SMiSA explore unique partnership with local charity

The St Mirren Independent Supporters Association have this morning announced details of a unique partnership with Kibble, one of Scotland’s largest charities and social enterprises, to accelerate their journey towards supporter ownership – and to deliver an even greater benefit to their community in the process.

The St Mirren fans have been working hard for several years on their journey towards community ownership. In Kibble they have found a partner who shares their values, backs them as the ideal custodians for the football club, and have the resources and expertise to build on the solid foundations that community ownership will provide. This partnership brings together two of the oldest social institutions in Paisley, and will see the football club owned by the community and working for the community’s benefit.

It is rare to find such a great fit between two organisations, and fans may wonder where the catch is! But the careful work that has gone on behind the scenes – with the support of Gordon Scott who has fully embraced community ownership as the best long-term model for the club – has given each party confidence that their values and priorities are fully aligned. While there are never any guarantees of success, we believe that St Mirren fans can look forward to a long and positive future in partnership with Kibble; and we are confident that the people of Paisley will be proud of the impact that their town’s football club will have on the lives of their young people.

As an organisation whose fundamental purpose is to promote supporter ownership, Supporters Direct Scotland endorses this partnership. Whilst it will lead to majority ownership by SMiSA, rather than outright ownership, it will put the fans firmly in control of their club’s future – and with a partner who fully supports their ambitions for the club.

Read more about the proposed partnership at www.smisa.net

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