation at every Blues forum as we are often forgotten about in lieu of other groups. Focus still on the men’s team over the women’s (Ongoing)
5. CH went on to list the objectives for the upcoming year.
   • Work closely with those on the Blues Matters working group to help boost attendances at women’s matches.
   • Work with the club, particularly Zainab, to run away coaches next season to a number of matches.
   • Continue to produce a regular newsletter and run pre-game meetups.
   • Look to create more merchandise for the supporters’ group that will help us to be more visible.
   • Work with the club in the process of transitioning from the Official Supporters Group to become part of the wider Official Supporters Club and everything that entails.
6. CH opened the floor to ideas on what the group would like to see them do in the next year and we discussed the following:
   • Programme sales inside the ground rather than just in the club shop.
   • Free programmes at the first home game to increase interest in them.
   • Space in programmes for player autographs.
   • Supporters group page in the programme to increase awareness of our group.
   • Full fixture list, results, appearances, goals etc in programme.
   • Postcards for all players to buy as a set in the shop.
   • Supporters Group table in Kop car park before games to promote the group.
   • Which fan park or parks will be open before Women’s games?
   • Safe access to Kop car park. Cars & pedestrians currently jostling to get in. Open gates next to the club shop to allow safer access for pedestrians.
   • Look at having our own Supporters Player of the Season award.
   • Players Awards – Feedback
     • Why are only Men players on the VIP tables? Why not both?
     • Why are the Men players at the front and the Women’s team on 2 tables halfway down the hall?
     • Too long winded, especially the talking at the beginning.
     • Comedian before the awards didn’t work and he didn’t go down very well.
     • Having Amy Merricks pick the raffle was seen by some as demeaning.
     • Price is too high for many supporters, especially those who would like to bring their children.
     • Could we organise our own Women Players Award event?
     • A number of us did enjoy the awards night but then we had been previously and knew what to expect.
     • We all agreed that it is aimed at sponsors and VIPs and not the main fan base.
   • All of the points discussed including the Player Awards will be fed back to the club.

7. CH explained how the committee election process would work.
8. CH said that he was stepping down as chair and called for anyone else who would like to take over. BR put himself forward and was unopposed, so BR was voted in as the new chair.
9. CS, LC and EY all stood for their current roles with no one opposing them so were voted back in.
10. With BR moving to chair, the secretary role was now vacant. Craig Davies put himself forward and was unopposed so voted in.
11. The position of social secretary was vacant, but nobody stepped forward during the meeting. However, after the meeting Claire Bennett asked what it entailed and volunteered for the role. Therefore, Claire will become our new social secretary.
12. A vote of thanks was given by the attendees to CH for setting up the group and all the hard work that he has put in to get it to where it is now.
13. CH asked if there could be a round of applause for our newly elected committee members.
14. CH thanked everyone who attended the meeting. He hoped that they found it interesting and looked to support us in what we hope to achieve going forward.
15. CH brought the meeting to a close and wished everyone a safe journey home.

AGM – 21st June 2023

• Meeting attended by: Craig Hadley (Chair), Carol Smith (Vice-Chair), Barry Ross (Secretary), Lynda Courts (Treasurer), Ellie Yates (Community Lead) and five other members (names withheld for privacy).
• Introductions, Achievements, Financial Report, Objectives, Committee Elections, Any Other Business & Special Guest: Darren Carter (DC).

1. Meeting started by CH who welcomed everyone to the AGM and introduced the current committee to those present.
2. CH listed off what the group had been up to over the last 12 months.
   • CH attended the first in-person meeting of the Women’s Game Network (a sub-group of the Football Supporters Association) alongside Bik of Blues 4 All. They discussed the impending review into the women’s game that Karen Carney is now a part of.
   • We launched Pre-Kicks (our pre-game meet-up events) to bring the group closer together. In a fan survey we conducted a big percentage of supporters wanted this and we were happy to do so. We worked together with AccessiBlues to ensure they felt welcome at these events.
   • Our email newsletter has been a big hit this year. After initially being started by CH, BR has made it his own and packing it full of information on a regular basis.
   • As a result of a big helping hand from Steve Portman and AccessiBlues we were able to sponsor goalkeeper Lucy Jones this season. CH took a moment to acknowledge just how grateful they all were to him for that assistance. The group raffled off her signed shirt at the final game of the season to raise funds for sponsorship next season. The raffle raised £378.73.
   • A number of our members appeared on the popular evening TV show ‘The One Show’ to react to the Women’s FA Cup draw. They all did a great job representing the group on prime time television.
   • CH praised the efforts of fans to travel to away games this season despite being unable to raise funds for coach trips.
   • CH gave special thanks to the staff at Birmingham City Football Club who has allowed us open communication to discuss issues and queries with the club. CH gave special mentions to Sam Ward, Kyle Adams and Sarah Westwood.
   • CH gave special thanks to Steve W and others who regularly attend the Academy matches to give them the same level of support the group does for the first team.
3. CH passed over to LC who went over the accounts for the supporters group.
   • £65 had been spent on registering the group for its raffle with the local council as well as supplies for advertising materials.
   • £378.73 had been raised through the player shirt raffle to take the current funds to £590.73.
   • LC explained it was the group’s intention to use the money to sponsor another player next season.
4. CH went over the objectives the group set at last year’s AGM and spoke on the progress of each of them.
   • He noted attendances had remained steady in comparison to the previous season at St Andrew’s.
   • He noted that we had been unable to get enough interest for away coaches but praised those that made the trips and drove others.
   • He noted the success of the newsletter and meet-ups.
   • He noted the need to chase up the club about organising twice yearly meetings with the supporters group to air any issues that may arise.
   • He noted in terms of merchandise they had created a few t-shirt designs but it is something to do more of going forward. CS suggested they look at potential ideas at the next available home match.
5. CH went on to list the objectives for the upcoming year.
   • Help to attract more fans to matches.
   • Gauge interest in carpools for next season.
   • Aim to do at least one away coach trip.
   • Continue to produce a newsletter.
   • Sponsor a player.
   • Continue to run meet-ups.
   • Work with the club to setup twice yearly meetings.
   • Create more merchandise.
   • Organise a supporter’s group table at the player’s awards.
   • Push for representation at every Blues forum as we are often forgotten about in lieu of focus on fans of the men’s side.
6. CH opened the floor to ideas on what the group would like to see them do in the next year.
   • He suggested their own end of season player award and a Christmas toy drive at the last home game before the winter break to give toys to those that cannot afford any. Similar to what Real Betis do every year.
7. CS suggested minibuses to away games instead of multiple cars.
   • LC responded by asking about the financial viability of the idea depending on if a driver needed to be supplied by the minibus company or not.
   • BR used an example of a recent trip of his that cost around £25 each for them to travel by minibus and believes it’s still cheaper to go in separate cars for the time being.
   • EY suggested asking the FSA about potential funding for away travel.
8. BR suggested a supporter’s group flag to take to matches and the need to fundraise for that and other projects going forward.
   •  He also told the group he’d spoken to the club’s commercial department and is hopeful for a good price on player sponsorship for next season.
9. CH explained how the committee election process would work. CH, CS, BR and LC all stood for their current roles with no one oppose them so were voted back in.
10. The new position of Community Lead was created with EY voted in unopposed.
11. CH moved onto any other business with Steve W enquiring on the current number of members in the supporters group. BR responded with 90.
12. BR suggested the committee meet on a more regular basis to get things moving. It was agreed that every two months would be reasonable going forward.
13. CH invited DC to give his thoughts on the season just gone.
    • DC thanked the fans for inviting him once again.
    • He thought after the defeat to Sunderland they were out of contention for the league title.
    • He went onto praise the players and staff how they responded after that to go nine unbeaten and an excellent FA Cup run.
14. DC said after their strong end to the season it’s been a lot better for him when it comes to retention of players and getting transfer targets. He stated there is an abundance of players who want to play for this team.
15. DC told us there are a lot of positive things coming out from the takeover involving the women’s side. But believes actions are louder than words so will wait and see.
16. CH asked DC how Siobhan Wilson is doing in her recovery and her mind-set after missing out on the World Cup. DC responded Shiv is doing really well but did possibly the most damage she could have done to her knee. Told us she’s making a lot of progress and is determined to get back as soon as possible.
17. CH asked about potential short-term replacements for Wilson while she’s out. DC says he was looking for more left-sided players anyway and has managed to do that. DC did not name any player in particular but said at least two left-footed players were coming in.
18. CH asked about the potential for more loan signings this season. DC responded by saying he would prefer permanent deals this time around and leave loans as an option later in the season if needed.
    • DC praised those who were on loan with the club last season.
19. CS asked about Kerys Harrop. DC responded by saying he has spoken to her but believes she’s undecided on what the next step for her will be.
20. CS asked when will we know about players who have been retained. DC said they have pretty much agreed deals but the takeover is delaying things. He said retaining Lucy Thomas was crucial with a number of WSL clubs interested. Hopeful we will see some contracts announced within the next few weeks.
21. BR asked about one-year contracts and if that is going to change. DC believes times are changing and he is pretty confident every contract signed this summer will be two-year deals.
22. BR asked about the sister club programme and if it might return to bring pre-St Andrew’s crowds back. DC told us it’s been spoken about and thinks there is a lot more they can do to increase attendances.
23. Steve W asked about Academy players making the step up to first team football. DC said he was big on that being a player to come through the club himself. He is consistently speaking to the Academy staff and rewarding those that are doing well.
    • Praised Layla Banaras for how well she adjusted to first team training and believes sending Delphi Cole on loan in the Women’s National League was getting the best of both worlds whilst still training with Blues.
    • DC also praised Abbi Jenner who has really stepped up in the first team setup.
24. Steve W asked about the news that Academy players being poached. DC spoke about the news that clubs will have to pay compensation for young players for the time spent at academies. He believes it needed to happen given the number of players that have gone to rival clubs in recent years.
25. EY asked about kick-offs in which Blues often kick away from the home fans in the second half, sitting behind the away team dugout and having the players train away from the fans before the game.
    • DC said the warmup is how it was when he came in but is something they can change.
    • On seating arrangements, he said he is uncertain how things might change once The Kop reopens.
    • On the kick-offs DC said he gives players license on which way to kick towards in the first half.
26. John L asked about pre-season friendlies. DC isn’t sure if he can reveal who they are playing but believes the final friendly will be at St Andrew’s. The other games will be at Wast Hills and needs to ask the club if fans can attend those ones too.
27. CH thanked everyone who attended and closed the meeting.

Written Constitution

1.0 Name
1.1 The name of the association shall be “Birmingham City Women Supporters Group”.
2.0 Objectives and Purpose
2.1 To organise the support and encouragement of Birmingham City Women Football Club.
2.2 To give our members a formal route of approaching the club via the Supporters Group
Committee.
2.3 To promote, maintain and value the history and identity of Birmingham City Women FC
and its supporters.
2.4 To set down and encourage the acceptance of a standards of conduct to be observed
by members of the Supporters Group.
2.5 To organise social events, competitions and fundraising to ensure the long-term future
of the Supporters Group.
2.6 To encourage friendly relations with supporters of all football clubs.
2.7 To give our fans a voice on a national level through our membership with the Football
Supporters Association.
2.8 To encourage closer links between players and supporters.
2.9 To be a positive, inclusive and representative organisation, open and accessible to all
supporters of the Club regardless of their age, income, ethnicity, gender, disability, sexuality
or religious or moral belief.
3.0 Membership
3.1 Membership of the Supporters Group will be open to all ages.
3.2 Membership of the Supporters Group will be free of charge.
3.3 Members’ personal details share be stored securely and shall not be passed to a third
party without the member’s written consent, unless there is a local requirement for
Birmingham City Women Supporters Group to do so.
3.4 Membership records shall be kept the Secretary, on behalf of the Supporters Group and
shall be available to all members of the Committee.
3.5 Should the Committee reject an application for membership, the applicant shall be duly
notified and have the right of appeal at the next Committee Meeting.
3.6 Any member bringing Birmingham City Women Supporters Group into disrepute and/or
violating the code of conduct shall render themselves liable to expulsion. A member may be
suspended and recommended for expulsion by a special majority vote of the Committee
but shall not be expelled until the person in question has received a full hearing before a
disciplinary panel established by the Committee. The member shall have a full opportunity
to answer all allegations against them before a decision on expulsion is taking by the panel.
Any member expelled shall have the right of appeal.
4.0 Code of Conduct
All members of the Birmingham City Women Supporters Group shall be committed to:
4.1 Supporting, promoting, and furthering the objectives of the Birmingham City Women
Supporters Group.
4.2 Rejecting violence, abusive behaviour, or discrimination in any form.
4.3 Making Birmingham City Women Supporters Group an inclusive and welcoming group
that represents Birmingham City Women fans from all backgrounds.
4.4 Recognising that decisions made by the Birmingham City Women Supporters Group are
reached democratically by way of ballot, and respecting the outcome of each ballot.
All members of the Birmingham City Women Supporters Group shall be prohibited from:
4.5 Making communications in the name of Birmingham City Women Supporters Group
without express permission.
4.6 Profiting from activity associated with Birmingham City Women Supporters Group.
4.7 Complicating or sabotaging the objectives, activities or communications of Birmingham
City Women Supporters Group.
4.8 Bringing Birmingham City Women Supporters Group into disrepute by any other means.
5.0 The Committee
5.1 The Supporters Group shall be governed by a Committee, which shall comprise of
current members of the Supporters Group.
5.2 The Supporters Group Committee shall comprise of at least three individuals who hold
the roles of: chair, treasurer and secretary; with a maximum limit of 10 members on the
Committee.
5.3 Committee members may hold their positions for a maximum term of one year, before
seeking re-election.
5.4 If a Committee member steps down or is removed from their position for whatever
reason, a new election will be held to name their replacement.
5.5 The Chair shall oversee all Birmingham City Women Supporters Group meetings at
which they are present, they are responsible for ensuring all views of those present are
heard and hold the casting vote in the event of a tie between members.
5.6 In the Chair’s absence, another member of the Committee members will oversee the
meeting.
5.7 The Secretary is responsible for circulating the agenda ahead of meetings as well as
producing minutes for previous meetings.
5.8 The Treasurer shall ensure that adequate financial records are kept, and shall be
responsible for the proper administration of Birmingham City Women Supporters Group
financial affairs.
5.9 The Treasurer shall submit a statement of balances, and an income and expenditure
account, to the AGM every year. The Treasurer is also responsible for ensuring the full
record of financial transactions is audited by two elected officials by the end of the financial
year.
6.0 General Meetings
6.1 An Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Supporters Group shall be held every calendar
year.
6.2 The Secretary shall ensure that all members are sent notification of the date, time, place
and agenda for the AGM not less than fourteen days before it is due to take place.
6.3 The Secretary shall ensure that copies of the minutes of the previous AGM and a
Birmingham City Women Supporters Group Annual Report are available at the AGM.
6.4 The Annual Report shall contain statements on the work of the Birmingham City Women
Supporters Group during the year from the Committee members as appropriate.
6.5 The AGM is the time at which Committee members are voted in or re-elected for
another term.
6.6 An Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) may be called by a minimum of 10, or 50% of
adult members, whichever is the lower, of the Supporters Group to decide matters of major
importance.
6.7 Amendments to the constitution may be proposed by any member of the Supporters
Group.
6.8 Any proposed amendment from a member shall be submitted to the Secretary in writing
not less than seven days prior to the date of the AGM or EGM called for the purpose.
6.9 An amendment shall require a two-thirds majority of members present to pass.
7.0 Finance
7.1 The Supporters Group shall, at all times, ensure that proper books of account are kept
of all transactions connected with the activities of the Supporters Group and shall, once
established, open a bank account and all monies received by the Supporters Group shall be
paid into such account.
7.2 Accounts of the Supporters Group shall be prepared annually.
7.3 All purchases over £10 will need to be sanctioned by the entire Committee, with
purchases over £50 needing the approval of 75% of the Supporters Group.
8.0 Relationship with Birmingham City Women Football Club
8.1 Birmingham City Women Supporters Group is officially recognised by Birmingham City
Football Club.
8.2 The Supporters Group is administratively and financially independent of the football
club.
8.3 We will continue to encourage an active discussion between the Club and the
Supporters Group.
9.0 Establishment
9.1 The Birmingham City Women Supporters Group was formed on June 7, 2020.
9.2 The Supporters Group became members of the Football Supporters Association (FSA)
on June 9, 2020.
9.3 The Supporters Group was officially recognised as the official Supporters Group by
Birmingham City Women Football Club on June 19, 2020.

AGM – 19th June 2022

• Meeting attended by: Craig Hadley (Chair), Carol Smith (Vice-Chair), Barry Ross (Secretary), Lynda Courts (Treasurer) and six other members (names withheld for privacy).

• Agenda: Introductions, Achievements, Objectives, Committee Elections, Any Other Business, Special Guests Sarah Westwood (SW) and Darren Carter (DC).

1. Meeting started by CH who welcomed everyone to the AGM and apologised for taking two years to finally sort one out. He expressed how important the group had been for many over the course of the pandemic.
2. CH listed off the series of achievements the group had managed to do since forming in 2020. These included: virtual meet-ups at the peak of the pandemic for mental health support, joining the Football Supporters’ Association, creating a hype video for the players ahead of the Second City Derby, working on improving communication with the club, organising our first away trip with help from Blues For All and Redditch Blues and liaising with the club in order for a group of fans to attend the Academy’s cup final which was invite only earlier this year.
3. CH then set out the objectives for the group moving forward. These were: to help increase fan attendances, organise more trips for away games, produce a regular newsletter for fans (especially those not on social media), create merchandise (including banners), and host regular meet-ups as a group and to set-up twice yearly meetings with the club to discuss any issues.
4. CH then opened up a discussion about what issues people wanted addressed by the group moving forward. MM urged for caution and to build slowly with the suggestion of moving fans more centrally in the main stand.
5. SH wished to get feedback from the players about what they want from the fans during a game. LC responded with an anecdote about Lucy Quinn and how important the players find hearing the crowd cheering them on throughout a match. LC also pointed out that while the atmosphere was better at Damson Park, the players prefer playing at St Andrew’s. She did however state we need to work on improving that atmosphere at their newer home.
6. SH then brought up the sister club programme which had been beneficial in bringing in young fans in the past. LC agreed it was something to bring back as soon as possible.
7. CS stated she believed that we needed to pick a specific area for supporters’ group members as we are often separated in the lower and upper tiers.
8. SS put forward the case that fans might actually prefer sitting in the Gil Merrick Stand instead of the Main Stand from next season. SH also pointed out that currently the home fans are situated to the side of the away dugout as opposed to the home one in the Main Stand.
9. BCFCW General Manager SM introduced herself and explained the challenge that St Andrew’s had been this year. Stressed the importance of fans cheering on the team. She also stated her preference would be for the fans to be in The Kop but unfortunately that is not possible at the moment. She explained they have discussed moving to the Gil Merrick Stand but is unsure if it could give opposing fans more of an advantage but is willing to consider it. She went on to explain the difficulties of the Main Stand due to the design of the structure and why the current setup allows for better access to facilities for home supporters. She urged us to go away and decide what from a fan perspective we wanted. CH has since sent out a survey to ask this very question.
10. CS emphasised how important the pre-match meet-ups were when Blues played at Damson Park which included the on-site bar. She went on to enquire if they could have Bar 8 open for all home matches. SW explained they delayed opening it earlier in the season due to cost and potential losses due to low numbers. She goes on to say they have since included more activities to entice more people in to make it more cost effective and maximise the whole match day experience. She is hopeful it will be open for all home matches next season with more family-friendly activities involved as well.
11. MM expressed her interest in a pre-match meet-up for fans and to advertise it widely to make the experience of match day the best it can be. She also reiterated the importance of a designated spot for the supporters’ group in the stands.
12. CH then opened up the voting for the committee for the 2022/23 season. As acting chair CH put himself forward for the position of chair and was elected in by the group. CS was then elected in as vice-chair, BR as secretary and LC as treasurer. All members were warmly received by the group.
13. CH then moved onto the constitution which outlines the code of conduct for all supporters’ group members amongst other things. If you would like a copy reach out to a member of the committee and we can provide you with one.
14. CH then opened it out for any other business. CS asked about car parking. SW explained that The Kop car park will be open to all fans from next season with the Main Stand car park reserved and dependant on other activities outside of Bar 8.
15. LC asked about supporters’ group promotion. She had the suggestion of flyers to give out as fans enter the stadium. MM suggested having a contact detail section on the flyer to collect in at the end to join the group immediately.CH added to the idea suggesting a QR code that linked to the sign-up page on the supporters’ group website. CH also posed the idea of a page in the match day programme dedicated to the group. CS suggested putting something in the men’s programme too. LC suggested putting something on the big screen at half-time too. BR suggested we get a mention on the BCFC website also.
16. CH then introduced the first guest SW, who thanked all for the invitation to speak to everyone and for their support for the club throughout the season. She stressed it was important to move on and look forward after a difficult season on and off the pitch. The ambition is to return to the Women’s Super League. She stressed the importance of the connection between the club and the fans. How different it has been since making the move from Damson Park to St Andrew’s. Opens up the room for questions.
17. CH asked how SW has found her job having come into the role in unusual circumstances and working through a pandemic. SW stated she feels more comfortable in the role now and the constant up and down on and off the field is hopefully something they can put behind them. Stressed how hard it is with so much change.
18. CS stressed the annoyance of fans finding out players were leaving on social media or from journalists before the club. SW explained that clubs usually agree a time with both or multiple parties but sometimes it’s out of their control. She cited the Becks Holloway transfer and how Racing Louisville had apologised after breaking the agreed timeframe to announce the departure. She will work with the club’s media team to ensure what they can control they will ensure it’s put out as early as possible and in the right way.
19. SW asked for more social media interactions from the club directly. He posed that if question is asked and it is not embargoed information then it would be beneficial to get a timely response. SW responded by saying she will speak to the media team about this.
20. MM bemoans the lack of local media coverage. He stated previous connections with BBC Radio WM and the need for publications like Birmingham Live to cover the women’s club. SW will look to investigate it further. CH added that with less televised coverage this season in the Women’s Championship, radio coverage could be even more important.
21. BR asked about outdated information on the club website. SW believed the transition to a new web platform has caused issues. They will look to update the website as soon as possible.
22. CH posed the question if Kerys Harrop could be inducted into the Birmingham City Hall of Fame for her services to the club. SW explained the Former Players’ Association is responsible for the hall of fame and they will chase it up.
23. CH then introduced the second guest BCFCW Manager DC who thanked everyone for the invite and the support of the fans has been invaluable since coming into the job. DC insisted how important the noise factor is at matches and would like to see fans on their side of the ground and not those noisy Chelsea fans. He also stated he will make the case for Kerys for potential hall of fame induction.
24. CH asked about the style of play planned for next season. DC believes it will change. Last season we were an out of possession team but would like to see us dominant the ball and better technically.
25. BR asked about contracts. DC joked he’s pestered SW since the last kick of the season. Recruitment well underway but didn’t want to pressure anyone into re-signing. He put across his vision and looks to have the group that he wants now ahead of the new campaign. He’s been in contact with his senior staff for weeks and is hopeful by the end of the week we will see some movement.
26. CS asked about Marcus Bignot. DC stated the situation was far from ideal and it certainly affected things. They are still awaiting the results of the appeal from the FA and the club will proceed accordingly.
27. CH asked about what kind of goalkeepers are they looking at. DC joked they are looking for one that keeps clean-sheets. He praised Emily Ramsey last season but believes Manchester United wish to keep her or send her on loan again in the WSL. DC also believes Lucy Jones has a good future but might not be ready to be the starting keeper at this point. He is also looking for players on the left side and in the centre of midfield.
28. EY asked about the impact of fans. DC believes the more fans that we can bring in the better. Knows the fan base and is driven to push the club back to where it belongs. The support doesn’t go unnoticed with special praise to the fans that made the trip to Durham last season. Coming over at the end of the game was the least he could do.
29. BR asked about the Academy. DC praises Paul Cowie and the Academy setup and loves to see so many coming through. Special mention for Gemma Lawley who deserves all the accolades she got and a right sign of the pathway the club can provide.
30. SW asked about season tickets. SW revealed that we will have news on the women’s season tickets within the next week or so.
31. CH thanked everyone for their contributions and closed the meeting.