SOLAR Annual Conference
“I was absolutely delighted to host the 2023 Conference in Glasgow after a hiatus of 3 years. I was concerned that after such a long break delegates and sponsors may no longer be interested in the Conference; but it was quite the reverse with huge interest, and great attendance, from both delegates and sponsors. We received fantastic feedback from attendees in relation to the event; everyone was delighted to meet again in person seeing people that they may not have seen “in real life” for many years. The atmosphere was incredibly positive and uplifting.
There were a number of highlights of the conference: from Lynda Towers of Morton Fraser giving a fascinating talk on Scotland’s constitutional future; Cllr Susan Aitken, the Leader of Glasgow City Council giving a very open and honest overview of her role; and Jackie Weaver of Cheshire Association of Local Councils who explained her role and gave us insight into her experiences of trending no 1 on Twitter! Jackie was also incredibly patient posing for many, many selfies!
Other excellent speakers covered a very wide range of topics including FOISA, procurement, employment law, finance, licensing, planning to name but a few. As well as the CPD and networking we also raised £1600 for two very deserving charities, namely the Lord Provost’s Fund for Vulnerable Citizens and War Child.”
Elaine Galletly, SOLAR President 2022-2023
“It was a real pleasure to host the SOLAR Annual Conference at the Beach Ballroom in Aberdeen in 2017. As usual, the event was well attended by a variety of delegates and sponsors from across Scotland and the British Isles working both in the public and private sectors. Delegates heard about the key changes being proposed to local government as well as hearing examples of how local authorities are seeking to address the challenge of a growing demand for services against continuous budget reductions. Speakers also provided law updates in areas such as employment law, licensing and planning. In addition to recording CPD and having some fun along the way, SOLAR raised £1,500 for Kayleigh’s Wee Stars and the British Heart Foundation.”
Fraser Bell, SOLAR President 2016-2017