Party Conference Programme

Applications for the 2023 Party Conference Programme closed 11:59pm, Sunday 18th June 2023. 

All candidates have received the outcome of their application. If you applied but have not received an email response, please check your spam/junk inbox then email [email protected] and we will get back to you shortly.

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

These Conferences enable elected representatives and party members to discuss and vote on party issues. Away from the Conference, there are several fringe events where small discussions and debates take place.

Attending Conference can be a daunting prospect for some, with thousands of people in one space, including Party members, politicians, journalists, business representatives and other external organisations. At Patchwork, we use the different Conferences as an opportunity to reduce the barriers for young people from underrepresented communities and teach them how they can be involved and active members of our democracy.

Through our programme we provide delegates with a bespoke experience of Conference, including free tickets to one of the main Party Conferences, Roundtable discussions with Senior Party officials, an opportunity to be present for the leader’s speech and special preparation with relevant information to provide the best experience possible, helping to make politics accessible to all.

Eligibility Requirements:

• 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 to one of the Patchwork Conference Programme* 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 campaigning 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 Conference. You can find exact details on the dates below. As a reminder, if successful on the programme your delegate pass will allow you to attend the entire Conference.

Patchwork Conference dates:

• Liberal Democrats Party Conference: 25-26th September
• Conservative Party Conference: 2-4th October
• Labour Party Conference: 9-11th October

Applications for the 2023 Party Conference Programme closed 11:59pm, Sunday 18th June 2023. 

All candidates have received the outcome of their application. If you applied but did not receive an outcome, please check your spam or junk inbox, then email [email protected] and we will get back to you shortly.

Interview dates:

If selected to proceed to interview stage, these will take place online between 5:30-8pm, 4-6th July 2023. You will select your own interview slot dependent on your availability. 

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