WHAT TO EXPECT AS A FIRST-TIME SPEAKER ATTENDING CONFERENCE

As I drove into Eastbourne on the Monday before conference with my fellow delegate and observer, I can remember being filled with apprehension on what the first day would bring and how nervous I would be, standing up in front of my peers from around the United Kingdom and those of the National Executive Committee, speaking for the first time. I remembered there would also be senior officials from the employer present, which further fuelled my anxiety.

It was the night before, where the POA, in partnership with Thompsons Solicitors, hosts a meet-and-great evening, allowing delegates and observers to see one another. Some were introduced for the first time while others reunited with friends, as we alll caught up on events over the year leading up to conference. It also solidifies the camaraderie that’s often felt among the membership.

During the evening, members of the NEC host a firsttime speaker’s session, where each first-time delegate has an opportunity to stand up at the rostrum and practise their introduction, as well as cover the etiquette involved in addressing the audience.

I found this to be productive because all my fellow colleagues were first-time speakers too. We were in the same nervous and apprehensive boat; there to support one another.

JUDGEMENT DAY

On the morning of the first day, I booked in at the main desk and my Nottingham colleague and I were provided with our handheld voting device and paperwork. As we entered the conference hall it all seemed very real now. The hall itself, unlike in the practice session, was now bustling with delegates and observers keenly awaiting for Conference to be opened by the National Chair. We all took our seats and the procession began.

Very quickly my moment to speak came along, which was about the employer providing specialist dog handlers, with HMPPS vehicles to transport prison dogs. I nervously stood up and walked down the row to take my seat at the rostrum.

It was the moment I’d been looking forward to but also dreading. I introduced myself and then the thing I was dreading happened: I froze. My mind drew a blank and wanted a hole to appear and swallow me up. My pause must have been notable because I can recall Mark (surname?) saying, “Don’t worry, take your time”. With those comforting words, I said, “Yeah, no worries,” which cut the tension and got a laugh from the audience.

I quickly engaged in my speech, the nervousness had passed, and the words began to flow. Within what seemed like a few moments, my speech was over and I retook my seat. The NEC official, who was responsible for answering on behalf of the Executive, took up their position at the rostrum and spoke against the motion with valid reasons.

The ultimate decision was now placed upon Conference. At the conclusion of the vote the motion was passed in favour, mandating the National Executive Committee to engage with the employer to seek and lobby to bring about the positive change that we as a group had shaped.

THE AFTERMATH

Soon after, Edward Argar, the UK Minister of State for Prisons, Parole and Probation, took to the rostrum. By his own admission this was his first time addressing an event like this and he’d seen that it was my first time speaking, noting that I had done exceedingly well in my delivery.

The embarrassment that I had initially felt after I had sat down had now disappeared; replaced with pride and excitement of having the opportunity to again stand up and address conference on motions that I, along with fellow members, am passionate about. In doing so, we are shaping our union and providing a direction in which we shall follow, seeking to prosper, for better conditions, and working practices for our members.

From my personal experience, I would encourage and implore, if the opportunity arises, you to attend the POA annual conference and speak as a first-time delegate. I never would have imagined that I would stand up and sway (in a small way) the decision that audience would take, especially with the NEC voting against the motion.

In doing so, you will develop your public speaking and oratory skills, as well as improve your own confidence and capabilities as branch official. You will also be playing an active part in representing your local branch and its members by shaping and formulating union policy.

Overall, I’d say it’s a fantastic opportunity and one I urge you all to undertake.

 

ADAM CLARK – POA BRANCH CHAIR – HM PRISON NOTTINGHAM