Tickets for this event are available via the Social Liberal Forum website.

The Challenge We Face

Nine years have passed since the Brexit referendum divided our nation. The narrow Leave victory, driven primarily by the “left behind” communities in Wales, the Midlands, and Northern England—areas that felt abandoned by decades of economic neglect—set us on a path that has fundamentally reshaped British politics.

Those of us who supported Remain were left grappling with profound questions: How do we understand what happened? How do we respond constructively to the concerns that drove that vote?

The 2024 election brought hope that Labour might finally deliver for these “left behind” communities after 14 years of Conservative mismanagement and Brexit failure. Yet early signs suggest this promise may go unfulfilled. The result? Growing disillusionment with mainstream politics, with voters either staying home or turning to Reform UK—a dangerous trend we’ve witnessed across the democratic world, from Trump’s America to populist movements throughout Europe.

This presents a stark warning for the next general election expected in 2029: unless we act decisively, Britain risks following the same destructive path toward authoritarian populism.

The Liberal Democrat Opportunity

The Liberal Democrats now with 72 MPs can offer something different. But seizing it requires fundamental changes:

• Higher national profile so that voters know what we stand for
• Ambitious economic policies that directly tackle inequality and public sector decline
• A compelling vision for Britain’s future where voters can feel that their vote makes a difference

Your Role in the Solution

But how do we get there? This is where you come in. The Social Liberal Forum has assembled some of the most thoughtful voices in Liberal Democrat politics for an essential conversation about the future direction of the liberal movement.

Conference Programme

Our day-long conference will tackle the critical questions facing British liberalism:

• Economic Justice: How do we build an economy that works for everyone?
• Liberal Identity: What do we truly stand for in 2025?
• Environmental Politics: Advancing green policies amid culture wars
• Youth Engagement: Winning the next generation
• Welfare Reform: Addressing low pay and insecurity
• The Reform Challenge: Understanding and countering populist appeal
• The Path Forward: Where do we go from here?

Distinguished Speakers

Our lineup includes:

• Ed Davey MP (to be confirmed)
• Professor John Curtice (Britain’s leading psephologist)
• Sundar Katwala (Director, British Future)
• Humaira Ali, Pippa Heylings MP, Bobby Dean MP, Victoria Collins MP, Daisy Cooper MP
• And many other leading Liberal Democrat voices

A Test of Liberal Commitment

Here’s the stark reality: Reform UK can fill venues with over 1,000 people eager to hear the same old recycled talking points from GB News. Meanwhile, Liberal Democrat events struggle for attention, despite offering substantive policy discussions the media routinely ignores.

This conference is our chance to prove that thoughtful, progressive politics can still mobilise people. It’s our opportunity to demonstrate that liberalism offers real solutions to Britain’s challenges.

Practical Details

Getting There: St Albans is just 30 minutes by train from London King’s Cross, with excellent public transport connections.

Accommodation: St Albans Liberal Democrats are offering affordable overnight accommodation and an evening BBQ social event.

Tickets: Early Bird rates still available through our website.

Join Us

The stakes couldn’t be higher. British democracy faces its greatest challenge in generations, and the Liberal Democrats must rise to meet it. Your voice, your ideas, and your commitment could help shape the party’s response to this critical moment.

Don’t let others decide our future. Join us in St Albans on 19th July and help build the liberal vision Britain desperately needs.

Book your Early Bird ticket today via our website.

* Geoff Payne is a member of the SLF council