Constitution
1. Name and Purpose
1.1. The supporters' group shall be called Union Golf Road (UGR).
1.2. UGR is an independent supporters' group of Altrincham Football Club (AFC) fans.
1.2. UGR is an independent supporters' group of Altrincham Football Club (AFC) fans.
2. Objectives
Match Days
2.1. Develop and enhance the vocal matchday atmosphere at AFC Men's First Team fixtures.
2.2. Foster an enjoyable and inclusive matchday experience for all supporters.
2.2. Foster an enjoyable and inclusive matchday experience for all supporters.
Club Engagement
2.3. Provide a platform for open and constructive dialogue between members on matters relating to AFC.
2.4. Establish and maintain a two-way communication stream between UGR and AFC Directors and Management.
2.5. Advocate for UGR members' views and encourage AFC to consider these perspectives.
2.4. Establish and maintain a two-way communication stream between UGR and AFC Directors and Management.
2.5. Advocate for UGR members' views and encourage AFC to consider these perspectives.
Services
2.6. Organise supporter services for UGR members and the wider AFC fanbase, including away travel and social events.
Community & Charity
2.7. Support local community initiatives and relevant charitable causes.
Additional
2.8. Affiliate with appropriate football supporters' associations and explore avenues for further support in achieving UGR’s objectives.
3. Core Values
UGR is founded on the following core values, which guide its actions, decisions, and interactions:
3.1. Passion: A shared love for AFC unites us. We support our team with enthusiasm, dedication, and positive energy.
3.2. Community: Football brings people together. We foster a strong, supportive community among members.
3.3. Respect: We treat all members, players, officials, and supporters with respect, regardless of background, beliefs, or affiliations. Discrimination, harassment, and intolerance have no place in UGR.
3.4. Inclusivity: We strive to create a welcoming environment where all members feel valued and heard.
3.5. Responsibility: As active supporters, we act as ambassadors for AFC and uphold a positive image of the club.
3.6. Transparency: Decisions, policies, and finances will be communicated openly and regularly. Financial updates will be provided at member meetings, with accounts prepared annually.
3.7. Independence: UGR operates autonomously, free from external influence. Decisions are based solely on members' interests.
3.1. Passion: A shared love for AFC unites us. We support our team with enthusiasm, dedication, and positive energy.
3.2. Community: Football brings people together. We foster a strong, supportive community among members.
3.3. Respect: We treat all members, players, officials, and supporters with respect, regardless of background, beliefs, or affiliations. Discrimination, harassment, and intolerance have no place in UGR.
3.4. Inclusivity: We strive to create a welcoming environment where all members feel valued and heard.
3.5. Responsibility: As active supporters, we act as ambassadors for AFC and uphold a positive image of the club.
3.6. Transparency: Decisions, policies, and finances will be communicated openly and regularly. Financial updates will be provided at member meetings, with accounts prepared annually.
3.7. Independence: UGR operates autonomously, free from external influence. Decisions are based solely on members' interests.
4. Member Conduct
To uphold UGR’s values, all members must adhere to the following:
4.1. Respect for Others: Treat fellow members, AFC staff, opposition teams, and fans with courtesy and respect. Discrimination, abuse, or harassment will not be tolerated.
4.2. Support and Representation: Support AFC positively at matches and within the community. Represent UGR in a way that aligns with its values.
4.3. Integrity and Honesty: Members must act with honesty and avoid dishonest or unethical behavior.
4.4. Responsible Behaviour: Actions that damage UGR’s or AFC’s reputation are prohibited.
4.5. Reporting Misconduct: Members should report any breaches of this Code of Conduct to the UGR contact address.
4.6. Consequences of Misconduct: Violations may result in suspension or expulsion. Affected members may appeal within seven days.
4.1. Respect for Others: Treat fellow members, AFC staff, opposition teams, and fans with courtesy and respect. Discrimination, abuse, or harassment will not be tolerated.
4.2. Support and Representation: Support AFC positively at matches and within the community. Represent UGR in a way that aligns with its values.
4.3. Integrity and Honesty: Members must act with honesty and avoid dishonest or unethical behavior.
4.4. Responsible Behaviour: Actions that damage UGR’s or AFC’s reputation are prohibited.
4.5. Reporting Misconduct: Members should report any breaches of this Code of Conduct to the UGR contact address.
4.6. Consequences of Misconduct: Violations may result in suspension or expulsion. Affected members may appeal within seven days.
Confidentiality & Discretion
4.7. Members are expected to maintain discretion and respect the confidentiality of sensitive information discussed within UGR meetings or working groups. This includes but is not limited to meeting minutes, financial details, and internal communications that have not been shared with the wider public or media.
4.8. Sharing or disclosing confidential information to non-members or third parties without prior consent may result in disciplinary action. Members should exercise caution and judgment when discussing UGR matters outside of official settings.
4.9. Confidential information will be clearly marked as such and should be handled with the utmost care.
4.8. Sharing or disclosing confidential information to non-members or third parties without prior consent may result in disciplinary action. Members should exercise caution and judgment when discussing UGR matters outside of official settings.
4.9. Confidential information will be clearly marked as such and should be handled with the utmost care.
5. Membership
Eligibility
5.1. Open to all AFC supporters aged 18 and above. See Clause 5.6 for ineligibility criteria.
5.2. UGR offers one paid membership type: Full Membership.
5.3. Membership starts at £3 per month under a "pay-what-you-wish" model. Additional contributions do not grant extra influence. £3 is the suggested monthly contribution to help sustain activities, but larger contributions are welcomed.
5.4. Membership is open year-round via an online registration form. By joining, members agree to uphold UGR’s values and abide by the Member Conduct (4.)
5.5. Payments are collected via direct debit through a third-party membership platform. UGR does not accept cash payments.
5.6. To maintain independence, the following AFC-affiliated individuals are ineligible for UGR membership:
5.2. UGR offers one paid membership type: Full Membership.
5.3. Membership starts at £3 per month under a "pay-what-you-wish" model. Additional contributions do not grant extra influence. £3 is the suggested monthly contribution to help sustain activities, but larger contributions are welcomed.
5.4. Membership is open year-round via an online registration form. By joining, members agree to uphold UGR’s values and abide by the Member Conduct (4.)
5.5. Payments are collected via direct debit through a third-party membership platform. UGR does not accept cash payments.
5.6. To maintain independence, the following AFC-affiliated individuals are ineligible for UGR membership:
- Full-time AFC employees, including directors and staff within Altrincham FC Community Sports.
- Honorary members or past club legends may be considered for membership on an exceptional basis, subject to unanimous approval by the general membership.
5.7. Members may cancel at any time via the registration website.
5.8. Former members may rejoin at any time through the registration website.
5.9. If a member breaches the Code of Conduct, a neutral extraordinary committee will be established to review the case. The committee may issue reprimands, suspensions, or expulsions. Suspensions take effect immediately, with appeals allowed within seven days. The committee will be elected periodically by the general membership to ensure neutrality.
5.8. Former members may rejoin at any time through the registration website.
5.9. If a member breaches the Code of Conduct, a neutral extraordinary committee will be established to review the case. The committee may issue reprimands, suspensions, or expulsions. Suspensions take effect immediately, with appeals allowed within seven days. The committee will be elected periodically by the general membership to ensure neutrality.
Posthumous Membership
5.10. In the event of a member's passing, their family or loved ones may request posthumous membership in recognition of their support for UGR and AFC. This will be granted upon request, and the member's name will be kept on the official membership list as a tribute to their legacy within the supporters' group. Posthumous membership will not require payment of fees, and the member’s details will be retained respectfully.
5.11. A special mention or acknowledgment may be made for posthumous members at general meetings or other suitable occasions.
Membership Officer
5.12. UGR will maintain the role of a Membership Officer responsible for maintaining an up-to-date membership database, managing the registration and renewal process, ensuring compliance with membership eligibility criteria, and addressing any membership-related inquiries. This role is currently held by Andrew Flynn.
5.12. UGR will maintain the role of a Membership Officer responsible for maintaining an up-to-date membership database, managing the registration and renewal process, ensuring compliance with membership eligibility criteria, and addressing any membership-related inquiries. This role is currently held by Andrew Flynn.
6. Working Groups
6.1. To effectively coordinate efforts towards UGR’s objectives, the organisation may establish a Working Group that meets regularly (at the discretion of the Working Group) to progress key operational areas.
6.2. The established operational lanes are:
- Club Relations: Establishes and maintains a constructive, formalised communication stream between UGR and the football club.
- Flags & Atmosphere: Responsible for enhancing the matchday experience through displays, flags and coordinated support.
- Away Travel: Organises coach travel for supporters attending away fixtures.
- Fundraising: Develops and oversees fundraising initiatives to support UGR’s activities.
- Communications: Manages UGR’s public presence, internal and external communications, and press engagement.
- Memberships: Focuses on growing the member base and ensuring strong engagement with existing members.
- Finance: Oversees financial planning, transparency and reporting.
- Community & Charity: Identifies and supports community initiatives and charitable causes.
Membership & Participation
6.3. All UGR members have an equal opportunity to join the Working Group at any time. Interest can be expressed by emailing uniongolfroad@gmail.com or by verbally informing any existing Working Group participant.
6.4. No formal election process is required. Members may attend or step away from the Working Group at their discretion.
Meetings & Accountability
6.5. Working Groups will hold separate meetings outside of general UGR Member meetings. Minutes from these meetings must be recorded and submitted for publication to ensure transparency across the membership.
6.6. Members of the Working Group will be expected to provide updates to the wider membership during general meetings (see Section 7).
7. Meetings
Frequency & Format
7.1. UGR will hold general meetings at least every two months, with no more than three months between meetings. Meetings will be held in person at an accessible venue suitable for the expected number of attendees. A minimum of 5 members is required for the meeting to run.
Extraordinary Meetings
7.2. UGR may call an Extraordinary Meeting if circumstances require urgent discussion or decision-making outside of the regular meeting schedule. Any such meeting must be communicated to all members, including the date, time, venue, and purpose, with reasonable notice. Extraordinary Meetings shall follow the same structure as regular meetings where possible, with minutes recorded and circulated.
Agenda Structure
7.3. UGR meetings consist of Fixed and Open agenda items:
Fixed Agenda Items:
Fixed Agenda Items:
- Updates from each Working Group
- Financial update from the Finance Working Group
Open Agenda Items:
Any member may submit a topic for discussion before the meeting. The member submitting the topic will be required to introduce and open the discussion.
Any member may submit a topic for discussion before the meeting. The member submitting the topic will be required to introduce and open the discussion.
7.4. Meeting minutes will be recorded and circulated to all members. Actions and key decisions will be documented and published for transparency.
8. Structure & Process
Equal Consensus Model: One Member, One Vote
8.1. UGR operates on a member-driven decision-making model, ensuring equal influence for all members, regardless of their financial contribution.
Proposal & Decision-Making Process
8.2.
- Proposal Submission – Any member may submit a proposal for discussion.
- Open Discussion – Members collectively discuss proposals, share opinions, and refine ideas.
- Consensus First – The group prioritises reaching general agreement before moving to a vote.
- Voting Process – Each member receives one vote, ensuring equal say in all decisions.
- Majority or Unanimity – Decisions are made by majority rule (50%+) or, where required, full consensus (100%). The threshold for full consensus will be determined by the nature of the decision.
- Transparent Implementation – All outcomes are communicated clearly, with records accessible to members.
Equal Influence Principle
8.3. Membership contributions beyond the minimum amount do not grant additional influence, votes, or privileges. UGR remains committed to a fair and democratic process where each member has an equal say in shaping the group’s direction.
Voting Process & Non-Voters
8.4.
- Voting Window – For decisions requiring a vote, members will be given a reasonable time frame to cast their vote. This will typically be:
- In-person meetings – votes must be cast during the meeting.
- Online or remote votes – the member base will have a set period (e.g., 7-14 days) to submit their vote.
- Non-Voters & Abstentions
If a member chooses not to vote or fails to respond within the set timeframe, their vote will not count toward the total, but the decision-making process will continue. If a proposal requires full consensus (100%), non-voters will be contacted once as a reminder. If they still do not vote, the proposal will remain unresolved and may be revised and resubmitted in the future. If a decision is based on majority rule (50%+), it will pass or fail based on the votes cast, regardless of the number of non-voters. - Finality of Votes – Once a vote has been cast and the result confirmed, the decision is considered final unless formally challenged through an agreed-upon process.
9. Finance
9.1. Treasurer Appointment
UGR will seek to appoint a Treasurer at its opening meeting or as soon as possible thereafter. The Treasurer shall be responsible for overseeing all financial matters and ensuring financial transparency.
9.2. Financial Management & Record-Keeping
The Treasurer shall maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all transactions related to UGR activities.
9.3. Banking & Payments
A bank account shall be opened with a recognised and regulated financial institution. All funds received shall be deposited into this account. Any payments or withdrawals shall require the signatures of two authorised UGR signatories.
9.4. Annual Accounts & Reporting
Accounts shall be prepared annually and presented to members at a general meeting. Regular financial updates will be provided at each member meeting in line with UGR’s commitment to financial transparency.
9.5. Use of Funds
No money, property, or financial gain from UGR activities shall be used outside the scope of the constitution or an approved member proposal. All expenditure must align with UGR’s stated objectives and be approved through the agreed decision-making process.
UGR will seek to appoint a Treasurer at its opening meeting or as soon as possible thereafter. The Treasurer shall be responsible for overseeing all financial matters and ensuring financial transparency.
9.2. Financial Management & Record-Keeping
The Treasurer shall maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all transactions related to UGR activities.
9.3. Banking & Payments
A bank account shall be opened with a recognised and regulated financial institution. All funds received shall be deposited into this account. Any payments or withdrawals shall require the signatures of two authorised UGR signatories.
9.4. Annual Accounts & Reporting
Accounts shall be prepared annually and presented to members at a general meeting. Regular financial updates will be provided at each member meeting in line with UGR’s commitment to financial transparency.
9.5. Use of Funds
No money, property, or financial gain from UGR activities shall be used outside the scope of the constitution or an approved member proposal. All expenditure must align with UGR’s stated objectives and be approved through the agreed decision-making process.
10. Amendments to the Constitution
10.1. Proposal Submission
Any member may propose an amendment to the constitution. Proposals must be submitted in writing and circulated to all members for review.
10.2. Discussion & Review
Proposed amendments will be discussed at the next scheduled member meeting. If the proposal is deemed urgent, an extraordinary meeting may be called to discuss it.
10.3. Voting & Approval
Constitutional amendments require full consensus (100%) of members following the Voting process outlined in term 8.4.
Any member may propose an amendment to the constitution. Proposals must be submitted in writing and circulated to all members for review.
10.2. Discussion & Review
Proposed amendments will be discussed at the next scheduled member meeting. If the proposal is deemed urgent, an extraordinary meeting may be called to discuss it.
10.3. Voting & Approval
Constitutional amendments require full consensus (100%) of members following the Voting process outlined in term 8.4.
11. Other Provisions
11.1. Data Protection & Privacy
Personal data, including but not limited to membership details, must be kept secure. This data shall only be accessed by the designated Membership Officer and shall not be shared with any third party. UGR will comply with the UK Data Protection Act and any applicable privacy laws.
11.2. Access to the Constitution
A full copy of the constitution is available on the UGR website. Printed copies can be provided upon request.
11.3. Use of UGR Name & Branding
No member may use the name, style, or title of UGR for personal or external purposes without full member approval (100%). Any official use of UGR’s name must align with the group’s values and objectives.
Last updated: Friday, 19th December 2025
Personal data, including but not limited to membership details, must be kept secure. This data shall only be accessed by the designated Membership Officer and shall not be shared with any third party. UGR will comply with the UK Data Protection Act and any applicable privacy laws.
11.2. Access to the Constitution
A full copy of the constitution is available on the UGR website. Printed copies can be provided upon request.
11.3. Use of UGR Name & Branding
No member may use the name, style, or title of UGR for personal or external purposes without full member approval (100%). Any official use of UGR’s name must align with the group’s values and objectives.
Last updated: Friday, 19th December 2025