Conference is one of the highlights of the year for many Lib Dems, providing an opportunity to gather with fellow members, debate policy, attend training and of course network at the bar!
Have you ever considered, though, volunteering to help with making sure Conference all goes to plan? There is a small, but dedicated, team of Conference stewards, without whom Conference could not operate. They are always looking for new members, and this is an appeal to any who may be interested to get in touch.
The steward’s role has changed over the years, but many of the core duties still remain:
There is a front-of-house operation, which means one of the first faces a visitor to conference sees is a steward, who may be able to help with any enquiries that they may have. Stewards are also, of course, found in the main auditorium, both to give out Daily Announcements but also to help in the event of a counted vote. There are many other jobs which could fill the day of a steward, from helping at fringe sessions, to the exhibition area and whatever may be needed that day!
If you are part of the team, as well as getting to see what goes on ‘behind the scenes’ at Conference, you will also be registered for free, a great help for those who otherwise may struggle to get to Conference. There are also modest expenses that help and on top of all that a stewards’ party, to thank you for all the hard work during the event.
With Spring Conference in Sheffield not far off, we need to hear from people now, so please do not hesitate to contact us. We will make sure you get a warm welcome to the team!
It promises to be eventful, so please come and help us make Conference a success.
If you are interested then please go to the website www.libdemstewards.co.uk or email [email protected]
Mike Ross is the Liberal Democrats’ Deputy Chief Steward
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5 Comments
I first stewarded at the federal conference in Bournemouth in September 2009, had great fun and returned for this year’s autumn conference in Liverpool as well.
I have found that stewarding is a good way to get involved in Conference without paying the full cost of registration and accomodation. When you’re on shift you obviously have less freedom to go to particular events, though there is plenty of work for stewards to do in the auditorium itself so if you want to listen to any particular debate that can usually be organised if you arrange it in advance.
If you’re interested I recommend taking the plunge.
Blimey won’t you need to have training in kettling to do this now?
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That website is making me cry.
Stewarding was a rewarding experience for me each time I was there,I concur with the commentary of Niklas Smith especially the part about organizing requests for postings or absences in advance.The more advanced notice everyone gives the more options the senior stewards have to work with and the more likelihood of getting a particular spot or leave of absence.Same for most organizations and we specialize in organizing the potentially chaotic on a huge scale.So if You can read up in advance and be prepared in lots of little ways it can be at least as rewarding as other service.