Reps from Carlisle United Supporters Groups (CUOSC, Away Travel, Route 66, Disabled Supporters Group and London Branch) meet regularly with club officials to ensure that consultation takes place on key issues affecting fans.
This year we have influenced decisions on the refurbishments to the Sunset Suite and the catering contract.
We supported the club with the sale of season tickets which without doubt generated more sales when our reps telephoned fans. Although only a small number were able to give up their time, those that did made our volunteer army’s effort towards sprucing the ground up much appreciated by the club.
We have made great strides this season in establishing a disabled supporters group and have focused our fundraising initiatives on improving the disabled facilities at Brunton Park. It’s great to see that the disabled fans that watch from the Paddock can now do so under cover.
CUSG reps helped run two very enjoyable Legend’s Evenings at the Old Fire Station and a third one is planned for March. Our volunteers helped out at other events including the two open days and the Fun Day in July.
We used CUSG funds to purchase the Go Pro cameras which have been popular with fans. CUSG chairman Simon Clarkson said: “The level of engagement with the club continues to improve and I firmly believe that we have a good mechanism for making suggestions and working on initiatives together.”
Here's a summary of the key activities of some of the supporters’ groups:
Carlisle United Official Supporters’ Club (CUOSC) recognise that fan engagement must play a central role in not only sustaining Carlisle United but also contributing in developing a growth strategy. Board members engage directly with fellow fans in their match day surgeries and communicate through a weekly column in the News & Star and through social media. They also invite comments and questions via their dedicated phone and email links. Participation in CUSG provides a valuable forum where they can listen and contribute together as fans in dialogue with the club.
The London Branch has always existed as a means of keeping Carlisle United supporters, scattered all over the British Isles and Europe, never mind London and the south east, informed about Branch activities and news from Brunton Park. Being part of CUSG enables greater communication with other supporter groups and fans hopefully to mutual, benefit but most importantly, to play a part in the progress of the football club. Distance means they can’t be as ‘hands-on’ as others, and so they rely more on providing financial support when possible. The ’40 Club’ provides a steady stream of financial support to the Club.
Carlisle United Supporters’ Away Travel (CUSAT) have been fortunate to be able to fill most of their coaches to the away games, including the 16-hour round trip to Gillingham in the FA Cup. However, in the main they are only providing second or third coaches when it’s a local journey (anywhere north of Birmingham), unless demand is such that they can three-quarters fill a coach. Sadly, they still suffer from some people booking and not turning up. In those cases they have to stand the cost but, as they say - that's life.
An excellent weekend was had by all when CUSAT visited Sheffield for the Chesterfield match. On the Friday they visited Chatsworth House before spending an evening at Sheffield dog stadium - don’t know if any fortunes were made but a great night was had by all. Another weekend is planned for the Exeter match, staying in the city. If you want any information regarding these weekend trips please do get in touch on the number below.
For traveller’s convenience nibbles, soft drinks and hot pies are available on the coaches. If you want to take the strain out of driving, then come along and join them - all you have to do is ring 07563 700 987 to book.
