Early Morning Run and NEC Conference Reflections – Brighton
It was an early start this morning with a run—well, more of a slow jog—along Brighton seafront. There’s something grounding about getting out before the day properly begins, especially ahead of a full conference schedule.
After a quick turnaround—shower, breakfast, and coffee—it was straight into the NEC pre-conference meeting. Overall, it went reasonably well.
Next NDC. the debates were largely positive, with a number of thoughtful contributions. We also heard speeches from the new UNISON General Secretary, Andrea Egan, as well as from the General Secretary of the Palestine General Federation of Trade Unions. Both were significant contributions and set the tone for the day.
That said, I do think there are some important strategic questions we need to reflect on. In particular, I’m not convinced that there is a full appreciation of the political threat posed by Reform/Restore. Alongside that, I’m concerned that simply attacking Labour—particularly using language that labels them broadly as racist—is not a strategy that will help us achieve what we need.
If our objective is to influence Labour policy so that it aligns more closely with UNISON’s priorities, then we need to think carefully about how we do that effectively. Constructive pressure, engagement, and clarity of purpose are essential. We should always be robust in challenging where necessary, but we also need to ensure that our approach creates space for change rather than closing it down.
At lunchtime, I spent some time handing out flyers outside the conference hall for the UNISON Labour Link Social. It was a good opportunity to speak to delegates and raise awareness of the event.
The Social itself went well. With local Labour MPs attending a by-election in Manchester, we didn’t have the usual panel discussion and debate, which was a bit of a shame. However, the event still provided a valuable chance to catch up with comrades from across the union. Sometimes those informal conversations are just as important—if not more so—than the formal sessions when it comes to building relationships and shaping thinking.
All in all, a busy but worthwhile day: a mix of debate, reflection, and reconnecting with colleagues from across the movement.
Apparently there is some sort of football game going on this evening? as Welsh/Scots I have no idea but wish all UK national teams well :-)
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