Vitality Stadium expansion exposes avoidable matchday flaw after Bournemouth fan’s search complaint

AFC Bournemouth are reviewing their stewarding arrangements after a female supporter complained about being searched by a male steward at the Vitality Stadium.

The issue has emerged as the club continues its £50 million expansion project, with new perimeter fencing and entry gates changing the matchday experience.

AFC Bournemouth in spotlight after fan complains to Kick It Out

A female matchgoer contacted anti-discrimination group Kick It Out after being searched by a male member of Bournemouth's stewarding team, according to CityAM.

The complaint is understood to relate to the new perimeter fencing and entry gates installed around the Vitality Stadium as part of the club's expansion, which will eventually increase capacity from 11,286 to around 20,200.

Several women were reportedly redirected to different entrances because female stewards were unavailable, while others agreed to be searched by male staff.

There is no suggestion of inappropriate behaviour, and trained male stewards can search female supporters with their consent, although guidance strongly recommends searches are carried out by someone of the same gender.

Kick It Out's complaint did not allege misconduct, but instead raised concerns about the processes being used at the stadium. The organisation passes complaints to clubs and supports supporters who report incidents.

Bournemouth are understood to be aware of the complaint and willing to investigate if sufficient information is provided, although the club has not received enough detail to do so at present.

FGG says: Bournemouth need to get their matchday experience right

This feels like an avoidable problem during an otherwise exciting period for Bournemouth.

Stadium expansion is supposed to improve the experience for supporters, so getting basic entry procedures right should be part of that process.

There is no suggestion that the steward acted improperly, but having enough female stewards available would surely make these situations much easier to avoid.