Bournemouth have pledged to improve after acknowledging that recent changes to matchday staffing were communicated in a way that fell short of the club’s standards.
Concerns arose when some long-serving members of the matchday team were informed by an email from “the safety team” — sent two weeks before the new season — that their roles would not continue in 2026-27.
In a statement, the club accepted those concerns, saying they had reviewed how the message was delivered and recognised it did not meet their own expectations. They added that people who have given many years to AFC Bournemouth should be treated with respect and appreciation, and confirmed they are contacting those affected to hear their views and consider individual circumstances.
Bournemouth, who climbed from League Two to the Premier League in five years and returned to the top flight in 2022 after relegation in 2020, are set to play European football for the first time this season.
The club said it had reassessed matchday staffing for 2026-27, introducing new roles and requirements to further strengthen safety and security in and around the stadium. While stressing the importance of these changes, Bournemouth admitted the communication should have been handled better and promised to improve, expressing gratitude to everyone who has served the club, especially long-term staff.
A post on X claimed a staff member with nearly six decades of service received a brief four-paragraph email, describing the approach as unacceptable. After stating that contracts would not be renewed, the email reportedly thanked recipients for their service and wished them well.
BBC Sport understands the club contacted the individual in question before issuing the statement. He had been working in the car park and has now been offered a different role for next season.