Frequently asked questions
Conference
Will the conference format be similar to previous ones?
The Conference Planning Team have carefully studied and listened to feedback from the conference hosted by Surrey Police in 2008 and those held previously by other forces. With this in mind, whilst some of the structure works well, other elements have not. Therefore, we will not be running breakout sessions with the dreaded flipcharts but will be arranging something far more dynamic which will be of greater benefit to delegates allowing them to interact more, with well-structured outcomes and next steps.
It is also planned that ASCCO members will hold their own meeting on Saturday afternoon as they did in Surrey.
Will the National Strategy feature on the agenda?
Yes, there will be a presentation on the National Strategy on Friday evening.
What time can I check-in and register?
A dedicated check-in and registration desk will operate from 14.00 - 17.00 on Friday. For those arriving on Saturday, a similar arrangement will apply.
What are the arrangements for checking out on Sunday and depositing luggage?
Thanks to a specially-negotiated deal with the hotel, you can leave any luggage and personal items in your room until 1.00pm and check out when you depart - unless you are taking advantage of the extra night offer. Click here for more on extending your stay in London.
Can partners attend the Gala Dinner, or other elements of SC2010?
Unfortunately no.
What are the timings of the Gala Dinner?
Please see our agenda page for further details.
What will the Gala Dinner consist of?
- Pre-dinner drinks reception including characturist
- Four course dinner with wine
- Entertainment including live music
- After dinner speaker
- Prize raffle
Will soft drinks and water be available on the tables for those who do not wish to have wine?
Yes. Jugs of water and fruit juices will be available.
What is the live entertainment?
David Lewis, probably the best and fastest caricturist in the business will entrall you with his quick fire sketches during the Gala Dinner drinks reception and will also be on hand during the first part of the dinner to capture your portrait. Strolling musicains will also entertain you throughout dinner as well as providing background music before things liven up after the raffle. We hope you will enjoy the entertainments package we have put together.
Please see our agenda page for further details.
What should I wear for the conference and Gala Dinner?
Smart casual wear may be worn during the conference and for the dinner, gentleman are asked to wear a business suit with shirt and tie and for the ladies, appropriate evening wear.
Where will I be seated for the Gala Dinner?
Tables will be mixed to encourage networking and sharing best practice.
Will there be time on Saturday to go sightseeing or shopping?
We have taken this into consideration, particularly as we'll be in the nation's capital but also because of feedback. We appreciate that many delegates may wish to explore parts of London or engage in some retail therapy so the programme on Saturday allows for a period of free time in the afternoon.
Will car parking be available at the hotel?
It's best to get to SC2010 by public transport. You'd be doing your bit for the environment and perhaps be less stressed from driving on arrival. If you do need to drive, particularly if travelling in a large group, then a very limited number of spaces are available on a pre-booked basis at extra cost. Please indicate on the booking form if you wish to reserve a space, but car spaces are very limited.
At the 2008 Conference, breakfast was served in one room leading to long queues. What arrangements have been made to ensure this doesn't happen again?
Breakfast will be served in the main conference room and two dining rooms to alleviate this problem. Should you decide not to partake of breakfast or are still feeling peckish at the first break, a selection of hot filled rolls will be served.
Booking
Can I book online?
Yes - SC2010 aims to be a hi-tech conference and that starts with your booking. However, you can also download a paper-based booking form, if you need it, perhaps for audit purposes. But the online form is the easiest and quickest.
Can I make a booking on behalf of other colleagues?
Yes. The booking form can accommodate multiple bookings for up to ten delegates. One person should be nominated to complete the form for all attendees to avoid duplication and multiple registrations.
Is there a deadline for booking?
What happens after I have returned the booking form?
A confirmation letter and remittance/invoice will be sent to you on receipt of your booking.
Can I make a last minute change or delegate substitution?
Any changes or substitutions will be considered but refunds cannot be given.
I wish to attend only part of the conference. Can I do this?
By all means - we have put together a number of delegate rate packages to give ultimate flexibility. View full details.