Bournemouth have promised to improve after admitting that recent matchday staffing changes were communicated in a way that fell short of the club’s expected standards.
Questions were raised about how the Premier League side informed several long-serving matchday employees that they would not be needed for the 2026-27 campaign.
The affected staff received an email from the safety team only two weeks before the season began.
In an official statement,, external the club accepted the criticism and said it had examined how the decision was conveyed, acknowledging that the process failed to meet its own standards.
It added that individuals who had dedicated many years to the club should receive gratitude and respectful treatment.
Club officials are now approaching those affected directly to hear their concerns and reconsider each person’s circumstances.
The Cherries climbed quickly from League Two to the Premier League, completing the journey to England’s highest division in five years after winning promotion in 2015.
They dropped out of the top flight in 2020 but secured their return two years later. This season, they are also set to compete in European football for the first time.
Following a review of matchday staffing for 2026-27, the club altered several positions and employment requirements as part of efforts to improve security and safety inside the stadium and across nearby areas.
The club said the operational updates were necessary but admitted that communicating properly and treating long-serving employees fairly were equally important. It conceded that the situation should have been managed more carefully and pledged to improve.
It also expressed appreciation for everyone who had supported the club over the years, especially those whose service extended across several decades.
A post on X, external claimed that a matchday employee with almost 60 years of service was dismissed through a four-paragraph email, describing the method as unacceptable.
After explaining that the recipient’s contract would not be extended, the message recognised that the decision would be upsetting and thanked the employee for their dedication, professionalism and contribution.
The email also acknowledged the support provided over many years and offered best wishes for the future.
The long-serving employee had worked in the car park but has since been offered a position in another area for the following season.
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