PUBLISHED
12:32 15 February 2012
About the Trust
RamsTrust was formed in 2002 and is a fully democratic and independent co-operative, providing a voice for Derby County supporters. It is operated by volunteers and funded by subscriptions, donations and its own merchandise initiatives.
RamsTrust is formally known as The Derby County Supporters Society Limited and is registered with the FSA; it is an Industrial & Provident Society.
The trust is a member of Supporters Direct, the national umbrella organisation for supporters' trusts in the UK. SD's primary goal in the mission statement is: "to promote sustainable spectator sports clubs based on supporters' involvement & community ownership".
The Trust aims to safeguard the future of the club no matter who the owners are. Fans are the only constant in football and it is only fair they have a say, regardless of owners, manager or players. RamsTrust allows this in a democratic and responsible way, with constitutional protection for its members. It is representative of its members on all issues, from ticket pricing to governance.
Through its board and membership, RamsTrust works with Derby County FC and other supporter and community groups to help strengthen ties with the club and community, to celebrate Derby County's heritage and help build the club into a world-class sporting institution.
Whilst RamsTrust strives to protect the best interests of the club in matters of supporter representation and club governance, it is fully committed to ongoing heritage and community work on a local and national basis; supporter projects such as the Steve Bloomer memorial bust originated from RamsTrust.
The trust also facilitated the Super Rams giant flag and funded the Derby 'Til I Die book, written by the fans, for the fans as part of a project initiated by the National Literacy Trust and Football Foundation.
RamsTrust has contributed to national campaigns and initiatives, including Kick It Out - Anti-Racism in Football and the Department of Culture, Media & Sport inquiry into football governance.The trust participates in local and national charity fundraising and co-operative community events.
More can be seen about RamsTrust's history by visiting the website and clicking the 'Achievements' tab; an 'Activity Summary' for 2011 can also be seen in the feature articles.
Additional information:
RamsTrust are represented at national level, members having been elected to the national board of Supporters Direct and the England & Wales Football Council of Supporters Direct.
RamsTrust website: www.ramstrust.org.uk.
Supporters Direct website: www.supporters-direct.coop
Contact RamsTrust at: ramstrust@ramstrust.org.uk
Members can contact the trust at: membership@ramstrust.org.uk
Voicemail: 0870 432 1871