Bury FC will be “reviewing” their volunteering practices after a long-standing volunteer was suddenly dismissed.
John Raftery has been volunteering at Gigg Lane for “many years” and was informed by CEO Neil Sears on Wednesday, November 6, that his services were no longer required.
In a statement, John said: “What happened to me yesterday not only surprised me but knocked me for six and really brought me to tears.”
He shared that when asked for a reason behind the decision, Mr Sears “could not provide one".
The volunteer claimed that club chairman, Marcel De Matas, said that it was not a decision of the board to remove him as a volunteer.
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John also said that he received text messages from board members who were not aware of the decision to remove him from his duties.
The club released a statement on Friday, November 8 after receiving “a lot of feedback from supporters”.
It said: “We have been in regular contact with John since Wednesday, both offering apologies for the upset caused and working on the solution to move forward.
“A conversation was had between a member of the board and CEO Neil Sears regarding John’s role.
“This led to confusion, miscommunication and caused unnecessary stress on a volunteer. We greatly regret this action.
“In line with current structure at the club, football chair Marcel De Matas has taken responsibility in trying to bring about a resolution to this unfortunate situation.
⚪🔵 Club Statement: Volunteer Roles
— Bury Football Club (@buryfcofficial) November 8, 2024
📄 https://t.co/RjENFkMP80 pic.twitter.com/aUjzlY07gV
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“We can confirm that John Raftery is welcome to continue in his current role as a volunteer, both during the week at Gigg Lane and on our hospitality reception on matchdays.
"John will come back to us on this, once he has had chance to consider the offer.”
John added: “For me personally I am devastated. I still do not know for what reason I was dismissed or by whom as there are conflicting stories.
“I have been overwhelmed and rather humbled by the support I have received.
“I have been asked to return as a volunteer but do not feel that I can until I know the truth. Even then I do not know if I can.
“Until the truth is known I do not believe that any individual should be blamed.”
He also shared his support for Bury FC first team manager, Dave McNabb, staff and players.
The club acknowledged that the incident was a mistake and a “function of poor communication and decision-making within the club” and promised to “do more” to ensure it does not happen again.
Bury FC also revealed that they are in the process of reviewing all of their volunteer roles.
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They stated that their primary concern is “always safety and security in the stadium”, however, expressed concerns about staff and volunteers going “beyond what is expected of them” and causing problems.
Bury FC added: “We welcome supporters working with the club to achieve an environment which helps it prosper and thank all for their patience whilst we have dealt with any club matters both privately, and as promptly as possible.”
John was happy for his post to be used in this article.
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