ECF Restructuring Consultation - Who does what?

[Paul Cooksey]

I disagree quite strongly with Bruce in a number of respects.

Firstly, and most importantly, when we are discussing the new structure of the ECF I think we should be focused on what the new organisations should aim to do. The office is a means to an end, not an end in itself. From a practical point of view, I think providing “hidden benefits” is not good strategy. Since the ECFs funding model is contentious, it would be better to provide clear and obvious benefits. However, important as it may be, there are other threads on the ECF communications strategy.

I agree with Bruce that the ECF Calendar is an excellent resource. Indeed, as a player it is the only thing on the main ECF site that I use regularly. It fits my view of what the ECF should be doing well, it is a simple service which no individual event would run, but provides a benefit to all of them. However I do not see any particular reason why it requires an office rather than a volunteer

My view on the office is that it exists to do those things which are necessary to meet ECF aims, but which no-one is willing to do voluntarily. I see roles with honorariums attached to them in the same way. Frankly I’d rather pay £18 to have my games graded and rated than volunteer to be IRO. In fact I’d pay considerably more than £18, although the ongoing discussion about funding suggests that many people are either not willing or not able to pay that amount. Furthermore, £1 is probably sufficient to cover grading services.

So, just in case it is still not clear. I have no objection in principle to an office. It is irrelevant to me whether the ECF employs 1, 3 or 10 people in Hastings, Croydon or Leeds. I only really care that what the office does delivers a benefit to English chess greater than the cost of running it.

Bruce’s point that the division of office duties between the old and new organisations needs some thought is well made, and is the kind of thing I was hoping to discuss. Probably we should look at the document Behind the scenes at the ECF. If memory serves, Stewart Rueben prepared this list, and it looks to have been recently revised by Andrew Farthing