Public Sector Forum opportunity

Backed by Cost Sector Catering, the forum provides caterers working in the public sector with a dedicated conference and exhibition, the chance to network with colleagues in other sectors plus the possibilities of joint action and initiatives on matters of common concern. But because the current economic climate is putting Government and local authority budgets under increasing pressure the cost of conference packages is being subsidised by up to £100 a person. If you work in catering in the local authority, healthcare, education, social care & care homes, HM Prisons and Armed Forces sectors, or for a contractor, then this year's Public Sector Forum could be the event for you. Following the success of last year's event, the 2009 conference taking place at Hinckley Island Hotel, Leicester will provide an opportunity for all sectors that rely on the public purse to discuss issues that affect them collectively. The aim is to help delegates find a common basis on which they can seek to work together more effectively, initiate change and build a foundation for future development. The programme has been designed to allow delegates to tailor their day to suit their own needs from a combination of presentations, panel discussions and workstreams with the added benefit of the Public Sector Catering Exhibition which will feature a number of suppliers to the industry displaying a range of innovative products and services to stimulate new ideas and opportunities. The event starts on Monday afternoon, November 30, when Brian Tapping of OGC Buying Solutions conducts a workshop of collaborative purchasing. On December 1, the main day of the forum, presentations include 'Bringing The High Street To Your Table' by consultant Jonathan Doughty of Coverpoint, 'Helping You Achieve Affordable Sustainability' by Dominic Pattinson of Defra and a look at waste management by Louise McGregor of Waste Resources Action Programme (WRAP). The afternoon session offers delegates three different workstreams; one offers a series of round-table discussions on purchasing, cutting waste and sustainability, another will provide a series of presentations on school nutrition standards, developing a Halal strategy, the new Healthier Food Mark plus a special talk from Professor Hugh Pennington, author of the Pennington Report into food safety and risk management. The third stream covers presentations on from contract caterers on their experiences in promoting sustainability, developing CSR strategies and reducing costs. To take advantage of the new reduced rates, please call the booking centre now on 0845 108 5504. Quote code PSF100 and the first 100 places booked will receive the subsidised rates. For more information visit: www.publicsectorforum.co.uk