CIRC 075: POA FRINGE MEETING AT LABOUR PARTY CONFERENCE – 28TH SEPTEMBER 2026

As part of our continuing campaign to restore the Right to Strike for Prison Officers in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, the POA will be holding a Fringe Meeting at the Labour Party Conference on Monday 28th September from 6.00pm until 9.00pm at the Spanish Caravan, Slater Street, Liverpool, L1 4BX.

Speakers at the event include John McDonnell MP, Ian Byrne MP, Sally Jameson MP (and former Prison Officer), Richard Burgon MP, Ian Lavery MP, Paula Barker MP, Gary Smith, General Secretary of the GMB, and of course Mark Fairhurst, National Chair of the POA, Steve Gillan, General Secretary of the POA, plus many others.

This is an opportunity to highlight the issues affecting our members, hear updates on the POA's work, and contribute directly to the direction of our Campaign.

As Prison Officers, we face challenges every day that few outside our profession truly understand. Increasing violence, staffing pressures, excessive workloads, assaults on staff, and the continuing demands placed upon us all require a strong and united response from our Union. Yet, unlike many other workers, Prison Officers do not possess the right to take industrial action. This Fringe Meeting is another strand to our Campaign to restore our Trade Union and Human Rights.

Any members who wish to attend are more than welcome to do so. A strong turnout will demonstrate the resolve of Prison Officers and reinforce the strength of our collective position.

Any costs for Travel and Subsistence should be met using Branch Funds.

Refreshments will be provided at the venue.

Please bring this Circular to the attention of all members.

Thank you for your anticipated support.

Yours sincerely

Mick Pimblett signature

MICK PIMBLETT
Deputy General Secretary

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Representing over 30,000 Prison, Correctional and Secure Psychiatric Workers, the POA is the largest UK Union in this sector, able to trace its roots back more than 100 years.