Scottish Politics Explained 2024

Scottish Politics Explained

COSLA, Edinburgh | 29 October 2024

 

The countdown to the 2026 Scottish election is on: who holds influence, how do you engage with them and how do you get your message into their manifesto pledges?

 

In the lead up to the election, and as we mark 25 years of the Scottish Parliament, now is the ideal time to learn about the processes, people and structures that matter. Holyrood’s annual Politics Explained event will provide you with a thorough understanding of all of this and more.

 

By attending, you can expect to learn:

 

·       About the structure and everyday workings of the Parliament;

·       How the Scottish Government runs and is held to account;

·       How to engage with politicians and their staff; and

·       How you might influence manifestos and policies ahead of 2026.

 

 

Scottish Politics Explained is particularly relevant to those working in:

 

·       Policy and/or public affairs;

·       External affairs and/or communications;

·       Public relations and/or campaigns.

 

Join us in October to learn from experts about the Scottish political system, and network with colleagues who are also seeking to engage with parliamentarians and influence policy.

 

All attendees will receive a copy of Holyrood’s 2025 Political Guide and have the chance to win a year’s subscription to the Holyrood Magazine.

  • Structure and composition
  • Committees and Cross-Party Groups
  • Procedures and rules
  • Devolved and reserved matters
  • Overview of an MSP’s role
  • Constituency and parliamentary obligations
  • Input into the legislative process
  • How to meet an MSP
  • Practical tips and advice

With the 2026 Scottish Parliamentary election fast approaching, learn how to:

  • Engage with MSPs and the legislative process
  • Effectively lobby within the parameters
  • How Bills are introduced
  • The stages of a Bill
  • When and how you can input into the legislative process
  • Who’s who in the Scottish Government 
  • Directorates and portfolios
  • Civil servants and ministers
  • The relationship with Parliament

Staffers are the backbone of any politician's office. As we approach the 2026 election, and parties begin to develop their manifestos, hear from experts about:

  • The different roles and how they work together
  • How best to interact with them and get your message across
Head of Office for Graham Leadbitter MP
Head of Policy
Head of Operations, Chief Executive Group
Senior Clerk, Legislation Team
Deputy Director for Cabinet, Parliament and Governance
Ben Macpherson
MSP for Edinburgh Northern and Leith
Katy_Clark_MSP
MSP for West Scotland
Head of Policy for Scotland
Director
MSP for West Scotland
Former First Minister of Scotland, 2000-2001
Henry McLeish is a Scottish politician, author and academic who served as First Minister of Scotland from 2000 to 2001.
Discounts
Discounted rates available

50% discount for students available using code UNI50

£195
Reduced Rate

Voluntary/charitable

With annual income of less than £1m

£195 + VAT

£245
Standard Rate

Public sector/voluntary/charitable

With annual income over £1m

£245 + VAT

£295
Private Sector Rate

Commercial e.g. plc, Ltd, LLP

£295 + VAT

    Event Details