Where are meetings held?
Meetings are usually held in the Ridgmount Street offices (7 Ridgmount Street, London WC1E 7AE) but occasionally elsewhere. Please report to Reception on arrival.
What time do meetings start?
Members are asked to consult the CILIP Calendar about a week before the meeting to find out the start time.
What should I do when I get there?
Simply come in, take a seat in the observers seating area, and observe the proceedings. Observers may come and go as they please during the Open Session taking care not to make any unnecessary noise. Council meetings are formal affairs; therefore only the participants (Councillors, Presidential Team and Management Team) are permitted to contribute to the discussion.
What time do meetings end?
This varies depending on the amount of business, but typically any time between 3.30 and 5pm.
Will CILIP pay my costs?
Unfortunately CILIP is unable to pay any expenses but Members are welcome to use the Ewart Room to eat their lunches and the Members Information Centre.
What will I get out of attending a meeting?
You would hopefully gain a better understanding of the types of decisions CILIP Council makes, why it makes the decisions it does, and the processes involved in making those decisions. You could also view it as a networking opportunity, both with the Councillors and other observers (staff and members); and who knows, the experience could even encourage you to stand for Council yourself in the Annual Elections.
I have a disability - can I still attend?
Ridgmount Street meetings are held on the first floor accessible by a lift. Access to the building is by steps or ramp. Semi automatic doors service the main entrance. There is a stair lift for disabled users. We are an E, G, W, X venue (Artsline Access Codes - see the How to get to CILIP page for more info).
How will I follow proceedings?
The Governance Unit will provide Agendas with supporting papers for observers attending the meeting. If more observers turn up than there are copies available, please do share your copy with another observer. Alternatively you can print Agendas and supporting papers as well as decision sheets and minutes from the Council Meetings webpage.
I should like to attend a meeting. What should I do?
It would be helpful if you could register your interest in advance by
- deciding which meeting you would like to attend from the Council Meetings page
- going to the Calendar
- finding the relevant meeting
- clicking the Register Interest button
- completing and submitting your details