Party faithful on the conference trail

As a delegate, just before Scottish Conference is when I go through thinking "why did I ever agree to go?" - nothing to wear and everything to wash, speeches half prepared, unpaid leave and missing a Michael Marra concert. Yet as I write, it all comes back - this is the time for members. It's great to have time to say: "What did you mean by that?". It's also a chance to talk issues through over a drink. I always leave conference understanding more about different perspectives within the Labour movement and how they do, or might, fit together.

My first Scottish Labour conference was when I was 16. I'd just joined the party and had started to get involved. I think my local party were taking a bit of a chance on me by selecting me as their delegate and I was grateful because it was an amazing experience. I felt at home at that first conference because I knew I was in a party that wanted a better life for people. It was obvious I was in a party who wouldn't look the other way whilst life chances were squandered. It was exciting to meet so many people who were passionate about tackling inequality.