Conference Access Fund

We have established a Conference Access Fund to improve accessibility for members attending conference.  This fund goes towards paying for the British Sign Language interpreters and mobility scooters as well as funds for individuals.

The fund consists of a contribution from the core Conference budget as well as donations from party members. Any contributions made by party members are ring-fenced for this purpose only and where applicable, any unused donations will be carried over to the next conference.

All applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis. If there is high demand, priority will be given to members who are attending Conference for the first time and members from underrepresented sections of society.

Those claiming expenses are expected to search for the cheapest public transport travel and accommodation options (e.g. unless the distance is prohibitive it would be expected party members book a coach). Claims for petrol costs will be considered if there is a legitimate need (e.g. disability).

If you make an application we will aim to let you know after the deadline listed below whether you have been successful or not. Applicants are expected to cover the cost themselves initially and to make a claim post-conference (all relevant receipts must be provided).

All information provided will be treated in strict confidence. We may ask for further information on your circumstances if required.

You can apply for a contribution towards:

Please give as much detail as possible in your application (mode of transport, bus/ train station you are travelling from, number of nights you intend to stay for conference (maximum cover from access fund for Spring Conference is two nights).

Please note that the access fund does not cover subsistence (food and drink) or the cost of buying your conference ticket.

How to apply & application deadline

The deadline for applications for Autumn Conference is 15 January 2025. 

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Applicants will be contacted as soon as possible after the deadline with the outcome. Applications received after the deadline will be considered as long as there is funding available.

For any queries regarding the access fund please contact

susannah.murray@libdems.org.uk

or:

Conference Access Fund (Susie Murray)
Liberal Democrats
5th Floor
1 Vincent Square
London SW1P 2PN

Donating to the Access Fund

Any member registering for conference will be asked as part of their registration whether they would like to make a contribution to the fund and can do this as in one go when paying for conference.

If you are unable to attend and would like to make a donation nonetheless you can do so here:

https://www.libdems.org.uk/conference/access-fund/donate

or by posting a cheque – details are given below.

Cheques should be made payable to “LIBERAL DEMOCRATS” - please mention code: CON S25 6430

Conference Access Fund
Liberal Democrats
5th Floor
1 Vincent Square
London SW1P 2PN

Any donations made to the Access Fund are ring-fenced for this purpose and any money not used will be carried over to the next conference.