Inside PCS conference: A Trainee Delegate’s perspective
This year’s PCS group conferences and annual delegate conference (ADC) took place during the week beginning 19 May 2025 and Golesedi attended for the first time as one of our trainee delegates.
For those unfamiliar, PCS conference is the beating heart of our democratic union - it is our parliament as union members. It’s where PCS members from across the UK come together to shape the direction of our collective work. Over four days, delegates debate motions, vote on key issues, and hear from inspiring guest speakers who are leading voices in the fights for workers’ rights and social justice.
Conference was held in Brighton - a fitting location for such a vibrant and energising event.
My Nottinghamshire branch had three delegates who moved motions, two of which were carried and one lost. They also supported motions, and also presented rights to reply. As a branch, we're incredibly proud of our delegates who are doing the important work of an active branch – writing motions, speaking at conference, and engaging with conference.
Learning by doing
I attended as a trainee delegate, and it was my first time experiencing conference. I had the opportunity to trial various roles to gain experience for future conferences. I also participated in group learning sessions where I was taught how to write motions, deliver effective public speeches in front of a large audience, and understand the formal procedures that govern conference debates.
I learnt how conference adopts standing orders, about references back, tellers counting votes, card votes and scrutineers ensuring fairness in the election process.
It was an invaluable experience that put so much of what we do as a union into perspective for me. I met comrades from all over the country, heard about their local issues, and saw how our shared agenda intersects. It was also deeply inspiring to hear speeches from some of the greatest minds in the social justice space.
Why conference matters
Conference isn’t just a formality - it’s where real change begins. Every motion passed represents a commitment to action. Whether it’s campaigning for better pay, defending pensions, or fighting for equality in the workplace, the work starts here.
It’s also a reminder that our union is only as strong as its members. The more voices we have, the more powerful our collective becomes.
A call to action: Join us
If you’re not yet a PCS member, now is the time to join. And if you’re already a member, consider getting more involved - especially if you’re early in your career. Young workers bring fresh perspectives and energy that our trade union movement needs.
Being part of PCS means having a say in your working conditions, your rights, and your future. It means standing in solidarity with colleagues across the UK. And it means being part of something bigger than yourself.
Let’s keep building. Let’s keep fighting. Let’s keep growing.