22 women inspired in Scotland

12.35.00am GMT Fri 4th Nov 2005

An Inspiration and Training Day aimed at encouraging more women to come forward and participate within the Liberal Democrats was held on Sunday 30th October. Organised jointly by the Gender Balance Task Force and Scottish Women Liberal Democrats, 22 participants joined Jo Swinson MP at the College Club in the University of Glasgow.

Participants were given a whistle-stop tour of the Party, outlining the structures and ways to get more involved in all aspects of the work of the Party. Full details of how to become a candidate, and what is required for candidacy were given. The training followed a mailing by Jo Swinson to all women members in the Scottish Party, to which an excellent response was received. Jo commented 'I'm passionate about the need to increase the number of women coming forward to participate at all levels and in all aspects of the Party's work. The work of the Gender Balance Task Force is rightly focused on Parliamentary candidacy, but the way to promote candidacy and increase the number of women coming forward is by explaining and encouraging - and in some cases simply asking what they would like to achieve. Many women replied to my mailing who were not able to attend the training day - we will be keeping in touch with them and are delighted at the new network we are building in Scotland, in conjunction with SWLD, and are following up with Personal Development Plans those who did attend. I'm really pleased to have found candidates for Parliamentary and local elections, potential agents and women who would like to be more involved in policy development - I am sure that we will continue to find more activists through bringing information and training to their doorstep.'

The training day is the first in a series of regional events - it is hoped that all women members will have the opportunity to attend a similar day close to their home within the next six months.

For more information about the work of the Gender Balance Task Force please contact Francesca Marritt, e.mail gbtf@libdems.org.uk or tel 07870 171708.