Party Conference Programme

During Autumn every year, all British political parties hold Party Conferences across the country, attended by thousands of people working and engaging with politics.

These conferences bring together elected representatives and party members to discuss, debate, and vote on key political issues. Alongside the main conference programme, fringe events provide opportunities for smaller discussions, networking, and in depth debate.

Attending a Party Conference can feel overwhelming, particularly for first time attendees. With thousands of people in attendance, including politicians, journalists, party members, businesses, and campaign organisations, the environment can seem difficult to navigate.

At Patchwork Foundation, we use Party Conferences as an opportunity to break down barriers for young people from underrepresented communities and help them become active participants in democracy.

Through our programme, delegates receive a tailored Conference experience, including complimentary access to one of the major Party Conferences, roundtable discussions with senior political figures, the opportunity to attend the leader’s speech, and dedicated briefing sessions designed to prepare participants and help them make the most of the experience.

By providing guidance, access, and support, we aim to make politics more accessible, inclusive, and engaging for everyone.

Alumni Spotlight

“As a former Patchworker who learnt about the inner sanctums of politics through a Masterclass several years ago, it’s very special to now use some of that knowledge to help guide my journey as a Member of Parliament. Getting involved in a Patchwork Masterclass and a visit to No10 played an important part of me realising that I could have a seat at the table, and that the political world was open to me too. I’m now determined to pay that forward to ensure that the young people of today have the confidence, the knowledge and the insights to be the politicians of tomorrow.”

Conference gallery

Explore highlights from Party Conferences across the country and see young people engaging directly with politics and public life.

Eligibility Requirements:

Eligibility requirements for the #GetInvolved Party Conference programme are outlined below.

Are aged between 18-30 years old for the duration of the Conference programme and residing in the UK.
Identify as a young person who, for economic, social, cultural, geographical or health reasons, faces obstacles that prevent them from having effective access to politics and broader opportunities.
Has not attended an in-party Party Conference before, whether part of the Patchwork Conference programme or not.
Able to give attend the entire duration of one of the Patchwork Conference Programme’s* and complete all pre and post-programme tasks.
Are proactive and committed to making the most out of the whole conference programme.
Have an interest in British Politics or Civil Society, such as engagement in party politics, law, climate initiatives, grassroots activism, social care etc.
Willing to engage in open discourse and remain respectful towards other participants, the organisation and speakers.

“The Patchwork programme takes place on the final 2-3 days of each Party Conference. The full dates for each Party Conference below, and exact dates for the Patchwork Programme will be confirmed shortly. As you will be attending the latter portion of the conference, your delegate pass will allow you to attend the entire Conference.”

Party Conference dates:

Liberal Democrats Party Conference:

Bournemouth, 19th – 22nd September 2026

Labour Party Conference:

Liverpool, 27th – 30th September 2026

Conservative Party Conference:

Birmingham, 4th – 7th October 2026

Green Party Conference:

Brighton, 2th – 4th October 2026

Applications for the 2026 Party Conference Programme will close at 9am, Friday 29th May 2026. Applications will be sifted and, depending on the volume of applications, a shortlist of applicants may be invited to a short interview with the Patchwork team. No late submissions will be accepted.

All candidates will hear back regarding the outcome of their application.

Interview dates:

If selected to proceed to interview stage, these will take place online. You will select your own interview slot dependent on your availability.

Please email our team at [email protected] if you have any questions or can no longer be considered for the Programme.

FAQs

Find answers to the frequently asked questions about the programme below.

Select a question to read the answer