02.10.25
Attending my first Political Party Annual Conference was an experience I will not forget anytime soon. As someone who, before joining Naturewatch Foundation, had not had a particularly in-depth following of politics, this was both a revelation and made me even more conscious of the importance of our animal welfare campaign work. It was a full-on two days of policy discussion, activism, emotion, solid campaigning, and, yes, the inevitable dramas and chaotic scenes that ensued around me, as well as controversial political announcements, others vying for recognition, and the world’s media desperate for the scoop or image that would hit the front pages. Clearly, none of that for me; however, more than anything, it was a period that reminded me why political participation matters, and now it is even more important for us to represent those without a voice – our UK wildlife.
Walking into the setting for the events on the first day, I was struck by the sheer scale. The conference centre and fringe events buzzed with energy. MPs, councillors, trade union reps, journalists, grassroots members, season campaigners and me, all gathered under one roof, and venues if you include the ‘fringe’, with a common purpose: to debate, shape, and push forward the vision of a fairer, more equal Britain. My sole aim was to be heard, spread the word of the fantastic work we do, and try to catch the ear of a sympathetic MP who may assist in championing our cause.
The conference agenda was packed. Five days from early morning to late in the day, I was there for two. From keynote speeches and policy debates to fringe events and networking sessions, there was barely time to breathe between sessions. But that intensity was part of what made it so rewarding. With so many relevant events taking place, I had already compiled a list of my intended ‘panel targets’ to promote the charity’s work and our mission of making the world a kinder place for animals.
There were many debates and panels on housing, climate policy, public services, and party reform. These were not just academic conversations – they were rooted in lived experience and enthusiastic belief. Armed with my previous and newfound knowledge, skills, as well as our comprehensive Naturewatch Foundation campaign briefing documents, I felt like I had every right to be there.
The highlight for me, of course, is being able to represent Naturewatch Foundation at an event organised by a small coalition of animal welfare charities, including us. The Protecting Wildlife and Communities from Crime and Anti-social Behaviour in the Countryside panel gave me the opportunity to speak about the findings of our ‘Policing Wildlife Crime’ report, including the key findings and our recommendations for change. To speak alongside MPs and some very distinguished and prominent animal welfare campaigners was something I will never forget. The opportunity to represent the charity, our supporters, and myself was something I am both incredibly grateful for and proud of.
What I took away from the conference was a sense of possibility. Politics can so often feel distant, especially in an era of cynicism and disconnection. But being there, surrounded by people who appear to care deeply about creating change, reminded me that hope and action still have a place in public life.
I left feeling inspired, better informed, and absolutely determined that policy and decision-makers must listen to those in this sector who are experts and have greater experience. If the current government wishes, as they promised in their manifesto, to “give the biggest boost to animal welfare in a generation,” then now is the time to listen to us. Attending the Labour Party Conference as a first timer was not just a political experience – it was a personal one. It gave me the confidence to believe that our voice matters, and that together with our supporters’ kind donations, we may shape the future for animal welfare.
