One of the great things about being a Labour Party member is the opportunity to represent the local branch as a delegate to regional and national conferences. This year, I was fortunate enough to be a delegate to the West Midlands Regional Conference, which took place at Warwick University. This was a completely new experience for me, and I had no idea what to expect.
On arrival, we were greeted by stalls from unions such as Unison and the GMB and parties such as the Co-operative. There was opportunity to chat and to network with colleagues from other parts of the region. The hall was packed, and there was a real buzz about the place; proof, I think, of the angry passion that the ConDem cuts have injected into Party members.
I was very eagerly anticipating Ed Milliband's opening speech; not since I heard John Smith speak in my first year of university have I had the opportunity to hear a party leader speak. He did not disappoint - he spoke with integrity and passion and all without notes for at least 25 minutes.
Other MPs spoke too - and Tom Watson had a standing ovation before he even arrived, and I was very excited to get the opportunity for a brief chat and a photo with him during one of the breaks.
It wasn't all photo opportunities and speeches though. If you are into politics, social policy and like a good debate then conference is a great day out. I attended two policy forums and put the world to rights (if only it were that simple!) with delegates from across the region in a group facilitated by Jack Dromey MP, shadow minister for Housing.
I left the conference feeling invigorated and inspired, particularly by Labour's 5 point plan for jobs:
A £2 billion tax on bank bonuses to fund 100,000 jobs for young people
Bringing forward long-term investment projects
Reversing January's damaging VAT rise
A one year cut in VAT to 5% on home improvements,
A one year national insurance tax break
When I joined the Labour Party I felt like I wanted to make a difference, and at the conference I really felt like I had the opportunity to influence policy and discuss my views with MPs - joining the Labour Party isn't just a paper exercise, but a chance to make your voice heard.
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