Chelsea FC has announced its fan engagement plan for the 2024/25 season, highlighting the growth of its Supporter Relations department and various initiatives.

This plan represents the second iteration by the Premier League club, as part of the league’s mandated efforts to foster meaningful, long-term engagement with fans. The Premier League introduced the Fan Engagement Standard in November 2022.

An aspect of this season’s plan that the club has emphasised in its announcement is the expansion of its Supporter Relations department. The key roles within the department include the Head of Supporter Relations, Supporter Liaison Officer, Disability Access Officer, Residents Relations Officer, Senior Supporter Services Manager, Supporter Services Manager and Supporter Services Coordinator.

Additionally, the department includes a Nominated Board Level Official and Co-Chair of the Fan Advisory Board, which is Lord Daniel Finkelstein OBE and Tracy Brown, respectively.

Brown said: “As Co-Chair of the Fan Advisory Board, I’ve seen first-hand how crucial fan engagement is to the lifeblood of this club. Our supporters are more than just spectators – they are an integral part of the club’s identity.

Brown said: “As Co-Chair of the Fan Advisory Board, I’ve seen first-hand how crucial fan engagement is to the lifeblood of this club. Our supporters are more than just spectators – they are an integral part of the club’s identity.

“Through our Fan Engagement Plan, we aim to create a meaningful dialogue that goes both ways, ensuring that fans feel heard, valued, and connected to the club in every aspect.”

Alongside a restructuring designed to enhance collaboration with fans, the plan outlines several initiatives for fan engagement in the 2024/25 season. These include the newly launched Matchday WhatsApp channel, the Premier League Fans Fund, My First Game and Pride in Our Bridge, among other initiatives.

Notably, the club has revealed the relaunch of its Chelsea Disabled Supporters Association and the creation of new access guides for its stadiums, as well as key details on heritage assets and supporter services.

Since taking over the club in 2022, Todd Boehly has encountered significant criticism from fans regarding his management of Chelsea.

Recent rumours emerged suggesting that the future of Chelsea was uncertain, as majority owners Clearlake Capital are reportedly interested in purchasing Boehly’s 13% minority stake in the club. This move aims to diminish his influence within the organisation.

If this comes to fruition, supporters will undoubtedly want a say in the operations of their club, which this plan aims to achieve.

“Over the last 12 months we have established a dedicated Supporter Relations Team and we are excited to be able to provide more resources for this most critical relationship with our supporters,” Lord Finkelstein, concluded.

“There is much work to be done and it is vital our supporters are represented when we are considering long-term plans for the club. Our Fan Advisory Board looks to achieve exactly this through in-depth consultation across a number of strategic issues.

“I am looking forward to the implementation of our Fan Engagement Plan throughout the 2024/25 season as we continue to work hard to provide our supporters with a valued and impactful voice.”