If you’ve ever wondered how real change happens in Napo, the answer lies in one word: motions.
“Motions are how we set our priorities,” says Jeanne, Chair of Napo’s Steering Committee. “AGM is our supreme policymaking body. What’s passed there shapes what Napo does on your behalf for the year ahead.”
Jeanne is speaking as part of Napo’s push to encourage more members — especially newer ones — to get involved in AGM. And she wants to make one thing very clear: “You don’t need to be an expert. You just need to care about something enough to want it to be Napo policy.”
What Steering does
Steering Committee may work behind the scenes, but its role is vital. “We manage the order of business, make sure time is used well, and support members to take part confidently — all within the rules, known as standing orders.”
It’s not about bureaucracy for bureaucracy’s sake. “Those rules ensure fairness. Everyone gets a voice. And we’re here to help make sure no one’s put off by the process.”
Jeanne’s own role is to be the “front of house” at AGM, delivering decisions and keeping things running smoothly, backed up by her team on the timing table and the tireless conference secretary making sure nothing’s missed.
Writing a motion that stands out
For those thinking of submitting a motion, Jeanne breaks it down: “It starts with an idea — something that matters to you. That could be about pay, conditions, government policy, workload, social justice. Anything you think Napo should take a stance on.”
Once you’ve got that idea, you can submit a motion as an individual (with a seconder), through your branch, network, or elected committee. But the trick is writing it clearly.
Jeanne’s advice on writing a stellar motion
- Keep it concise — there’s a 200-word limit
- Be focused and purposeful
- Include actions: What do you want Napo to do?
- Add a timescale, if helpful (e.g., “Report to the NEC by September”)
“A good motion isn’t a speech,” she stresses. “Save your examples and passion for the podium. The motion itself should be easy to digest. Bullet points help.”
Speaking for or against a motion
If you’re planning to speak at AGM, preparation is key. “Some people are brilliant off the cuff, but most of us do better with notes. Write out your main points, rehearse them, and stick to your time — especially if you’re proposing. You get six minutes.”
Jeanne encourages everyone to give it a go: “Your voice matters. Whether you’re proposing a motion or just standing up to speak for or against one, you’re shaping our direction.”
Beyond pay and conditions
While motions on pay, workloads, and conditions are staples — and rightly so — Jeanne says AGM should also reflect Napo’s wider values. “We’ve always looked outward. Justice, fairness, and human rights are part of our DNA. That’s why it’s important to also bring motions that link us with the broader union movement and global issues.”
And what does she look forward to at AGM? “All of it. The debates, the new voices, the sense of shared purpose. It’s democracy in action and I love being part of it.”
Ready to submit your motion? Visit www.napo.org.uk/AGM for our handy guide to writing to motions and more information on submitting your motion.
