During this current season, the Leeds United Supporters Network (LUSN) membership has often queried why the Network doesn't have a seat on the Supporters Advisory Board (SAB).

The SAB agenda is set and Chaired by Leeds United. Those supporters who hold a seat at this meeting were selected as individuals by the Club and will meet with the Board every four weeks for 90 minutes at Elland Road, acting as a touchpoint between the Club and supporters by delivering feedback, taking part in key discussions, and being involved in various projects – ensuring our loyal fans always have a say.

The individuals selected are not representatives of the broader supporting groups. They are not involved in key decisions only minor agenda items. The opinions obtained reflect the views of the club selected individuals almost as a focus group.

Leeds United, initially did not invite the LUSN to hold a seat at this meeting, even though it did so before it was remodelled by the Club last season. The Club later did offer LUSN a seat at this meeting but after discussion we declined the offer on the basis that the Terms of Reference for this meeting did not meet our aims.

The Club later agreed that the Network would directly communicate with the Club and meet with our representatives throughout the year as and when the Club or the Network requires. Therefore, the Network and its Membership set the agenda for these meetings. 

The Network also has a clear line of communication with the relevant Board Members for issues that can be quickly resolved or clarified through direct email exchange. 

This arrangement has been successful for the Network and therefore does not require a seat at the SAB.

The SAB is primarily for the Club to seek feedback from individual supporters and does not offer the opportunity for supporters to raise questions or concerns other than what is on the Club's set agenda at those meetings. 

Most of our Membership is match-attending Supporter Groups, and the Network aims to enhance their match-day experience. We will continue working with Leeds United and its Board to ensure our supporters' opinions and concerns are raised and discussed at the proper levels relevant to the Club and the Network's Membership. 

We hope this clarifies to the Membership why the Network is not a member of the SAB. 

If you would like further clarification on this, please email Chairman@LUSN.co.uk