The CSP is currently in the process of undertaking a review of the Annual Representatives Conference (ARC) to determine if it remains fit for purpose and serves the needs of the organisation.

As a member of the MACP Executive Committee, I was asked to represent the Professional Networks on the review panel. The review had a wide scope to look at all aspects of the Conference with any changes requiring agreement by the CSP Council and then ratification at ARC 2018.

Many of the proposed changes relate to the format of the Conference with an aim of improving engagement and ensuring that matters and topics considered important by CSP members can be discussed. It was also apparent during the review that the communication around ARC with the various Networks was inconsistent at best, with notably far less communication with the Professional Networks than other representative groups.

The Professional Networks collectively have 74 places for representatives at ARC. Last year only 21 of these places were taken. Additionally, each Professional Network has the opportunity to submit 3 motions for consideration by the ARC Agenda Committee. As far as I can remember, during my time in the MACP, we have only submitted 1 motion. Please take some time to review the information on ARC on the CSP website, via this link:

If you have any ideas or topics that you feel should be discussed at ARC or if you would be interested in attending ARC to represent the views of the MACP, please submit either a proposal with your thoughts and ideas or an expression of interest to Laura Eccott, MACP Secretary by February 26th. The closing date for the submission of motions is March 4th. Places at ARC, including travel, are funded by the CSP.

Claire Small, FMACP
Treasurer, MACP