The Worcestershire County Labour Party Women’s Forum (Women Of Worcestershire held a successful seminar for women members on Saturday 28 February.

Neena Gill, MEP and Claire Edwards, Prospective MEP joined WOW at the Guild Hall in Worcester to outline where EU policy is making a difference to our lives in the UK.   Claire spoke on policy regarding sustainable energy and the development of green energy, as well as on the funding going into waste recycling.  The demographic trends in Europe is also influencing policy with new technologies being developed to serve an aging population.   EU money is also made available to fund skills training and youth apprenticeships.

Neena spoke on how the focus within Europe was shifting from global warming to the economy, where the current problems were affecting all countries.   The EU is hopeful that it can work with the new US president to make policy decisions stronger.

On international issues it was felt that the US now sees the EU as natural allies.   Neena pointed out that the EU is the largest donor of aid to Gaza and sees a solution of working towards two independent states to resolve the conflict in this part of the Middle East.

It was felt that there continued to be a negative press in the UK concerning the EU.   But the coming elections are important as the largest group in the EU parliament is now formed by the centre right parties.

Following lively debate with the speakers, it is hoped to follow up this successful seminar with future events for women members.

The Labour Government has made great strides in assisting women to lead full lives, and has recognised women's contribution to society as mothers, carers and workers. 

The majority of beneficiaries from the introduction of the national minimum wage were women, and the introduction of flexible working rights is enabling many women (and men) to achieve a successful work/life balance.

Worcester CLP's Women’s Officer, Jane Flynn, would also like to see women Labour Party members being enabled to play a role within the local party. 

Jane is making personal contact with women members, aiming to identify activities they would like within the constituency, and to support them to become actively involved in the Party’s activities. 

Worcester CLP also wants to assist and encourage women members to stand for public office as a member of the Council. We are interested in providing training and support for women to achieve this aim.

For more details, contact Jane on 01905 420305.