News, Manchester
Helen PowellA lifelong Manchester City fan said she would be “devastated” to lose her season ticket due to changes being introduced by the football club.
From August, season tickets must be used for at least 16 of City’s 19 Premier League home games. The ticket holder must attend 10 or more of these fixtures in person.
Helen Powell, from Todmorden in West Yorkshire, is backing a campaign by supporters’ group Trade Union Blues to have the policy scrapped.
A Manchester City spokesperson said the club would work with fans to come up with appropriate adjustments, adding that supporters could apply for an exemption.
EPATrade Union Blues has written to the club via law firm Leigh Day, arguing the policy could be seen as discriminatory and unlawful.
It has requested a meeting with club executives.
Mrs Powell said she could have lost her season ticket had the new policy been introduced when she was pregnant last year.
She said she was also worried about the forthcoming season, given that her husband is a shift worker and they have a young baby.
“I just don’t think [the policy] fits in the modern world,” said Mrs Powell, who has had a season ticket at Etihad Stadium for 12 years.
“At any point during a weekend, a game could be moved and you’re expected to be able to bend to that.
“People on shift work, people who are carers, people who can’t drop plans at the drop of a hat… we’re the ones that feel like we’re being punished by the club.”
She spoke of how important supporting City was to her.
“When everything’s crazy, when everything’s changing around you, even becoming a mother, it’s that one thing I know – I can go to the game, I can see my mates, watch some football,” she said.
“It shouldn’t be this hard and it feels like [the club is] pushing us further and further away.”
Helen PowellTrade Union Blues argued Manchester City’s new policy would penalise supporters who could not attend matches because of protected characteristics such as being disabled, pregnant or elderly.
It claimed this would potentially be in breach of the 2010 Equality Act.
Additionally, the group said the move would be unfair on those who have caring responsibilities, religious or cultural obligations, or who work shifts.
A Manchester City spokesperson said: “We understand some supporters may find it difficult to attend 10 matches in person.
“We encourage everyone to see how things go for the first few months of the next season, but if you find yourself missing matches or facing challenging circumstances, the access team are on hand to help.
“They will work with you to try to come up with adjustments.
“You can also apply an exemption where necessary.”
