Scottish Labour Conference Guide 2025

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3521_24 Reproduced from electronic media. Promoted by Kate Watson, Scottish General Secretary, on behalf of the Scottish Labour Party, Donald Dewar House, 139 Norfolk St, Glasgow, G5 9EA.

From the Western Isles to the Lothians, from Stirlingshire to Ayrshire - Scottish Labour is back in the service of the working people of Scotland again

ANAS SARWAR

Leader of the Scottish Labour Party

Friends and colleagues.

It is an honour to welcome you all to Glasgow for Scottish Labour Conference 2025. Since we last met here, we have turned Scottish and British politics on its head.

They said it could not be done. Time and time again, we were written off. But at the election, Scottish Labour led the way in kicking the Tories out of office and delivered 37 Scottish Labour MPs.

From the Western Isles to the Lothians, from Stirlingshire to AyrshireScottish Labour is back in the service of the working people of Scotland again.

Friends - that is the difference that Scottish Labour has delivered. But the fact is that the job is half done. We may have got rid of one incompetent government at the general election, but here in Scotland our country is still being held back by the incompetent SNP Government at Holyrood. Because

after 18 years of SNP rule, every institution in Scotland is weaker.

Our public services are in disarray. Our NHS is on its knees. And thousands of Scots feel like their concerns are ignored or rejected by those in power. But it doesn't have to be this way.

Things can - and they will - get better. In just over a year's time, Scotland will face a choice - do we continue with the managed decline under the SNP or do we change direction? Do we limit the ambition of our parliament and our government to protest, position and procrastinate or do we use it to reform, renew and deliver for the people of Scotland?

This is the question before the people of Scotland. We have the talent, we have the resources, we have the powers, we have the people, what we lack is the political will and ambition of our government.

In 2026 we will change that, because Scotland’s best days and years lie ahead of us, but only if we are willing to chart a new direction together. But to do that, we need to show the people of Scotland that Scottish Labour is ready to chart the new direction we need. That's whybetween now and 2026 - it falls to us to lay our vision for a fairer, better and more prosperous Scotland. To set out how we will save our NHS so that every Scot has access to world-class

care. To show how we will kickstart our economy and deliver growth for workers and businesses. And to reform our public services so that they deliver value for money for the Scottish taxpayer.

A government back in the service of the people of Scotland. That is what we offer. This is our chance to share ideas, to come together and chart a new direction for Scotland.

I know this party and this movement has the skill and the ability we need to change our country. This is our vision. New hope, new thinking and new solutions.

A new direction for Scotland.

We have the talent, we have the resources, we have the powers, we have the people

IAN MURRAY

Secretary of State for Scotland

Welcome to Glasgow and Scottish Labour’s 2025 conference.

And the first Scottish Conference in 15 years with a UK Labour government in office.

Now with Keir Starmer in Downing Street, we must turn all our focus and energy towards ensuring Anas Sarwar is in Bute House after the 2026 Scottish elections.

Because Scotland desperately needs a new direction.

In our NHS, our schools and our communities we need the fresh thinking and energy that a Scottish Labour government will deliver.

Because since July last year we have seen the positive impact of Labour in power, driven by the influence of 37 Scottish Labour MPs at the heart of government.

It was that influence that will see GB Energy leading the race to clean power and green jobs, owned by the people and headquartered in Scotland.

It was that influence that sees the biggest upgrade to workers’ rights in a generation. Our plans to Make Work Pay have increased the minimum wage and will make exploitative zero hours contracts

a thing of the past. It will boost the pay packets of working people and give them more security at work –and nowhere in the UK will workers benefit more than in Scotland.

And it was that influence that delivered more money for public services in Scotland than ever before with the biggest budget settlement for the Scottish Parliament in history. That budget gave us 5.2 billion reasons to deliver a Labour government.

There’s more to come – our Child Poverty Task Force will look at how we deliver lasting change to child poverty across the UK. Lifting kids out of poverty is what Labour

governments do. It’s in our DNA. We’ve done it before and we’ll do it again.

Never forget, having crashed the economy once, the Tories were ready to do it all over again. This Labour government delivered £1.4 billion of local growth funding all across Scotland. Investing directly in our towns, cities and communities. That was money the Tories falsely promised to Scotland which they had no intention of paying for. Labour got into government and delivered those projects.

None of this would have been possible without the heroic efforts of the Labour family in the general election last year. You chapped on hundreds of thousands of doors and spoke to people the length and breadth of Scotland with our positive vision for Scotland’s future. And every single door you knocked helped kick out a rotten Tory government that had become mired in sleaze and crashed the economy.

In 2026 I’m asking for your help to do it again.

In July 2024 we got rid of one bad government – in May 2026 we need

We must turn all our focus and energy towards ensuring Anas Sarwar is in Bute House

to finish the job and get rid of the other one, replace a failing SNP Government with a Scottish Labour government with Anas Sarwar as First Minister, and chart a new direction for our country.

We are changing lives for the better all over the UK. Now it’s time to show what we can do in Scotland too.

Enjoy conference.

KATE WATSON

Scottish General Secretary

It is the privilege of a lifetime to welcome you to my home city for my first Scottish Labour Conference as General Secretary.

The past 12 months have seen our movement defy the odds and redraw Scotland’s political map. With Anas’ leadership and our dedicated activists, candidates, councillors, MSPs, trade unionists and committed staff we ousted the Tories from Downing Street and delivered 37 Scottish Labour MPs.

From the Western Isles to Ayrshire, communities across Scotland now have Labour champions standing up for working people and delivering the change we need.

So as we gather this year, it is important that we take a moment to celebrate what we have achieved - a UK Labour Government that has ended the era of austerity, delivered a new deal for working people that will transform rights and pay for workers, established GB Energy and promoting Brand Scotland to the world.

But comrades, the hard work is not done. We’ve booted the Tories out of government but in just over a year we have to deliver again.

Because running through every debate this weekend is the same frustration - that Scotland’s government does not work and working people are left to pay the price. It is clear that the SNP have lost their way - and Scotland is crying out for a new direction. A new direction that it falls to us to deliver.

At the heart of our campaign will be the ideas, energy and activism of our party. Everyone here this weekend will have a vital role to play in the next 16 months as we campaign to make devolution work for Scots, fix our NHS and the public services we all rely on.

It will be a lot of hard work and it starts now as we fight for every vote, right across the country.

This weekend is also a chance to get together, make new friends and catch up with old ones. I hope, like me, you are looking forward to an enjoyable weekend focused on how we can come together and deliver the new direction that Scotland needs.

SIMON MACFARLANE

Chair, Scottish Executive Committee

Conference meets with a UK Labour Government in power for the first time in a decade and a half. Our result on 4 July was remarkable, from one MP to 37. We were right to celebrate but the time for that is over. Delivery is what we will now be judged on.

The New Deal for Working People was a central plank of our offer to the British people, as a trade unionist I know the transformation this will bring. True to our word, the government tabled the Employment Rights Bill within 100 days of being elected. And it was wonderful to see it introduced in parliament by former UNISON activist Angela Rayner.

Government is tough, creating change can be difficult. However, when facing challenges we need only pause to think for a moment what life would be like for ourselves, our families and our communities if we were not in year one of a Labour government, but were instead in year 16 of a Tory one.

Scottish Labour has and will continue to argue for what is right for Scotland without fear or favour; but we know we do so in vastly better circumstances today than for many years past.

The Scottish executive has met regularly throughout the year to oversee the running of the party in Scotland. We are currently in the process of coordinating the selection of candidates to carry our message into next year’s Holyrood elections and I am delighted we have no shortage of talented candidates coming forward.

I want to thank my colleagues on the Scottish executive, UNISON, all Scottish Labour union affiliates and my family for supporting me as chair. I particularly want to thank the party’s amazing staff for all they have done since we last met under John Paul McHugh as our General Secretary and now Kate Watson.

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OBITUARIES

Stuart Adam ............................................................................................. Clackmannanshire & Dunblane

Mushtaq Ahmad Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse

Kors Allan ..................................................................................................................... Edinburgh North and Leith

Jim Anderson Ettrick, Roxburgh and Berwickshire

Georgina Barr ....................................................................................................................... Cunninghame South

Jim Bell Falkirk East

Donald Bethel ................................................................................................................ Dumfries and Galloway

Cllr Margaret Brisley Stirling

Janet Cadenhead ............................................................................. Clackmannanshire & Dunblane

Gordon Campbell Inverness and Nairn

John Connelly........................................................................................................... Greenock and Inverclyde

John Cullen Cumbernauld and Kilsyth

Mary Doig ................................................................................................................................... Na h-Eileanan an Iar

Alan Finlayson Clackmannanshire & Dunblane

Harry Frew ........................................................................................................................................ Glasgow Cathcart

Eleanor Haggett Dunfermline /UNISON

Dennis Hales............................................................................................................................................. Almond Valley

Liz Handibode ................................................................................................................................................... Rutherglen

Will Herald Dundee City

Marion Hurst ............................................................................................................................................. Almond Valley

Andrew Keddie Mid Fife and Glenrothes

Charlie Kelly............................................................................. Aberdeen South and North Kincardine

John Kerr Almond Valley

Andy Kerr ..................................................................................................................................... Cunninghame North

Ian Langrish Almond Valley

Anne MacLean ........................................................................................................................ Inverness and Nairn

Carol MacLeod Greenock and Inverclyde

Callum Ian Macmillan .................................................................................................. Na h-Eileanan an lar

Kenneth Macmillan Inverness and Nairn

Cllr Charlie Malone.................................................................................................................................. Dundee City

William McAllister Inverness and Nairn

Elizabeth McArthur............................................................................................................................. Almond Valley

Lord Tommy McAvoy Rutherglen

James McEwan....................................................................................................... Greenock and Inverclyde

Maraget McGhie Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse

Gordon McGowne ....................................................................................... Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley

Cllr Maureen McKay Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley

William Meikle .................................................................................................................................................... Falkirk East

Janis Milligan ..........................................................................................................................Edinburgh Pentlands

Roddy Murray Na h-Eileanan an lar

Sam Ovens ................................................................................................ Clackmannanshire & Dunblane

John Paterson Clackmannanshire & Dunblane

Bailie Jim Scanlon .................................................................................................................Glasgow Southside

Walter Stanners Falkirk East

Kenneth Stephen ............................................................................................................... Na h-Eileanan an lar

Charlie Watt Clackmannanshire & Dunblane

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You’re invited to the Friday 21 February @ 7pm

The Argyll Suite, Crowne Plaza

Free entry with your conference pass

REPORTS

SCOTTISH LABOUR UNIONS

Simon Macfarlane, Secretary of SLU (UNISON Labour Link)

SLU has continued to meet and be active since our last conference in 2024. As the cost-of-living crisis continues our affiliates have again been organising and supporting members to pursue justice, with many unions successfully undertaking industrial action to secure wage rises or to project jobs and conditions.

The main focus for SLU in the last year has been supporting campaigning around Labour’s New Deal for Working People. This is now being taken forward via the Employment Rights Bill. These new protections and rights can’t come soon enough for workers.

SLU meets regularly on the eve of Scottish executive meetings where we engage with Anas Sarwar and Jackie Bailie as the Scottish leadership, Richard Baker MP on behalf of the (gratifyingly large) Westminster group of MPs and Councillor David Ross who represents Labour on Cosla. These meetings are invaluable for setting out current industrial issues and seeking support and interventions from our elected representatives. Trade unionists are working alongside party members, other affiliates and politicians in the Scottish Policy Forum to ensure the voice of workers is heard loud

and clear as we build towards the manifesto for the Scottish Parliament election in 2026.

In January this year SLU organised training for trade unionists who want to put themselves forward as candidates to take union voices into our parliaments and council chambers. Look out for these fantastic six women and one man at a selection meeting soon. Each and every one will make a great candidate and be an excellent representative.

Jackson Cullinane of Unite is our chair, Karen Whitefield of Usdaw is our vice chair and Katrina Faccenda of TSSA is treasurer. Our affiliates are: ASLEF, TSSA, NUM, Usdaw, Community, Unite, Unison Labour Link; GMB; The Musicians’ Union and CWU.

SLU hopes all delegates have a successful and productive conference. We look forward to working for you at this conference and through the Scottish Policy Forum to ensure Scottish Labour has the most progressive and transformative policies for working people, their families and communities as we head into the elections in 2026.

Lastly, if you are not already, I would urge you all to get active in your union once you leave conference.

SCOTTISH LABOUR WOMEN’S COMMITTEE

Suzan King, Chair

It was an honour to be elected chair of the women’s committee earlier this year. I extend my heartfelt thanks to our previous chair, Cathy Peattie, for her tireless dedication and leadership.

Sadly, we recently lost Eleanor Haggett, who was a great support to the committee in her role as vice chair. Her absence is deeply felt.

The women’s committee has been working hard this past year, meeting monthly and establishing sub-committees to work with shadow cabinet leads in Holyrood and the Scottish Policy Forum. These have helped us focus on advancing the motions passed in recent years.

We launched our first newsletter, which will now be a regular feature, and plan to introduce webinars to connect and empower women across Scotland. During the general election we campaigned for women candidates across Scotland and we are immensely proud they were all elected.

Increasing women’s representation remains at the core of our work. The fantastic results of the general election have given us renewed momentum. Scottish Labour has already hosted a successful online

event to encourage more women to consider standing for election.

In November, we held the annual Scottish Labour Women’s Conference in Stirling. The day was filled with informative policy debates, guest speakers and some inspiring first-time speakers contributing their ideas and experiences.

Throughout this weekend, I look forward to engaging with members. I’m eager to hear your ideas and priorities, and to ensure the work of the women’s committee reflects the voices of our movement as a whole.

On behalf of the entire committee, I hope everyone has an interesting and enjoyable conference.

SCOTTISH ASSOCIATION OF LABOUR COUNCILLORS

Councillor Maureen Devlin, Chair

I was delighted to be re-elected as chair of SALC this year following its relaunch. It was fantastic to see our new executive committee members elected to represent councillors and Labour groups across the country. In council chambers we can see the difference Labour in power makes. Our councillors are putting Labour values into action – working tirelessly to protect frontline services, helping people through the cost of living crisis and mitigating the damage done by the SNP-Green government’s budget cuts. We can see the consequences of these SNP cuts in communities all over Scotland – libraries reducing their hours, roads in dire need of repair and litter on the streets.

Last year local councillors helped deliver a stunning result in the general election, electing 37 new Scottish Labour MPs, many of whom cut their political teeth as councillors for communities across Scotland. The new Labour government has already begun to deliver with a New Deal for Working People and an increase to the minimum wage. Most notably in Scotland we have seen a £5 billion increase in the Scottish budget, the largest settlement in the history of devolution, we now need the SNP Government in Holyrood to pass this

funding on to local councils and end the years of bitter cuts.

But the general election wasn’t our only electoral success in the last year. Since July, we’ve had an unprecedented number of local by-elections and from those we now have 19 new Scottish Labour councillors elected who will be dedicated representatives for local people.

Councillors are putting Labour values into action

SCOTTISH YOUNG LABOUR

Solomon Cuthbertson, Chair

Scottish Young Labour have had a busy and successful period since our last report to the 2024 conference. Our membership proudly supported campaigns across Scotland in the general election and subsequent council by-elections, where we have seen young members take key roles at the heart of campaign teams.

I am sure every member of our party was overjoyed to see such a wide geographical spread of young activists throughout Scotland through our numerous SYL campaign days across key seats, from our launch in Edinburgh to Ayrshire to our battle bus tour across Scotland, SYL members showed our support in droves and played our part in delivering 37 Scottish Labour MPs.

Among these new MPs, we are delighted that SYL has representation in Westminster through the election of Euan Stainbank as MP for Falkirk. We hope this acts as inspiration for the next generation of Scottish Labour talent at all electoral levels.

Since the election we are now working closely with Scottish Labour to develop our campaigning capacity, grow our membership and provide new opportunities for young members in Scotland.

As work towards the 2026 Scottish Parliament elections increases, I know young members will once again step up to support our candidates to deliver a new direction for Scotland.

AGENDA AND ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

CONFERENCE AGENDA

Details and timings are subject to change

Friday 21 February 2025

First Session

10.00am Welcome to Glasgow

Cllr George Redmond, Leader of Glasgow Labour Group

10.05am Conference Arrangements Committee Report

10.10am Simon Macfarlane, chair of the Scottish Executive Committee

10.20am Kate Watson, Scottish General Secretary

10.25am Debate: A New Direction for the Next Generation

11:45am Ian Murray MP, Secretary of State for Scotland

12:00pm Keir Hardie Awards

12.30pm Conference adjourns

Second Session

2.00pm Anas Sarwar MSP, Leader of the Scottish Labour Party

3.00pm Debate: A New Direction for our Public Services

4:20pm Debate: A New Direction for our Communities

5.00pm Conference adjourns

Saturday 22 February 2025

Third Session

10:00am Conference Arrangements Committee Report

10:05am Ben Procter, Chair of the Scottish Co-operative Party

10:10am Roz Foyer, STUC General Secretary

10:20am Debate: A New Direction for our NHS and Social Care.

Jackie Baillie MSP, Deputy Leader and Shadow Cabinet Secretary for NHS Recovery, Health and Social Care.

11:30am Health and Social Care Panel

12.30pm Conference adjourns

Fourth Session

2.00pm Rule Changes

2:30pm Celebrating Brand Scotland

3:30pm Debate: A New Direction for our Economy

5.00pm Conference adjourns

Sunday 23 February 2025

Fifth Session

10.00am Conference Arrangements Committee Report

10.05am A New Direction for Scotland – Panel Discussion

10.30am Debate: A New Direction for People and Planet

11:20am A New Direction for Scotland – Q&A

12.00pm Vote of thanks

12.05pm Conference adjourns

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

A warm welcome to all delegates and visitors to the 2025 Scottish Labour Conference. It is great to be in Glasgow for three days of debate, fringe meetings and social events.

Venue

The Scottish Event Campus is a multi-purpose, unique event venue capable of hosting a range of events from music concerts and festivals to business conferences and exhibitions.

Times

Friday

Conference 10.00 – 17.00

Exhibition 09.00 – 17.30

Saturday

Conference 10.00 – 17.00

Exhibition 09.00 – 17.30

Sunday

Conference 10.00 – 12.05

Exhibition 09.00 – 12.30

Late accreditation

If you have still to collect your pass you, can do so at late accreditation.

Thursday.................. 4.00pm to 7.30pm

Friday ......................... 8.00am to 5.00pm

Saturday 8.30am to 5.00pm

Sunday ......................9.00am to 11.30am

Stewards

Scottish Labour stewards will be assisting through conference. Stewards will be checking credentials on arrival and throughout the venue so please wear your pass at all times. Please speak to a member of the steward team if you need any assistance or have any questions. We also ask that you adhere to the following security guidance – take all belongings with you and do not leave bags unattended at any time. Please also report anything suspicious to the nearest steward or member of staff.

QUICK GUIDE FOR DELEGATES

The main function of Scottish Conference is to provide a platform for members and affiliates to initiate debate and decide upon policy matters. This is done through policy motions submitted to the Conference Arrangements Committee (CAC) in advance of conference.

Motions are split into three categories: Motions – proposed policy by affiliates or party units which if passed become Scottish Labour policy.

Emergency motions – issues which have arisen after the deadline for submitting motions to Scottish Conference.

Constitutional amendments –motions dealing with the procedures by which Scottish Labour is organised and refer to internal matters relating to our constitution, rules or standing orders.

All votes are normally carried out by a show of hands by delegates only, however some votes, such as constitutional amendments and rule changes will require a card vote. The conference chair will explain this process, where required.

Speaking in debates

All delegates and ex-officio delegates (such as councillors and parliamentarians) are entitled to speak in debates. The conference chair will decide which delegates can speak, usually taking into account time considerations.

Additional information and the text of motions will be contained within the CAC reports, available from the Scottish Labour information stand each morning.

Scottish Labour information stand

The information stand should be your first port of call if you have any questions about conference, require a replacement agenda, or want to find out more about the party training and social events on offer over the weekend.

Should you be in the market for a souvenir or gift, the stand also has a wide range of official Scottish Labour merchandise for sale.

The stand will be situated at the entrance of the Exhibition Hall and will be staffed from 9am until 5.30pm on Friday and Saturday and from 9am until 12:30pm on Sunday, so pop along and say hello!

FRINGE LISTINGS

FRINGE LISTINGS

Scottish Labour is not responsible for the content of fringe meetings

FRIDAY 21 FEBRUARY – MORNING

Organisation: Barnardo’s Scotland and Magic Breakfast

Subject: Beyond the School Gates: The Impact of Poverty on Participation in Education

Summary: Barnardo's Scotland and Magic Breakfast will lead a panel discussion on the impacts of poverty on children and young people's ability to fulfil their full potential within Scotland's education system. The event will examine the hidden barriers that poverty creates, including stigma and hunger, which limit educational attainment, reduce wellbeing, and prevent the full realisation of children's rights to education. Joined by Pam Duncan-Glancy MSP, the panel will explore what can be done to ensure that the right support is available within schools, at the right time for children and families.

Speakers: Lindsey MacDonald (Chief Executive, Magic Breakfast), Martin Crewe (Director, Barnardo’s Scotland), Pam DuncanGlancy MSP (Scottish Labour Shadow Minister for Education and Skills), Finlay Allmond (Chair, Magic Breakfast).

Room: Alsh 1

Time: 8:30am - 9:30am

Refreshments: Morning rolls, tea, coffee and water

Organisation: Dignity in Dying Scotland

Subject: Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults: delivering compassion, choice, and safety at the end of life

Summary: The way we think about death and dying is changing. In November, Labour’s Kim Leadbeater MP saw her Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill earn a historic win at 2nd Reading in Westminster. With the Stage 1 debate and vote of Liam McArthur MSP’s Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults Bill expected in the coming months, the Scottish Parliament has the opportunity to join the growing consensus that the status quo exacerbates suffering, denies choice, is dangerous and harms patients at the end of life. Join this breakfast meeting to find out more about how Labour is leading this change in Westminster, and how Scottish Labour can deliver a safer, kinder law for dying people in Scotland. A law that provides compassionate choice for those that need it, and greater protections for us all.

Speakers: Paul Blomfield, chair of Dignity in Dying and former Labour MP for Sheffield Central, Ally Thomson, director of Dignity in Dying Scotland.

Room: Alsh 2

Time: 8:30am - 9:30am

Refreshments: Breakfast will be provided

POWER TO THE PEOPLE

UNLOCKING COMMUNITY-OWNED RENEWABLE ENERGY

SARAH BOYACK MSP SHADOW CABINET SECRETARY FOR NET ZERO, ENERGY AND JUST TRANSITION

MICHAEL SHANKS MP MINISTER FOR ENERGY

EIS FRINGE MEETING

EDUCATION MATTERS

Paula McEwan, EIS Ex-President and Andrea Bradley, EIS General Secretary, discuss the current issues in Scottish Education with Pam Duncan-Glancy MSP, Scottish Labour Party Spokesperson for Education. Followed by a Q&A session.

Date: Saturday 22nd February Room: Carron 1 Time: 12.30- 1.30pm

Refreshments: Lunch will be provided

LESLEY HINDS DIRECTOR, EDINBURGH SOLAR CO-OPERATIVE

Organisation: End Child Poverty Coalition

Subject: What’s needed to end child poverty in Scotland?

Summary: In a country as rich as Scotland, an unacceptable 1 in 4 children are still locked in poverty. Labour has long played a role in tackling child poverty in Scotland, including in the passing of the 2017 Child Poverty (Scotland) Act and targets to ensure less than 10% of children are in relative poverty by 2030. While progress has been made, there is still a long way to go. As we anticipate the publication of a new Child Poverty Strategy in late Spring, what are the opportunities for Holyrood to work with the UK Government on a shared mission to eradicate child poverty? And which policies will have the most impact?

Speakers: Paul O’Kane MSP, Kirsty McNeill MP (invited), John Dickie, Director of Child Poverty Action Group in Scotland, a parent from the Changing Realities project and a representative from the End Child Poverty Coalition (TBC).

Room: Boisdale 1

Time: 8:30am - 9:30am

Refreshments: Breakfast rolls (including vegetarian), sweet snacks, tea and coffee

Organisation: Community Pharmacy Scotland

Subject: The Future Vision & Strategy for Community Pharmacy in Scotland

Summary: Community Pharmacy Scotland (CPS) looks towards the next decade of evolving practice in community pharmacy and what the sector can offer to support NHS reform and improvement in public health outcomes, whilst focusing on digital technology to modernise service offering and improve efficiencies.

Speakers: Adam Osprey & Gordon Winter

Room: Carron 1

Time: 8:30am - 9:30am

Refreshments: TBC

FRIDAY 21 FEBRUARY – LUNCH

Organisation: Food and Drink Federation Scotland

Subject: Growing Scottish food and drink manufacturing

Summary: Scotland’s food and drink manufacturers make a vital contribution to the economy and to their communities across Scotland. At the event we will have the opportunity to discuss some of the ways we can all work together to support a flourishing food and drink sector for generations to come.

Speakers: Colin Smyth MSP; David Cross, Managing Director of Uin Foods Limited; David Thomson, CEO of Food and Drink Federation Scotland; Compere: Kirsty Tinsdale, Food and Drink Federation Scotland Room: Alsh 1

Time: 12:30pm – 1:30pm

Refreshments: Lunch and refreshments provided

Organisation: Labour Friends of Scotland

Subject: Working Together to Win

Summary: A discussion with key players on working together to win a Scottish Labour victory in 2026

Speakers: Rt Hon Pat McFadden MP, Kirsty McNeill MP, Paul O'Kane MSP, Simon Kilonbank, CEO of SGN

Room: Alsh 2

Time: 12:30pm - 1:30pm

Refreshments: Provided

Organisation: Chivas Brothers

Subject: Farming for the Future: Cultivating Sustainable Scotch Whisky

Summary: As one of Scotland's largest purchasers of malted barley, Chivas Brothers is committed to sustainable agriculture — a vital step in crafting our world-renowned Scotch whisky. With approximately onethird of our carbon footprint linked to the cultivation and processing of raw materials, we actively partner with Scottish farmers to drive positive change.

Join us for an engaging discussion on how we’re working together to reduce carbon emissions and secure a sustainable future for farming communities across Scotland.

Speakers: Rhoda Grant, Shadow cabinet secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform & Islands; John Erskine; Ronald Daalmans, Environmental Sustainability Manager, Chivas Brothers; Owen Southwood, Procurement Director, Soufflet Bairds Malt Room: Boisdale 1

Time: 12:30pm - 1:30pm

Refreshments: A selection of sandwiches, teas, coffees and refreshments will be available.

Organisation: Advice Direct Scotland

Subject: Unlock the power of advice: drop-in session for councillors and parliamentary caseworkers

Summary: Don't miss this exclusive opportunity to join Advice Direct Scotland for a dynamic casework advice drop-in session. Featuring Frank McNally MP, this event will showcase our cutting-edge digital tools and resource packs designed to support your constituents. Connect with the Advice Direct Scotland team, explore partnership opportunities and discover practical ways to link people with essential advice and services. Tailored specifically for councillors and caseworkers, this fringe event promises valuable insights and strategies to enhance your community service and make your office more efficient. Be there to unlock the

full potential of Scotland’s national advice service.

Speakers: Frank McNally MP, Coatbridge and Bellshill Room: Boisdale 2

Time: 12:30pm - 1:30pm

Refreshments: A collection of sandwich platters provided, along with tea, coffee and water.

Organisation: Stop Climate Chaos Scotland, Scottish Environment LINK, SERA Scotland –Labour’s Environment Campaign

Subject: Climate and Nature: how Scottish Labour can win votes in 2026

Summary: Join leading environmental organisations representing over 1 million people in Scotland to hear how climate and nature action can deliver significant benefits to the economy and our health, address inequality, and bring real benefits to people’s lives. Research consistently shows that people in Scotland want action to reduce emissions and protect and restore nature to be faster and fairer. Expert speakers will explain how committing to this will win votes in 2026.

Speakers: Rebecca Bell (Chair of SERA Scotland), Jamie Livingstone (Head of Oxfam Scotland and SCCS Board Member), Lang Banks (Director of WWF Scotland), Sarah Boyack MSP

Room: Carron 1

Time: 12:30pm - 1:30pm

Refreshments: Sandwiches, tray bakes, tea + coffee and juice provided

Organisation: Scottish Police Federation

Subject: The future of Scotland’s police service and justice system

Summary: What is next for Scotland’s national police force and our approach to justice? Police officers provide a vital frontline service every day, but they are under intense pressure and are being asked to do more with less. Come and hear first-hand from our speakers about the challenges and opportunities ahead for policing in Scotland, and the impact of major planned legislative reforms on our justice system.

Speakers: David Kennedy, General Secretary of the Scottish Police Federation; Pauline McNeill MSP, Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Justice; Katy Clark MSP, Scottish Labour spokesperson for community safety; Chair: Chris Green, Quantum Communications

Room: Dochart 1, SEC

Time: 12.30pm-1.30pm

Refreshments: Lunch and refreshments provided

Organisation: The Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE)

Subject: Public good for public money?

Reforming financial support for tree planting and forestry.

Summary: “Afforestation is seen as a key measure in the fight against climate change, with the capacity to deliver additional benefits for biodiversity and people. The RSE undertook an independent inquiry into public financial support for tree planting and forestry and concluded the current funding regime needs reform in order to maximise collective benefit, particularly at a time of exceptionally constrained public finances. This panel will examine the report’s main recommendations and consider how Scotland can support truly multi-functional forests.”

Speakers: Prof James Curran (Chair), Prof Ian Wall, Prof Pat Monaghan, Prof Des Thompson, Dr Alessandro Gimona, Mercedes Villalba (tbc) Room: Carron 2

Time: 12:30pm - 1:30pm

Refreshments: Refreshments & lunch available

Organisation: Scottish Co-operative Party

Subject: Power to the People: Unlocking Community-Owned Renewable Energy

Summary: We will consider how community and co-operative ownership of renewable energy can help the Labour and Co-operative Parties deliver on their ambitions to expand the co-operative sector, deliver a just transition to net zero, and empower local communities.

Speakers: Sarah Boyack MSP, Shadow Cabinet Secretary for net Zero, Energy and Just Transition; Michael Shanks MP, Minister for Energy; Lesley Hinds, Director Edinburgh Solar Co-operative

Room: Dochart 2

Time: 12:30pm - 1:30pm

Refreshments: Provided

Organisation: Shelter Scotland and the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA)

Subject: Scotland's Housing Emergency: What's Next?

Summary: Tonight, more than 10,110 children across Scotland will go to bed in temporary accommodation. Join our panel as we delve into the roots of Scotland's housing emergency, how we can fight back against it and the practical solutions that we need to see at all levels of government to turn the tide.

With a focus on innovative housing policies and action, this fringe is essential for anyone interested in ending the housing emergency and appropriately tackling what is being called the biggest social justice issue of our time. Early attendance is crucial to avoid disappointment.

Speakers: Alison Watson (Director, Shelter Scotland), Sally Thomas (Chief Executive, Scottish Federation of Housing Associations), Mark Griffin MSP (Scottish Labour spokesperson for housing and local government), with more speakers to be confirmed soon.

Room: Jura Shuna Staffa rooms at The Crowne Plaza Hotel (Glasgow), G3 8QT

Time: 12:40pm - 1:40pm

Refreshments: This will be a fully catered fringe event with food to suit vegetarian and vegan diets.

Organisation: Right to Rehab Coalition

Subject: The Right to Rehab Coalition is an alliance of over twenty voluntary sector and professional bodies advancing the right to rehabilitation in Scotland, including Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland, the Royal College of Occupational Therapists, and the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.

Summary: You are warmly invited to join us to promote the benefits of good rehabilitation services in Scotland.

Community rehabilitation service can reduce hospital admissions, speed up discharge, and reduce reliance on social care. While investing in rehabilitation services can save hundreds of millions for the health and social care sector, it’s priceless for people who get to live healthier lives.

Speakers: Jackie Baillie MSP

Room: Crowne Plaza Hotel – Barra Meeting Room

Time: 12:30pm - 1:30pm

Refreshments: Buffet Lunch provided

Organisation: Hallam Land

Subject: Scotland's housing shortage: How can we begin to deliver on providing quality homes that will support local communities and unlock Scotland's potential for growth?

Summary: With a significant shortfall in the supply of affordable, quality homes, how can Scottish Labour take bold steps to tackle the deepening housing emergency? This shortage is decimating communities across the country, blocking any opportunity for economic growth and yet, the National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4) is continuing to fail in unlocking new sites for housing development. What is needed by policymakers and local authorities to address the gaps in NPF4 to allow for effective housing delivery? How can we encourage collaboration amongst policymakers of all stripes to create cross-party solutions to fix the bottleneck in Scotland’s housing crisis?

As the Scottish public prepare for the Holyrood elections in May 2026, what can voters expect from Scottish Labour in helping design housing policy that has better planning permissions, increased funding and truly serves the needs of local communities?

Speakers: Anas Sarwar MSP, Leader of Scottish Labour Party (invited); Mark Griffin MSP, Spokesperson for Local Government and Housing and MSP for Central Scotland (invited)

Room: Hilton Garden Inn Glasgow City Centre in the Finnieston Suite

Time: 4:00pm – 5:00pm

Refreshments: Yes

SAT 22ND, 12.30PM, ROOM: ALSH 1

Finding a UK-wide solution to the DRS roll-out

PANEL INCLUDES:

✓ Daniel Johnson MSP, Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Business and Fair Work

✓ Monica Lennon MSP, Net Zero committee member

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH:

SAT 22ND, 17.30PM, ROOM: ALSH 1

Building a Future Focused Sustainable Workforce for Scotland’s Health and Social Work Sector

PANEL INCLUDES:

✓ Jackie Baillie MSP, Deputy Leader of Scottish Labour and Shadow Cabinet Secretary for NHS Recovery, Health and Social Care and Drugs Policy

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH:

Public services the heart of a fairer Scotland

Join our lunchtime fringe:

Public services are key to combating poverty. Saturday

Lunchtime 12.30pm in Boisdale 2 room.

Speakers: Rhoda Grant MSP, Mark Ferguson convenor

UNISON Scotland, Ruth Boyle the Poverty Alliance.

with sandwiches and refreshments

The STUC sends solidarity greetings to the 2025 Scottish Labour Party Conference

The STUC, Scotland’s trade union movement, is campaigning to:

Strengthen Workers’ Rights

Demanding the full implementation of Labour’s New Deal for Working People

Increase Investment in Public Services

Reverse Tory austerity cuts and boost public sector pay

Tax Wealth

Raise revenue through progressive taxation, including wealth, income and property taxes

Devolve Employment Law

Ensure Scotland’s workers are never subject to pernicious attacks on the trade union movement

Organisation: Social Care Charity CEOsCarr Gomm, Enable, Hansel, The Mungo Foundation, The Richmond Fellowship Scotland, Scottish Autism, SHARE Scotland

Subject: Building a Brighter Future for Social Care

Summary: Social Care in Scotland faces a number of huge challenges, as underinvestment and undervaluing continues to hamper efforts for the sector to deliver services. With the dropping of the core Part 1 of the National Care Service, wider strategic reform in Scotland has been pushed into the long grass - at the same time that the UK Government has called for a multi-year Royal Commission to explore the situation. Looming over this, the increase in employer National Insurance Rates poses a significant risk to the success and survival of many of Scotland's social care charities. Join us for this discussion with CEOs of some of the leading social care charities in Scotland, as they explore the difficulties alongside highlighting the incredible work that is delivered on a daily basis by social care staff across the country. The panel will explore ideas for reform and opportunities for collaboration.

Social care is one of the most pressing challenges and greatest opportunities of our time - building a better future for the sector will help build a better future for Scotland.

Speakers: Tricia Donnelly, CEO, The Mungo Foundation; Ruth Dorman, CEO, SHARE Scotland; Dorry McLaughlin, CEO, Scottish Autism; Austen Smyth, CEO, The Richmond Fellowship; Lucy Wren, CEO, Carr Gomm; Jackie Baillie MSP Room: Alsh 1

Time: 5:30pm – 6:30pm

Refreshments: Drinks and nibbles will be provided.

Organisation: The Poverty Alliance, Citizens Advice Scotland and Future Economy Scotland

Subject: Collaboration for a Scotland free from poverty

Summary: In our wealthy nation, it’s unjust that so many people don’t have adequate incomes for a decent and dignified life. There is a range of welcome anti-poverty work taking place across our Governments: from the UK Government’s Child Poverty Taskforce to the Scottish Government’s work to develop a Minimum Income Guarantee. We know that collaboration between Governments is needed to build a Scotland free from poverty. This collaboration is particularly important in the areas of employment, social security and energy.

As we look ahead to the publication of the UK Government’s review of Universal Credit, progress against Scotland’s interim child poverty targets and the 2026 Scottish Parliament election, join us to explore how we make that collaboration a reality, and what action we need to see in the Scottish Labour manifesto to get us closer to a poverty free Scotland.

Speakers: Peter Kelly (Chair), Emma Jackson, Miriam Brett, Paul O'Kane MSP, Kirsty McNeill MP

Room: Alsh 2

Time: 5:30pm – 6:30pm

Refreshments: Provided

Organisation: Scottish Election Study

Subject: Understanding the Scottish Labour voter, 2024-2026

Summary: This session will explain patterns of support for Scottish Labour in the 2024 UK General Election with a focus on tactical support, vote switching and the stability of support since then from former Conservative and SNP supporters. Using SES data, it will identify what Scottish Labour supporters say they want, and will look ahead to opportunities and challenges in the 2026 devolved elections.

Speakers: Professor Ailsa Henderson, SES Edinburgh; Professor Chris Carman, SES Glasgow; Dr Fraser McMillan, SES Edinburgh; Libby Brooks, The Guardian; Michael Marra, MSP, Scottish Labour Party Room: Boisdale 1

Time: 5:30pm – 6:30pm Refreshments: Provided

Organisation: Strathclyde Partnership for Transport

Subject: Future of Public Transport in the West of Scotland: Opportunities and Challenges

Summary: Exploring the potential for transformative change in public transport in the west of Scotland for the benefit of all. Focusing on challenges and opportunities to create a more efficient, sustainable, and inclusive network. The discussion will feature on experiences of those from across the UK as they strive to meet the growing demands for better transport.

Speakers: Confirmed speakers include: Jason Prince, director of the Urban Transport Group (UTG) and Vernon Everitt, Traffic Commissioner for Greater Manchester. Event chaired by SPT vice chair Alan Moir. Room: Boisdale 2

Time: 5:30pm – 6:30pm

Organisation: Aberlour Children’s Charity and Govan Law Centre

Subject: Child Poverty and the Public Debt Crisis

Summary: Aberlour and Govan Law Centre will outline the role debt to public bodies plays in contributing to levels of child poverty in Scotland. The session will highlight the impact of public debt on families and will explore the need for legislative reform to change the way public debt recovery happens in Scotland to prevent public debt trapping children and families in poverty.

Speakers: Lynne O'Brien (Aberlour), Mike Dailly (Govan Law Centre), Martin Canavan (Aberlour), Alison McGovern MP (Minister for Employment, UK Government - TBC)

Room: Carron 1

Time: 5:30pm – 6:30pm

Refreshments: Provided

Organisation: Engender

Subject: ‘Why do Women Pay the Price? Understanding the gendered nature of poverty in Scotland, and how to address it.’

Summary: Effectively tackling women’s poverty and financial inequality is vital to eradicate child poverty. One cannot be achieved without the other. Join Engender’s fringe to learn about what drives women’s poverty and why we need gendered policy asks in the Scottish Labour manifesto for Holyrood 2026.

Speakers: Catherine Murphy, Executive Director of Engender; Shubhanna Hussain, Coalition of Carers in Scotland; Tressa Burke and Karen Wylie, Glasgow Disability Alliance; Melanie Ward, Labour MP, Cowdenbeath and Kirkcaldy; Pam Duncan-Glancy, Labour MSP, Glasgow Region.

Room: Carron 2

Time: 5:30pm – 6:30pm

Refreshments: Tea, coffee and sweet treats

Organisation: IPPR Scotland and Carers

Scotland

Subject: Reforming social security in Scotland: Responding to the experience of unpaid carers

Summary: PPR Scotland and Carers Scotland have been researching the need for reform of social security in Scotland, with a focus on how we make the social security system work better for unpaid carers in Scotland. At this event, we will hear from carers with lived experience of the failures of the current system and their hope for change. We will also showcase the work we have been collaborating on; devising a proposal for a Minimum Income Guarantee pilot for carers that the Scottish Government could choose to implement.

Speakers: Kirsty McNeill MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Scotland Office (invited); Fiona Collie, Head of Public Affairs and Communications, Carers

Scotland; Stephen Boyd, IPPR Scotland

Room: Dochart 1

Time: 5:30pm – 6:30pm

Refreshments: Yes

Organisation: Scottish Fabians

Subject: Lessons from Government

Summary: Join the Scottish Fabians and Michael Shanks MP to discuss what we can learn from our first six months in government.

Speakers: Chaired by Katherine Sangster (Director, Scottish Fabians); Michael Shanks MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero); Other guests to be announced.

Room: Dochart 2

Time: 5:30pm – 6:30pm

Refreshments: Wine and soft drinks

Organisation: Labour Friends of Palestine & the Middle East (LFPME)

Subject: LFPME Reception: Ceasefire and the future of Palestine

Summary: Join LFPME for a drinks reception and hear from headline guest speakers, including the Palestinian Ambassador and the Scottish Labour Leader.

Speakers: Palestinian Ambassador Dr Husam Zomlot, Scottish Labour Leader Anas Sarwar MSP, Pauline McNeill MSP, Melanie Ward MP.

Room: Alsh 1

Time: 7pm - 8pm

SATURDAY 22 FEBRUARY – MORNING

Organisation: Universities Scotland

Subject: Skills

Summary: Scotland needs an agile and future-focused approach to skills that will support both our existing and nextgeneration workforce. Join Universities Scotland, Daniel Johnson (TBC), employers and students to discuss the role of universities in this agenda. Our universities are essential to the provision of highlevel education, skills and experience in key sectors from IT and technology to life sciences, engineering and the creative industries. Future skills needs and Scotland’s evolving demographics, means that the upskilling and retraining of the existing workforce will become an ever-bigger part of the skills picture going forward. Join us for the discussion.

Speakers: TBC

Room: Alsh 1

Time: 8:30am – 9:30am

Refreshments: Breakfast rolls, tea and coffee.

Organisation: Centre for Public Policy, University of Glasgow

Subject: Powers with a Purpose?

Summary: The 2016 Scotland Act added significant social security and taxation powers to the Scottish Parliament. So far, it has been used to create 13 new benefits like the Scottish Child Payment and to top up UK benefits - a power used to mitigate cuts - like the bedroom tax.

The Scottish Government’s budget includes a promise to lift the two-child cap.

With the Scottish Fiscal Commission forecasting Scottish social security at £9billion by 2030, how sustainable are all these measures? Do they go far or fast enough? Are they working? What should Labour do next?

Speakers: Paul O’Kane MSP, Professor Nicola McEwen, Professor Kezia Dugdale, Peter Kelly, The Poverty Alliance Room: Alsh 2

Time: 8:30am – 9:30am

Refreshments: Breakfast rolls, tea and coffee.

Organisation: The Young People’s Consortium: The King’s Trust, Barnardo’s, and Action For Children

Subject: ‘Realising potential: What should Scottish Labour’s employability Youth Policy look like?’

Summary: The King’s Trust, Action for Children and Barnardo’s have joined together to host an exciting panel discussion on the challenges faced by Scotland’s youth in the current social and economic climate. This is a chance for members to explore the impact of the cost of living crisis, and the enduring effect the pandemic has had on young people’s future in Scotland.

Young people will be critical to Scotland’s economic recovery. We are delighted that a young ambassador, alongside a Scottish Labour representative will be part of our panel. Come join us in exploring how Labour can realise the untapped potential of Scotland’s young people. Getting this right will help meet the current and pending skills shortages

facing our economy. We hope you will be part of the discussion.

Speakers: Louise Goodlad – The King’s Trust, Cheryl-Ann Cruickshank – Action For Children, Holly Goldie – Barnardo’s, a Young Ambassador, and Pam Duncan-Glancy MSP

Room: Boisdale 1

Time: 8:30am – 9:30am

Refreshments: Breakfast, teas and coffees

Organisation: National Autistic Society

Scotland, Scottish Autism, and Enable

Subject: Closing the Accountability Gap: what next for the LDAN Bill?

Summary: The Learning Disabilities, Autism and Neurodivergence Bill has the potential to be transformative. But the delay to the Bill has left autistic people and people with learning disabilities waiting even longer for change. Our panel will explore the evergrowing accountability gap that means autistic people and people with learning disabilities’ rights are not upheld, and what needs to happen next to realise the ambition of the LDAN Bill.

Speakers: Dr Joe Long – Director of Practice and Innovation, Scottish Autism; Jim Gault – Co-Chairperson of the LDAN Bill Lived Experience Advisory Panel; Kirsty KennedyHyman – Co-Chair of Enable's National SelfAdvocacy Forum; Daniel Johnson MSP

Room: Boisdale 2

Time: 8:30am – 9:30am

Refreshments: Bacon rolls, pastries (vegan), fruit, coffee and tea

Organisation: REVIVE

Subject: The Big Land Question

Summary: The land is your land, but huge swathes of Scotland's land has been controlled by large landowners and sport shooting interests, allowing unequal land ownership models to persist. With a new land reform bill moving through Parliament, now is the time to challenge this power. Join us and Scottish Labour to discuss how we can transform our land and create a more sustainable future for Scotland’s people, wildlife, and environment.

Speakers: Eliza Chiswell as chair (campaigns officer for REVIVE); Robin McAlpine (Common Weal); Rhoda Grant MSP; Megan MacInnes, Community Land Scotland Room: Carron 1

Time: 8:30am – 9:30am

Refreshments: Teas and coffees and some breakfast snacks

Organisation: Friends of the Earth Scotland

Subject: The real cost of CCUS

Summary: SSE have submitted a planning request to build a new gas-fired power station with carbon capture and storage at Peterhead. While Labour have committed £22 billion to CCUS as part of their path to net zero, independent research from Carbon Tracker estimates that the emissions from the plant will be up to 5 times higher than SSE are claiming. Come and learn about the grim reality of CCUS, the dangers of a new gasfired power plant, and how Scottish Labour Members can help stop this disastrous SSE project.

Speakers: Rosemary Harris, Oil Change International; Richard Collet-White, Carbon Tracker; Carys Boughton, Platform; Alex Lee, Friends of the Earth Scotland

Room: Carron 2

Time: 8:30am – 9:30am

Refreshments: Pastries, Tea & Coffee and juices provided.

Organisation: IPPR Scotland, RenewableUK, and Scottish Renewables

Subject: A four nations approach to Labour's Clean Energy Mission: Collaborating to deliver jobs and investment

Summary: The new Labour government has made a commitment to deliver clean power by 2030. This was a key pledge of the 2024 election manifesto, and decarbonising the energy system is positioned as the cornerstone of industrial strategies across the UK and devolved governments. Following the launch of IPPR’s report, Everything, everywhere, all at once, we are keen to discuss how we can encourage coordination and collaboration to address existing challenges such as capacity constraints, skills challenges, lack of infrastructure, and a lack of manufacturing capacity, to supercharge the energy mission. With GB Energy due to be based in Aberdeen, Scotland will play a central role in this network. At this private, invitation-only roundtable, we will bring together policymakers, industry, and experts to discuss both the roles of key actors and a framework for navigating interactions between various devolved and reserved powers, and, ultimately, how to better work together to deliver the jobs and investment required for Labour to achieve its energy mission.

Speakers: Michael Shanks MP, Minister for Energy Security and Net Zero (invited); Sarah Boyack MSP, Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero, Energy and Just Transition (invited); Claire Mack, Chief Executive, Scottish Renewables; Stephen Boyd, IPPR Scotland Room: Dochart 2

Time: 8:15am – 9:15am

Refreshments: TBC

INVITE ONLY

Organisation: Labour Women’s Declaration Scotland

Subject: Does sex matter to Scottish Labour?

Summary: A discussion about the Supreme Court ruling on the For Women Scotland appeal. What are the key questions for Scottish Labour's 2026 manifesto?

Speakers: Aidan O'Neill KC, Susan Smith, For Women Scotland, Lucy Hunter Blackburn, Murray Blackburn Mackenzie. The event will be chaired by Ann Henderson, Labour Women's Declaration Scotland.

Room: Dochart 1

Time: 8:30am – 9:30am

Organisation: EnBW

Subject: GB Energy delivering for Scotland: How can it achieve its aims?

Summary: The success of Great British Energy (GBE) is key to the government’s mission to make the UK a clean energy superpower, decarbonising electricity generation whilst reducing energy bills by 2030. At present, there remain calls for further clarity on GBE’s remit and goals. While many of GBE’s objectives are complimentary –including reducing bills, supporting domestic supply chains, creating jobs, bolstering the journey to net zero, and returning profits to the Treasury – there is also inevitable competition. For example, navigating the path between decarbonising the grid, reducing bills for consumers, and boosting green jobs will require trade-offs and prioritisation of outcomes for GBE.

This panel discussion will examine new research that has explored other models of publicly owned energy companies in Europe, including EnBW, and highlight potential solutions that could inform GBE’s governance, financing, operating functions, and outlook as GBE evolves towards and beyond 2030.

Speakers: Michael Shanks MP, Minister for Energy; Damien Zachlod, Managing Director, EnBW Generation UK

Room: Hilton Garden Inn Glasgow City Centre in the Finnieston Suite

Time: 9:00am – 10:00am

Refreshments: Yes

SATURDAY 22 FEBRUARY

Organisation: Holyrood in partnership with Coca Cola Europacific Partners

Subject: Finding a UK-wide solution to the DRS roll-out

Summary: In June 2023, the Scottish Government confirmed that its long planned for deposit return scheme (DRS) - originally due to be launched in the August - would be delayed until at least October 2025. It was then axed altogether after the UK Government declined a full request for full exclusion from the Internal Market Act which meant Scotland could not include glass in the scheme. Amid recriminations and accusations that the Scottish Government had failed to adequately engage with business, the industry remains out of pocket by millions of pounds; a solution to the environmental impact has still to be resolved; and there are already a number of businesses now involved in live legal proceedings seeking compensation for lost investment.

With business relations strained, the Scottish taxpayer potentially facing a hefty bill for an abandoned policy, and the climate change priorities that were meant to be at the heart of this scheme unresolved, how do we get back on track to deliver a UK-wide scheme that it is widely acknowledged will come with many environmental benefits for Scotland, including increased recycling rates and a reduction in littering and carbon emissions. Join our panel session as we consider how Scotland can be party to delivering a successful DRS scheme as soon as possible, which addresses environmental and business concerns, and works productively alongside equivalent UK schemes.

Speakers: Michael Marra, MSP, Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Finance; Monica Lennon MSP, Net Zero committee member; Sam Jones Director of Policy and Sustainability CCEP; Rosie Bartram, Senior Public Affairs Manager, CCEP

Room: Alsh 1

Time: 12:30pm – 1:30pm

Refreshments: Sandwiches, cakes, teas and coffees

Organisation: University of St Andrews

Subject: Net zero and beyond: the challenge of energy transition

Summary: The world is at a critical crossroads in energy transition, a change that will shape the very future of our planet. Renewables are growing and clean energy technologies are advancing, but fossil fuels are still our primary source of energy consumption. The energy system is changing and will look very different by 2030 and beyond affecting the lives of us all.

Hear from an expert panel about the steps we must take to tackle one of humanity’s greatest challenges.

Speakers: Daniel Johnson MSP, Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Business and Fair Work; Professor John Irvine CBE, University of St Andrews; Jenny Stanning, External Relations Director, Offshore Energies UK; Professor Campbell Booth, University of Strathclyde; Guy Jefferson, Managing Director Transmission, SP Energy Networks Room: Alsh 2

Time: 12:30pm – 1:30pm

Refreshments: Lunch and refreshments provided

Organisation: Net Zero Technology Centre

Subject: How to harness Scotland’s innovation advantage

Summary: With a bold vision to achieve clean energy by 2030, the Net Zero Technology Centre is at the heart of driving innovation and change. By bridging the gap between innovators, government, and industry, we’re accelerating the development of breakthrough technologies essential for the UK’s net zero future.

Join us for a provocative discussion exploring how innovation can grow the economy and create jobs.

Speakers: Minister for Energy Michael Shanks MP; Myrtle Dawes, Chief Executive of the Net Zero Technology Centre; Sara Thiam, Chief Executive of Prosper Room: Boisdale 1

Time: 12:30pm – 1:30pm

Refreshments: A selection of sandwiches, teas, coffees and refreshments will be available.

Organisation: UNISON Scotland and Poverty Alliance

Subject: Invest in public services to combat poverty

Summary: Public services are at the heart of a fairer Scotland and they have a crucial role in reducing poverty. UNISON are the public services union and Poverty Alliance bring people together to combat poverty. Come to our fringe and join the debate on how we ensure public services get the investment they need to help end poverty in Scotland.

Speakers: Rhoda Grant MSP; Mark Ferguson UNISON Scotland Convenor; Poverty Alliance speaker to be confirmed Room: Boisdale 2

Time: 12:30pm – 1:30pm

Refreshments: Sandwiches, teas and coffees

Organisation: Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS)

Subject: Education Matters

Summary: Paula McEwan, EIS Ex-President and Andrea Bradley, EIS General Secretary, discuss the current issues in Scottish Education with Pam Duncan-Glancy MSP, Scottish Labour Party Spokesperson for Education. Followed by a Q & A session.

Speakers: Paula McEwan, EIS Ex-President; Andrea Bradley, EIS General Secretary; Pam Duncan-Glancy, MSP (tbc)

Room: Carron 1

Time: 12.30pm - 1.30pm

Refreshments: Lunch will be provided

Organisation: Railway Industry Association

Scotland

Subject: Investing in Scotland's Rail Network

- In Conversation with CLAIRE BAKER MSP (Shadow Transport Minister)

Summary: The Railway Industry Association celebrates 150 years in 2025. RIA in Scotland supports rail suppliers across the nation, providing a voice for the sector. The rail network provides vital transport arteries across Scotland but it is an ageing network. Join us for a lively hour of views and discussion around the need for investment and growth within Scotland's railways.

Speakers: Claire Baker MSP, Scottish Labour's shadow Transport Minister; Campbell Braid, Chair and Lorna Gibson, Vice Chair of RIA Scotland's Leadership Group; event chaired by former journalist Devin Scobie

Room: Carron 2

Time: 12:30pm – 1:30pm

Refreshments: Sandwiches and soft drinks will be available

Organisation: Marie Curie

Subject: Beyond assisted dying: fixing palliative and end of life care for all

Summary: Everyone deserves to be well cared for and supported at the end of their lives but too many people are missing out on the palliative care and support they need. Irrespective of any change in the law on assisted dying we need to fix palliative and end of life care. Join an urgent conversation on the reforms we need to make sure everyone gets the palliative care and support they need at the end of life.

Speakers: Zubir Ahmed MP, Jackie Baillie MSP, Amy Dalrymple (Marie Curie Chair), Paul Sweeney MSP

Room: Dochart 1

Time: 12:30pm – 1:30pm

Refreshments: Lunch provided

Organisation: GMB Scotland

Subject: Equal Pay – Councils in Crisis

Summary: Far from being over, pay discrimination remains widespread across Scotland’s councils. Workers in womendominated roles such as social care and schools are still fighting for equal pay with multiple blocks being put in their way. Hear from the women who have fought and won and those who are still fighting for equality in Scotland’s most vital frontline services about their experiences and the action needed from Councillors, MSPs and MPs to deliver pay justice.

Speakers: Cara Stevenson (Women’s Campaign Unit, GMB Scotland); Shirley Furie, Sheltered Housing Supervisor (West Dunbartonshire Rep), Nicola McCarter-Gall, Home Carer (Falkirk Rep), Kate Walker, Home Carer (South Lanarkshire Branch Secretary)

Room: Dochart 2

Time: 12:30pm – 1:30pm

Refreshments: Light Lunch Available

SATURDAY 22 FEBRUARY – EVENING

Organisation: Holyrood in partnership with Scottish Association of Social Work, The Royal College of Nursing Scotland, The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, and The British Medical Association

Subject: Building a Future Focused Sustainable Workforce for Scotland’s Health and Social Work Sector Summary: Join Holyrood as we discuss how we can secure a sustainable health and social work workforce fit for the future.

This year’s Health and Social Work Hub will focus on establishing the steps that need to be taken to create a sustainable workforce within the health and social work sector.

Bringing together representatives from

the Royal College of Nursing Scotland, the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy Scotland, the British Medical Association, and the Scottish Association of Social Work, we will explore how we can expand the workforce supporting graduates into the relevant job market and creating a sustainable health and social work system through strategies like prioritised preventative care.

Speakers: Jackie Baillie MSP, Deputy Leader of Scottish and Shadow Cabinet Secretary for NHS Recovery, Health and Social Care and Drugs Policy; Alison Bavidge, National Director, British Association of Social Workers; Dr Iain Kennedy, Chair of Scottish Council, British Medical Association; Kenryck LloydJones, Public affairs and policy manager for Scotland, The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy; The Royal College of Nursing Scotland representative; chaired by Mandy Rhodes, Managing Director, Holyrood Communications and Editor, Holyrood Magazine

Room: Alsh 1

Time: 5:30pm – 6:30pm

Refreshments: Canapes and drinks, including soft drinks

Organisation: Coalfields Regeneration Trust

Subject: Building Community Wealth

Summary: The Coalfields Regeneration Trust has an exciting new vision to build community wealth in Scotland’s coalfields. As we mark 40 years since the end of the Miners’ Strike it is important that we address the legacy and new challenges affecting the coalfields. We want to build a future for coalfield communities in Scotland which creates jobs, economic growth and improves health, skills and the climate to create the future people living in coalfield communities deserve.

Please join us at our fringe event for drinks and the opportunity to hear about the work the CRT is currently doing in coalfield communities across Scotland and our plans for the future.

Speakers: Claire Baker MSP; Nicky Wilson, Vice-Chair CRT; Bob Young, CRT Trustee; Pauline Grandison, Head of OperationsScotland

Room: Alsh 2

Time: 5:30pm – 6:30pm

Organisation: The Joseph Rowntree Foundation

Subject: 250,000 reasons why the next Scottish Parliament must deliver significant reductions in child poverty

Summary: Scotland continues to see unacceptable levels of poverty with over a million people living in poverty, including over a quarter of a million children.

With Scottish Parliament’s child poverty reduction targets looming and poverty trends showing only modest signs of improvement, the next Parliamentary term will be a litmus test of Holyrood's ability to deliver for the children of Scotland.

To meet this challenge, we will need to raise the bar in terms of what parties commit to and deliver. This session will delve into the policy options available to the next Scottish Government, look at what has worked and show the scale and pace of action required to address child poverty.

Speakers: Chris Birt, JRF, Associate Director for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland; Paul O’Kane MSP and Emma Jackson, Citizens Advice Scotland, Strategic lead for Scotland Room: Boisdale 1

Time: 5:30pm – 6:30pm

Refreshments: Soft drinks and small plates

Organisation: The Open University in Scotland

Subject: Focussing on Future Skills

Summary: Join us to hear the panel give their thoughts on the future skills needs of Scotland’s workforce to give the country the best opportunity to meet the economic and social challenges

Speakers: Daniel Johnson MSP, Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Business and Fair Work; Jane Grant, Depute Director, External Engagement and Partnerships, The Open University in Scotland; Sara Thiam, Chief Executive, Prosper; Jonathan Guthrie, Director for Strategic Partnerships, Robertson Group; Chaired by Susan Stewart, Director, The Open University in Scotland Room: Boisdale 2

Time: 5:30pm – 6:30pm

Refreshments: Canapes and drinks will be served

Organisation: RSPB Scotland and Nature Friendly Farming Network

Subject: Supporting Farmers and Crofters to Tackle the Nature and Climate Emergency

Summary: We will discuss how people with knowledge of working the land, often for generations, are at the forefront of tackling the nature and climate emergency, and how governments should support them to do more.

Speakers: Rhoda Grant MSP (chair); Anne McCall, Director, RSPB Scotland; Cora Cooper, Nature Friendly Farming Network Steering Group member; Adam Forrest, Scotland Manager, Nature Friendly Farming Network

Room: Carron 1

Time: 5:30pm – 6:30pm

Refreshments: Canapes and drinks

Organisation: WWF Scotland and Labour Climate & Environment Forum (LCEF)

Subject: Back of the Net (Zero): A Winning Case for Climate Action

Summary: Tackling the climate crisis is consistently considered a key issue for Scottish voters across the political spectrum. This event will explore how Labour can establish its climate ambition in the centre ground of Scottish politics in the runup to the 2026 election and ensure the opportunities of a just transition – energy security, good-quality jobs, local growth –are shared by all.

Speakers: Minister for Energy Michael Shanks MP, Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Finance Michael Marra MSP, Claire Daly, WWF Scotland & Paul McNamee, Director LCEF & a representative of the Renewable energy sector.

Room: Carron 2

Time: 5:30pm – 6:30pm

Refreshments: Food and refreshments provided

Organisation: NASUWT Scotland

Subject: Education at a Crossroads

Summary: The big issues in Scottish education are many and varied: recruitment and retention challenges; problems with pupil behaviour; excessive teacher workload; and proposed education reforms (including new national bodies scheduled to come into being later this year).

Come and hear Pam Duncan-Glancy MSP and NASUWT National Official, Mike Corbett, outline these issues and suggest how they might be addressed.

Speakers: Pam Duncan-Glancy MSP and Mike Corbett, National Official, NASUWT

Scotland

Room: Dochart 1

Time: 5:30pm - 6:30pm

Refreshments: Tea, coffee & biscuits

Organisation: Independent Age

Subject: Why action on pensioner poverty is essential: looking ahead to the 2026 election

Summary: Independent Age is the national charity for older people on low incomes. In Scotland, 150,000 pensioners live in poverty – a number that has risen over the last decade. As we approach the 2026 Scottish Parliamentary election, what action is required to reduce pensioner poverty?

Join us, to discuss the experiences of older people living in poverty and what the solutions are. You’ll also hear from researcher and pollster, Mark Diffley, about our exclusive polling on the lives and views of older voters in Scotland.

Speakers: Colin Smyth MSP, Morgan Vine (Independent Age), Mark Diffley (Diffley Partnership), Coatbridge CAB

Room: Dochart 2

Time: 5:30pm – 6:30pm

Refreshments: Canapes & non-alcoholic beverages (tea/coffee/water)

Organisation: Scottish Swimming

Subject: The Importance of Swimming Pools and School Swimming

Summary: Swimming facilities provide essential spaces for everyone to learn to swim, deliver critical health and wellbeing outcomes, and develop future world class athletes across a variety of aquatic sports. The importance of these facilities extends far beyond the pool itself. They serve as vital community hubs that foster social cohesion, promote physical and mental health, and support a lifelong enjoyment of swimming. Triple Olympian Hannah Miley MBE will discuss and debate the future of Scotland’s swimming facilities and the requirement for school swimming for current and future generations.

Speakers: Hannah Miley MBE, Triple Olympian, World and Commonwealth Champion; Neil Bibby MSP; Sophie McCall Director of Aquatics Development, Scottish Swimming Room: Alsh 1

Time: 8:30am - 9:30am

Refreshments: Coffee, Tea, Breakfast Pastries

Organisation: Uplift

Subject: From Ambition to Action: How Labour can deliver for climate and jobs in Scotland

Summary: Scotland is at the forefront of the UK’s energy transition, with the opportunity for Scotland’s communities and economy to benefit from harnessing its abundant natural resources. However if tangible steps are not taken to ensure a just transition to clean energy then Scotland’s communities and workers will be the losers. Scotland is a leader in deployment of wind energy but, so far, there has been a failure to establish domestic manufacturing capabilities. A typical North Sea turbine contains more than three times as much material content from abroad as it does from domestic manufacturers. Workers and communities in Scotland are currently missing out on tangible, good quality, permanent jobs in the transition to renewable energy.

The UK Labour Government has set out its plans for a new era of clean energy. A truly just clean energy transition can end our reliance on volatile fossil fuel markets, bring down bills and create good green jobs. Looking ahead to the 2026 Scottish Parliament election, this event will explore the steps required in Scotland to realise a just transition for Scotland’s workers and communities and the collaboration needed between the UK and Scottish Governments to deliver this.

Speakers: Monica Lennon, MSP for Central Scotland (Chair); Torcuil Crichton, MP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar; Dr Ewan Gibbs, Energy Historian, Senior Lecturer at the University of Glasgow; Roz Foyer, General Secretary, Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC); Anna Carthy, Senior Policy Researcher, Uplift Room: Alsh 2

Time: 8:30am - 9:30am

Refreshments: Breakfast provided

Organisation: The Promise Scotland

Subject: Keeping the promise: reflecting on the past 5 years and looking forward to 2030.

Summary: On the 5th of February 2020, Scotland made a promise that all children would grow up loved, safe and respected so that they can realise their full potential. The promise was made following the conclusions of the Independent Care Review which listened carefully to over 5,500 experiences from children and young people with experience of the ‘care system’, care experienced adults, families, and the paid and unpaid workforce.

Join us 5 years on from when the promise was made. We will reflect on the progress made so far, led by dedicated and caring members of the workforce, and discuss what still must be done to create meaningful, long-lasting, transformational change in the lives of children, young people, families and care experienced adults across the country, so that the promise can be kept in full by 2030 at the very latest.

Speakers: Martin Whitfield MSP, Fiona Duncan (Independent Strategic Advisor for the promise), Fraser McKinlay (Chief Executive, The Promise Scotland) and Jemma Kerr (Member of The Oversight Board)

Room: Boisdale 1

Time: 8:30am – 9:30am

Refreshments: Teas/coffees and hot rolls

Organisation: Robert Gordon University and North East Scotland College

Subject: A Timetable for Change – What do we need from our universities and colleges?

Summary: Scotland’s education and skills system is undergoing significant reform and, at the same time, our universities and colleges are facing unprecedented financial challenges. Panellists will offer their expert insights and informed perspectives on how they will tackle these challenges head on to ensure that Scotland and its young people are given a platform to thrive for generations to come.

Key subjects vary from what we need from our universities and colleges to what we as both learners and employers expect from our universities and colleges. Moreover, how can we collectively ensure that our universities and colleges deliver the education and skills that Scotland needs to be a prosperous and forward-thinking nation? Panellists will also discuss the importance of partnership and how RGU and NESCol are working together to equip students with what they need in an ever-evolving society.

Speakers: Chair: Councillor Sandra Macdonald, Aberdeen City Council; Panellists: Pam Duncan-Glancy MSP; Spokesperson on Education and Skills; Professor Steve Olivier, Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Robert Gordon University; Neil Cowie, Principal and Chief Executive, North East Scotland College; Zoe Frieslick, RGU Applied Social Sciences

Graduate

Room: Boisdale 2

Time: 8:30am – 9:30am

Refreshments: Tea / Coffee; Breakfast rolls

Organisation: Prosper and Nationwide Subject: Resilience in Places – the Role of Financial Inclusion

Summary: To join this event, please visit bit.ly/prosperpc or contact peter.hourston@prosper.scot Prosper and Nationwide are pleased to be working together to deliver this roundtable. This briefing event will explore the ways in which bank and building society branches have a continued role in supporting communities, given not only the financial role they play but also their wider contribution to society and community life.

Speakers: Nationwide’s Director of Retail Banking, Mandy Beech, will give some opening remarks on the topic, followed by a panel session with: Victoria Carson, Engagement and Influence Director, The Wise Group; David Lonsdale, Director, Scottish Retail Consortium; Daniel Johnson MSP, Labour's spokesperson on the Economy, Business and Fair Work; Douglas Alexander MP, Minister of State for Trade Policy (invited) Room: Carron 1

Time: 8:30am - 9:30am

Refreshments: Tea, coffee and pastries

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Scottish Labour’s plan to

Organisation: Campaign Against Assisted Dying (CAAD)

Subject: Assisted Suicide – National Legislative Proposals: All people deserve to be safe, without exception

Summary: National Alliance speakers explore the concerns of medics, disabled people, community-civic life and grassroots networking.

Speakers: Gordon McDonald, (CEO) Care not Killing; Marianne Scobie, Glasgow Disability Alliance; Brian Cairns, Campaign Against Assisted Dying.

Room: Carron 2

Time: 8:30am – 9:30am

Organisation: Electoral Reform Society

Subject: How do we fix our broken politics?

Summary: In a recent survey, 47% of respondents said that none of the current political parties represent their views and values very closely. Meanwhile, 59% said they felt that “the UK’s best years are behind us”. This, after the most disproportionate election in U.K. history. After a long period of economic and political volatility, our society faces real challenges. That means we need a better democracy - one fit to solve the problems of the 21st century.

To do that, we need to understand what breeds alienation and creates the conditions for the rise of populism and reactionary parties. How can we improve our institutions? How can we bring power closer to our communities? How can we restore trust in politics? Come to this fringe to discuss these pressing issues.

Speakers: Dave Watson, Building a Local Scotland; Lynn Henderson, Politics for the Many; Willie Sullivan, Senior Director, Electoral Reform Society; Chair: Alice Kinghorn-Gray, ERS Scotland

Room: Dochart 1

Time: 8:30am - 9:30am

Refreshments: Breakfast options provided

Organisation: Crisis

Subject: Preventing homelessness in Scotland

Summary: Homelessness in Scotland is now at record levels – with more than 10,000 children trapped in temporary accommodation and local authorities across the country declaring a state of ‘housing emergency’.

The Housing Bill (Scotland) provides an opportunity to help stop more people being forced into homelessness, by allowing people at risk of homelessness to get help earlier, and widen responsibility for helping people stay in their homes. What needs to be done to make the Bill a success?

Crisis is the national charity for people experiencing homelessness – running direct services for people in housing crisis, while also campaigning for the changes needed to end homelessness altogether. Join us, alongside a panel of experts, to hear how Scotland can address the housing emergency through stronger prevention support, and build a Scotland where everyone has a safe, secure place to call home.

Speakers: Mark Griffin MSP, deputy party spokesperson on housing; Maeve McGoldrick, head of policy and communications, Crisis Scotland; Professor Suzanne Fitzpatrick, director of Heriot-Watt University’s Institute for Social Policy, Housing, Equalities Research; Edinburgh Council Leader, Cllr Jane Meagher Room: Dochart 2

Time: 8:30am - 9:30am

Refreshments: Hot rolls and hot drinks provided

EXHIBITION

EXHIBITION LAYOUT

EXHIBITORS

Aberlour A1

Nourish Scotland A2

Scottish Labour information stand A3

Delegate services A4

UNISON B1

British Heart Foundation B2

The Royal Society of Edinburgh B3

Engender B4

Chest, Heart & Stroke Scotland B5

Tax Justice Scotland B6

Ukraine Solidarity Campaign

Scotland B7

The Scottish Rewilding Alliance B8

Scottish Co-Operative Party B9

Young Lives vs Cancer B10

Marie Curie C1

Asthma + Lung UK Scotland C2

Care Not Killing C3

Scottish Police Federation C4

Save The Children C5

Electrical Safety First C6

EIS - Educational Institute of Scotland C7

Guide Dogs C8

Social Enterprise Scotland C9

Revive C10

Charging Zone C11

ACTSA Scotland C13

Stepchange Scotland C14

Friends of the Earth C15

SAMH (Scottish Action For Mental Health) C16

Scottish Labour Digital D1

WWF Scotland D4

Labour Friends of the Forces D5

Royal College of Psychiatrists in Scotland D6

Change Mental Health D7

Scottish Swimming D8

411 D9

SGN D10

The Trussell Trust D11

Renewable Energy Systems D12

RWE D13

Exhibition Organisers D14

SSE E1

Bank of Scotland Foundation E2

Phoenix Group E4

Scottish Professional Football League E5

Coalfields Regeneration F1

Scottish Sea Farms F2

NCD Alliance F3

Alcohol Focus Scotland F4

Labour Women's Declaration F5

Wood Panel Industry Federation F6

CWP Energy F7

The Fire Brigades Union F9

Shetland Islands Council G2

Scottish Autism G3

Cancer Research UK G8

RailFuture Scotland G9

Stroke Association G10

BE-ST G11

RNIB Scotland H1

Who Cares? Scotland H2

Labour Campaign for Electoral Reform H3

Health and Social Care Alliance

Scotland H4

NSPCC H5

Labour Party Northern Ireland H6

Ramblers Scotland H7

European Movement in Scotland H8

First Bus H9

EXHIBITORS

Alphabetical List

ACTSA Scotland Stand C13

ACTSA Scotland campaigns for justice and development in Southern Africa, encourages links with the region, and works closely with the Nelson Mandela Scottish Memorial Foundation to create a permanent memorial in Scotland to Mandela, his links with Scotland and his lessons for all who value social and racial justice. mandelascottishmemorial.org

Aberlour

Stand A1

Aberlour is Scotland’s largest Scottish only children’s charity. We work with disadvantaged, marginalised and discriminated against children, young people and families. We help to overcome significant challenges families face, such as the impact of drugs and alcohol, growing up in and leaving care, poor mental health, living with a disability, or the impact of poverty and disadvantage. All children have a right to grow up free from poverty. Ending child poverty is Aberlour’s central mission.

Alcohol Focus Scotland Stand F4

Alcohol Focus Scotland is an independent charity working to prevent and reduce alcohol harm by promoting cost-effective action that works for people and reduces inequalities. We work to ensure that policy and practice relevant to alcohol is grounded in evidence and in the experience of people affected by it.

Asthma + Lung UK Scotland

Stand C2

Asthma + Lung UK Scotland is the leading lung health charity representing the 1 in 5 people diagnosed with a lung condition. It is our mission to reduce ill health and mortality caused by lung conditions, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and bronchiectasis. We campaign for better prevention, diagnosis and treatment, and to support people manage their conditions. We’re here for your right to breathe. www.asthmaandlung.org.uk/ scotland

Bank of Scotland Foundation Stand E2

Bank of Scotland Foundation is an independent charity funded by Lloyds Banking Group. Dedicated to making a meaningful impact on Scotland s vulnerable communities since 2010, the Foundation has distributed £43m to over 2,800 charities across the country, supporting them through some of the most challenging times faced in recent years.

British Heart Foundation Stand B2

BHF Scotland is the largest independent funder of cardiovascular research in Scotland. We currently fund research worth over £52 million with the aim of improving the lives of the 700,000 people living with heart and circulatory diseases in Scotland. www.bhf.org.uk/what-we-do/inyour-area/scotland

BE-ST Stand G11

BE-ST is the launchpad to a zerocarbon built environment. We are on a mission to accelerate the built environment’s just transition to net zero carbon. We do this by providing the connections and infrastructure the sector needs to solve its most pressing challenges. BE-ST creates a culture where collaboration and innovation are championed to create a built environment that delivers inclusive and sustainable economic, social and environmental impact.

https://www.be-st.build/

CWP Energy Stand F7

CWP Energy, established in 2001, has a leading role in renewable Energy Generation in the UK, with a portfolio exceeding 3GW and £1bn investment. Dynamically evolved from onshore wind, to now include solar, battery storage, and green hydrogen. Contributing to the UK’s transition to Net Zero, whilst supporting our host communities with over £10m of Community Investment. With a strong commitment to innovation and sustainability, CWP Energy continues the growth of renewable energy and investment.

Cancer Research UK Stand G8

Cancer Research UK is the world’s largest independent cancer charity dedicated to saving lives through research. We support research into over 200 types of cancer, and our vision is to bring forward the day when all cancers are cured. In 2023/24, we invested over £31 million in research in Scotland. www.cancerresearchuk.org

Change Mental Health Stand D7

Our vision is a future where no-one faces mental illness alone. Change Mental Health is a national mental health charity delivering nonclinical, person-centred mental health support to over 10,000 people in communities across Scotland per year. Please drop by our stand to discuss tackling mental health in Scotland.

Charging Zone Stand C11

Care Not Killing Stand C3

With the NHS broken and in crisis, is assisted suicide safe for the vulnerable, disabled or the elderly? Labour wants to fix the NHS. Legalising assisted suicide will pressure people to end their lives so as not to be a burden on family, the NHS or carers? Care Not Killing believes that assisted suicide can never be safe and with the pressures facing the NHS, palliative and social care, this is the wrong time even to consider legalising it. www.carenotkilling.uk/3doors www.carenotkilling.scot

Chest, Heart & Stroke Scotland Stand B5

We are Scotland’s largest health charity helping people with chest, heart and stroke conditions live life to the full. Many people living with our conditions struggle to cope with the impact of their health condition on their everyday lives. Our amazing nurses, support workers & volunteers are here to make sure no one has to recover alone. Visit our stand to hear more about our Right to Rehab campaign, and the support we provide to help people live full lives with life changing health conditions.

Coalfields Regeneration Stand F1

The Coalfields Regeneration Trust is a community wealth building charity operating in Scotland’s coalfield areas. We create jobs and economic growth by building industrial units for SMEs and using our taxable profits to generate social value through working with partners to enable our communities to reach their full potential.

Delegate Services Stand A4

EIS - Educational Institute of Scotland

Stand C7

The Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS) isScotland’s largest teaching trade union with almost 65,000 members employed in nursery, primary, special, secondary, further and higher education. The EIS represents over 80% of all teachers and lecturers in Scotland and campaigns to protect and improve their pay and conditions of service as well as seeking to promote “sound learning” across all sectors https://www.eis.org.uk/

Electrical Safety First Stand C6

Electrical Safety First is the charity dedicated to reducing deaths and injuries caused by electrical accidents. Our aim is to ensure everyone in the UK can use electricity safely. We campaign on behalf of consumers to improve electrical safety regulation and make sure that safety messages are appropriate, up-to-date and well communicated. For more information about our work, visit: https://www.electricalsafetyfirst.org. uk/scotland

Engender Stand B4

Engender is Scotland’s feminist policy and advocacy organisation, working to increase women’s social, political and economic equality, enable women s rights, and make visible the impact of sexism on women and wider society. We work at Scottish, UK and international level to produce research, analysis, and recommendations for intersectional feminist legislation and programmes.

European Movement in Scotland Stand H8

The European Movement in Scotland (EMiS) is the foremost proEU, pro-Europe, non-party political campaigning organisation in Scotland. We campaign to promote the European Union and Scotland’s fullest possible participation now and in the future. We act as the voice for all those interested in promoting and maintaining Scotland’s connection with Europe and the EU. For more information or to join the Movement visit www.euromovescotland.org.uk or @EuroMoveScot

Exhibition Organisers Stand D14

The exhibition is organised by Kennedy Events Consultancy. www.kennedyeventsconsultancy. com

First Bus Stand H9

Working in partnership with key stakeholders, First Bus provides efficient, low carbon public transport across Greater Glasgow and Aberdeen. Through battery electric and hydrogen buses, our dedicated workforce delivers essential and sustainable bus services that keep communities connected.

www.firstbus.co.uk

411

Stand D9

411 is a digital communications agency born from the team behind the Labour Party’s historic 2024 general election victory. We are dedicated to driving progressive change, partnering with clients across the UK and globally to deliver impactful campaigns. At 411, we understand that the media landscape has undergone a seismic shift. Leading the evening news is no longer enough to influence key audiences or shape the narrative. www.fouroneone.co.uk/

Friends of the Earth Stand C15

Friends of the Earth Scotland campaign for a world where everyone can enjoy a healthy environment and a fair share of the Earth’s resources. Climate change is the greatest threat to this aim, that’s why we’re calling for a just transition to a 100% renewable, nuclear-free, zero-fossil-fuel Scotland. Come and hear about our campaigns and how we can get big finance to divest from fossil fuels. www.foe.scot

Guide Dogs Stand C8

Guide Dogs is here to help the two million people living with sight loss in the UK live the life they choose Our expert staff, volunteers and life-changing dogs are here to help people affected by sight loss live actively, independently and well. www.guidedogs.org.uk

Health and Social Care Alliance Scotland

Stand H4

The ALLIANCE is the national third sector intermediary for health and social care, bringing together a diverse range of people and organisations who share our vision,which is a Scotland where everyone has a strong voice and enjoys their right to live well with dignity and respect.

Labour Campaign for Electoral Reform Stand H3

LCER seeks a better democracy. Following its campaign with the ‘Labour for a New Democracy’ coalition, the Labour Conference in 2022 backed proportional representation (‘PR’). We now need government action to put PR into practice and thereby give us fairer elections which engage people and make their votes count.

Labour Friends of the Forces Stand D5

Labour Friends of the Forces provides the link between our armed forces community and the Labour Party. Our members include serving regular and reserve personnel, veterans, service families, Armed Forces Champions and elected Labour representatives at all levels of government across the country.

Labour Women's Declaration Stand F5

Labour Women's Declaration campaigns for women's sex-based rights within the Labour Party. We do this by working with the members and officials of the Labour Party and the trade union movement, to ensure that women's voices are heard at all levels.

Labour Party Northern Ireland Stand H6

The Labour Party in Northern Ireland campaigns for the democratic right to run Labour Party candidates in Northern Ireland elections. People in Northern Ireland are currently denied the right to vote Labour by the NEC and only have the option of other parties. They therefore cannot contribute to delivering a UK Labour Government. www.labourpartyni.org

Marie Curie Stand C1

Marie Curie is a campaigning and social justice organisation with a mission to close the gap in end of life care to ensure everyone gets the palliative support they need. It is the largest third sector provider of palliative care in the UK, and is the biggest charitable funder of palliative care research in the UK, to better understand unmet palliative care need and support a better end of life for all.

NCD Alliance Stand F3

NCD Alliance Scotland is a group of 24 leading health organisations that campaigns to reduce the harms caused by non-communicable diseases through action on tobacco, alcohol and unhealthy foods and drinks. NCDs are the leading cause of death in Scotland, but many of these deaths can be prevented by public health action.

Nourish Scotland Stand A2

Nourish Scotland is a food policy organisation that works on positive food system transformation. They have recently released a report calling for the creation of new public infrastructure - public diners - a state supported chain of affordable restaurants. Nourish will be at the conference to talk through this new policy proposal. www.publicdiners.org

NSPCC Stand H5

Everything we do protects children today and prevents abuse tomorrow. Visit our stall to hear about NSPCC’s work to help some of the most vulnerable and at-risk children in Scotland. Our policy team will also be on hand to discuss NSPCC’s positions on key policy issues.

www.nspcc.org.uk

Phoenix Group Stand E4

Phoenix Group is the UK’s largest long-term savings and retirement business. With around £290 billion of assets under administration, we offer our c.12 million customers a range of products through our pensions, savings and life insurance brands, including Standard Life. Standard Life has been trusted to look after people’s life savings and retirement needs for nearly 200 years. We serve millions of customers, who come to us directly, through advisers and through their employer pension scheme.

RNIB Scotland Stand H1

The Royal National Institute of Blind People Scotland supports blind and partially sighted people of all ages live as fully and independently as possible. It provides advice, support, training and information aboutequipment. Through its campaigning RNIB Scotland gives people with sight loss a voice. rnib.org.uk/Scotland

RailFuture Scotland Stand G9

RAILFUTURE SCOTLAND: Our Campaign for a Better, Bigger Railway for Social Inclusion and Economic Growth. A more comprehensive rail network is the only route to Net Zero when transport is Scotland s biggest source of climate changing emissions. Railfuture Scotland is an independent voluntary campaign funded by individual members. members. www.railfuture.org.uk

RWE Stand D13

RWE has been a committed, longterm partner to Scotland for over 20 years. We own or operate nearly 500MW of renewable energy capacity across 27 sites, including Scotland’s first commercialscale offshore wind farm. We are investing in Scotland today, with three onshore wind farms currently in construction, set to deliver £25m in community benefits over their lifetimes, and much more to come. Find out more: uk.rwe.com/rwe-in-scotland/

Ramblers Scotland Stand H7

Ramblers Scotland is the national organisation for Scotland’s most popular leisure activity – walking in the outdoors. 20 years ago a Labour-led Scottish Government introduced Scotland’s world-class access rights and it’s time to make sure that these rights are fully enjoyed by everyone. Come and talk to us about how! www.ramblers.org.uk/scotland

Renewable Energy Systems Stand D12

RES is the world s largest independent renewable energy company, operating across 24 countries globally. Headquartered in the UK, with our Global Control Centre in Glasgow across the river from the SEC, we are committed to a clean energy future where everyone has access to affordable zero carbon energy. https://www.res-group.com/

Royal College of Psychiatrists in Scotland Stand D6

As the professional medical body for psychiatry in Scotland, we set standards and promote excellence in psychiatry and mental healthcare. We lead, represent and support psychiatrists nationally to Government and other agencies, aiming to improve the outcomes of people with mental illness, and the mental health of individuals, their families, and communities.

Revive Stand C10

REVIVE is a coalition of animal welfare, environmental and social justice organisations who aim to change the way huge swaths of Scotland is owned and managed, for the benefit of our people, wildlife and environment.

SAMH (Scottish Action For Mental Health) Stand C16

SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health) is Scotland’s mental health charity. We provide mental health support and accessible, practical information. We listen to what matters locally and we campaign nationally. Members of our Young Peoples Panel, age 13-23, advocate for young people s mental health and are attending across the weekend.

samh.org.uk

SGN Stand D10

SGN own and operate Scotland’s gas network, supplying 1.9 million households and businesses with gas to cook, heat homes and power business. SGN recognises that this is a critical moment in Scotland s energy transition and are working to develop practical solutions to decarbonise our network, while at the same time supporting vulnerable customers.

Save The Children Stand C5

We work with children, families and partners across Scotland to challenge poverty, campaign to tackle and prevent the drivers of poverty and lessen its impact on children and families. We amplify the voices and experiences of children, young people, parents and communities and provide opportunities to challenge and solve poverty.

SSE Stand E1

We’re SSE. Our vision is to be a leading energy company in a net-zero world. As one of the UK and Ireland’s leading generators of renewable energy and one of the largest electricity network companies in the UK, sustainability and climate action are at the core of our business strategy. https://www.sse.com/

Scottish Autism Stand G3

Scottish Autism is Scotland s largest autism-specific charity. Headquartered in Alloa, where the charity was founded in 1968, the organisation provides support to autistic people across Scotland via dedicated housing support, outreach services, day opportunities, a national advice line and New Struan School, located in Alloa. The charity also provides training and consultancy services, with the aim of increasing understanding and ensuring autistic people lead happy, healthy and fulfilling lives.

Scottish Co-Operative Party Stand B9

The Scottish Co-operative Party is the party of the co-operative movement in Scotland. We have 11 MSPs in the Scottish Parliament, 3 MPs in the House of Commons and councillors across Scotland. We believe in an economy where power and wealth are shared.

Scottish Police Federation Stand C4

The Scottish Police Federation is the staff association that represents over 99% of the police officers in Scotland; currently more than 16,250 members. With a remit for both the welfare of our members and efficiency of the service we are the only statutory consultative body for the police service in Scotland.

www.spf.org.uk

Twitter: @scotspolfed

Scottish Labour

Stand A3

Information stand

Scottish Labour Digital Stand D1

Come along and record your time at Scottish Conference by taking a selfie for your social media with our branded props, backdrops and maybe a passing politician or two. Meet members of the Scottish Labour team at the cutting edge of digital innovation for tips on how to improve your content and maximise your reach on social media channels.

Scottish Professional Football League Stand E5

This exhibition is a joint venture between the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL), SPFL Trust and Scottish Women’s Premier League, celebrating the positive impact football has on communities across Scotland.

info@spfl.co.uk

Phone: 0141 333 9585

Scottish Swimming Stand D8

Scottish Swimming’s vision is everyone can swim. Join us at stand D8 to find out more about the importance of swimming pools across Scotland and the role school swimming plays in ensuring children are safer in, on and around water. The Save Our Pools campaign has been running since January 2023 to highlight the importance or pools in improving the safety, health and wellbeing of the population. To find out more visit our stand. www.scottishswimming.com

Scottish Sea Farms Stand F2

Scottish Sea Farms has 45 active marine farms, three freshwater hatcheries and two processing facilities. We operate in Shetland, Orkney and down Scotland’s west coast, with around 650 employees, including almost 90 Modern Apprentices. We harvested 25 kilotonnes of salmon in 2023, selling it to 24 countries. We spend over £100 million per year with around 700 Scottish suppliers, and the company and its employees contributed over £12 million in tax last year.

Shetland Islands Council Stand G2

Shetland’s culture, history and geography make it a unique part of the country. But our uniqueness comes with advantages and disadvantages. We are blessed with the wind power the country needs, but we have a higher level of fuel poverty than anywhere else in the country. We have thriving fisheries and aquaculture, growing tourism, and a world-leading spaceport, but our growth is restrained by ageing ferries. Our special islands need a special relationship with the Scottish and UK Governments.

Social Enterprise Scotland Stand C9

We are an independent, membership-led organisation, which has united and represented social enterprises for more than 15 years. As the representative body for social enterprises in Scotland, we are growing a collaborative movement so that all social enterprises have a stronger collective voice. https://socialenterprise.scot/

Stepchange Scotland Stand C14

We are the UK’s leading debt charity, relied on by hundreds of thousands of people across all nations and regions. Our vision is a society free from problem debt. We support people, online and by phone, to take back control of their finances, and we never judge. We are FCA authorised and work with creditors, government, regulators and other charities to provide the best service to our clients, to address the misconceptions around debt stigma, and to change public policy to reduce the risk of debt.

Stroke Association Stand G10

Half of Scotland’s adults have a close connection to stroke. Making stroke a priority will save lives, reduce pressure on health and social care and improve recovery outcomes for survivors. We need support from Scotland’s political influencers to achieve this. Visit our stand to find out what you can do.

Tax Justice Scotland Stand B6

Tax Justice Scotland is a campaign to create a fairer devolved and local tax system, backed by over 50 charities, think tanks, trade unions, economists and academics. Through collaboration with Tax Justice UK, we also campaign to ensure that everyone in the UK benefits from a fair and effective tax system.

The Fire Brigades Union Stand F9

Professional Voice of your Firefighters www.fbu.org.uk

The Royal Society of Edinburgh Stand B3

The Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE), Scotland’s National Academy, is an educational charity operating on a wholly independent and non-partypolitical basis to provide public benefit throughout Scotland.

The Scottish Rewilding Alliance Stand B8

Despite praise for its rewilding progress, Scotland is one of the most nature-depleted countries on Earth. But there is hope – Scotland can lead the way as a Rewilding Nation, tackling the nature and climate crises while creating benefits for people. Hear from some of the people who support rewilding. https://www.rewild.scot/charter

Ukraine Solidarity Campaign Scotland Stand B7

The Ukraine Solidarity Campaign Scotland campaigns with Ukrainian unions, social and environmental organisations for the unconditional withdrawal of Russian troops. We also support Ukrainian unions' defence of their members against the Ukrainian government’s neo-liberal attacks. Our trade union affiliates include UNISON and ASLEF Scotland, and local TUCs.

The Trussell Trust Stand D11

Trussell is an anti-poverty charity and community of food banks, working to end hunger in Scotland and across the UK. Follow us:

X: @TrussellScot BlueSky: @trussellscot.bsky.social Website: https://www.trussell.org.uk/

UNISON Stand B1

UNISON is the Scotland’s largest union, with members providing public services in education, local government, care, the NHS, police service, NDPBs, energy and water. They are employed in the public, voluntary and private sectors.

WWF Scotland Stand D4

WWF Scotland is working for a cleaner, fairer, flourishing environment where people and nature thrive. We’re tackling the main causes of nature loss and climate change, including energy emissions, land use and our food systems. We’re finding solutions to bring our world back to life. Visit us to learn more. www.wwf.org.uk/scotland

Who Cares? Scotland Stand H2

Scotland’s only national independent membership organisation for Care Experienced people. Its strategic vision is to secure a lifetime of equality, respect and love for Care Experienced people. At the heart of its work are the rights of Care Experienced people and the power their voices have to create change. www.whocaresscotland.org

Wood Panel Industry Federation Stand F6

The UK Wood Panel Industry is a successful manufacturing sector which makes products from British timber. Supplying into building, refurbishment, and furniture, 10% of the UK economy is made up of wood panel-reliant industries making the wood panel industry an essential part of everyday British life.

Young Lives vs Cancer Stand B10

Young Lives vs Cancer are the charity supporting children and young people (0-25) with cancer and their families to face whatever challenges cancer brings, with specialist Social Care support, financial grants, and somewhere to stay close to hospital. If they aren’t being heard by the system, we amplify their voices. www.younglivesvscancer.org.uk