Behind the Scenes of the Scottish Manual Handling Forum Annual Conference

Every successful conference relies on a huge amount of preparation behind the scenes. Since 2018, I’ve been supporting the Scottish Manual Handling Forum (SMHF) as they prepare for their Annual Conference taking place this year on Wednesday 20th and Thursday 21st May 2026 at the Golden Jubilee Conference Hotel in Clydebank, Glasgow.

The conference will be held at the Golden Jubilee, located on Beardmore Street (G81 4SA), a venue well known for hosting professional events and bringing together people from across Scotland. The event provides an important opportunity for professionals involved in manual handling, health and safety, and workplace wellbeing to share knowledge, research, and best practice.

One of the key tasks in 2026 has been supporting the transition of the organisation’s Chairperson, ensuring that information, processes, and communications continue seamlessly during the changeover. Maintaining continuity in leadership is important for any organisation, particularly when planning a national conference.

Preparing for the Conference

In the months leading up to the event, a lot of work goes on to make sure everything runs smoothly. I have been assisting the SMHF team with a number of tasks as part of the preparation process.

• Managing conference registration through Eventbrite - delegates and sponsors,

• Designing exhibition areas,

• Updating the SMHF website,

• Formatting the programme,

• Creating conference badges for delegates, speakers and faculty,

• Preparing sign-in and attendance reports,

• Designing and creating certificates that will be sent electronically.

These steps are vital to ensure that delegates can register easily, receive accurate information, and have a smooth experience when arriving at the event.

During the Event

When the conference takes place in May, the focus will shift from preparation to delivery. Registration systems, badges, and sign-in processes will help ensure that delegates can check in quickly and that attendance is recorded accurately.

Conferences like this bring together professionals who are passionate about improving workplace safety and manual handling practices. The discussions, presentations, and networking opportunities often lead to new ideas and collaborations that benefit organisations across Scotland.

After the Conference

The work doesn’t end when the conference closes. After the event, I will be reviewing the attendance records and confirming which delegates participated. This information is then used to issue certificates of attendance, which many professionals use as part of their continuing professional development (CPD).

Accurate reporting and certification are important for recognising the learning and engagement that happens during the conference.

Supporting SMHF Events

I have been supporting the Scottish Manual Handling Forum with their annual events since 2018, helping with the practical organisation and administration that keeps everything running smoothly. Being involved each year provides an opportunity to see how the event evolves and continues to bring value to its members and attendees.

It is always rewarding to contribute to an event that supports safer working practices and professional learning across Scotland.

If you've stumbled upon here by accident but this sounds a conference for you, please visit HERE to register.

Do need help with conference organising or require secretariat services? Get in touch for an informal chat to see where I can help you.

Kate

OfficePace Ltd

Conference & Business Management Services

📞 +44 07761 753632

✉️ hello@officepace.co.uk

🌐 www.officepace.co.uk

 Glasgow, Scotland