Supporter representatives from the Fan Advisory Board met the Club to ask direct questions on behalf of West Ham supporters.
Below is a record of the key issues raised, the responses given by the Club, and the conclusions supporters can reasonably draw from the discussion.
The question we asked
Supporters asked whether individuals facing bans should be able to see the evidence used against them. The wording of the previous Supporter Conduct Charter stated ‘The individual in question will receive written notice of any sanctions with the supporting evidence and rationale. Information on how to appeal will also be supplied in the same communication.’
The answer given by the Club
The Club agreed in principle but stated that data protection (GDPR) and video evidence rules complicate the process. It also stated that all supporters have a right to appeal any decision.
They said the policy will be reviewed.
What we did not receive
A defined process guaranteeing supporters access to evidence.
What many supporters will hear
There is still no certainty that banned supporters will see the evidence used against them.
Why this matters for supporters
Fair process and transparency are essential when sanctions affect supporters. The Supporter Conduct Charter from last season stated ‘The individual in question will receive written notice of any sanctions with the supporting evidence and rationale. Information on how to appeal will also be supplied in the same communication.’
Conclusion
The Club has agreed to review its policy, but no firm changes have been confirmed.
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