How Prospect’s National Conference works
Training courses
- How to be an effective Public Speaker/Getting ready for conference
Now taking bookings for 2026 National Conference.Wednesday 22 April (in-person) 10 am – 4.30 pm. Friday 15th May (on-line) 10 am – 4.30 pm.
This course is designed for those reps/delegates who have never attended conference before/or are planning to speak on a motion and would like a bit more confidence on the rules of conference.
10am – 12 noon Public speaking. 2 – 4.30pm Getting ready for conference - Conference refresher session
This practical session runs after delegate registration in the main Confernece Hall at approx. 6:15pm.
Useful documents
- Guide to writing a Motion
- Branch Secretary guidance link TBC
- Prospect Rule Book
- 2024 National Conference Agenda (for reference only)
Who are the SOC?
The Standing Orders Committee is made up of four elected members drawn from the membership of the union. The job of the SOC is to help prepare and organise all aspects of Conference business, making sure that motions and rule changes submitted by members are in order, deciding on the order in which they appear on the agenda, and making sure there is sufficient time for delegates to debate and take decisions on the major policy issues which have been referred to Conference.
The SOC is available to give advice on the drafting of motions and rule changes before the submission deadline of 6 March. It is advisable to give the SOC a fortnight’s notice to reply.
After the deadline for submission of Conference business the SOC decides which motions and rule changes are ‘in order’ to go forward to Conference. Branches will be notified of any SOC decisions which affect the submission of their business.
Standing Orders are the regulations that facilitate the smooth running of conference. They are decided by the Standing Orders Committee. You will find the full lists of Standing Orders printed in the agenda and are advised to familiarise yourself with them if possible. Prior to conference a quick guide for delegates will be issued. It will be a simple summary of things you may find useful to know, particularly if you are not familiar with the way the Conference works.
The Standing Orders Committee Report is printed in the agenda and details the recommendations of the SOC for this specific conference and is put to the delegates for approval immediately before the formal opening of Conference Debate.