Leeds’ conferencing bureau publishes A-Z guide to planning events as restrictions relax

Conference Leeds, the conferencing bureau for the city of Leeds, is supporting organisers who are looking to plan their next in-person event, with the launch of its A-Z guide, ahead of the resumption of conferencing and events from the 17th May.

Following yesterday’s government announcement that conferences and events can once again take place, organisers will be expected to review their planning processes and to ensure they are able to identify suitable venues which are safe and secure, as well as being accessible and enjoyable for delegates.

Conference Leeds’ A-Z guide has been carefully considered to cover all aspects of event planning and attendance, with the aim of ensuring that businesses and their staff can benefit from a growing events programme while remaining safe and healthy every step of the way.

From ‘Arriving’ at the city, Leeds’ great transport links mean that the city is as easily accessible by rail as it is by road, thanks to its proximity to the M1 and M62. Whether delegates are arriving at the train station or planning to park their car, Conference Leeds’ A-Z guide has the answers to all travel-related questions.

‘Catering’ may look a little different in the short-term, but that doesn’t mean it needs to be any less enjoyable. Many of the city’s venues have adapted their offer to include alternative food options. Whilst there may no longer be buffets, the catering options will become more streamlined in order to reflect the government guidelines. For example, one of Leeds’ most popular venues, Horizon, offers Perfect Yorkshire Treat VIP picnic menu, which includes fully compostable containers with wooden cutlery and recyclable napkins, offering a variety of options which can be adapted to cater for all dietary requirements. Not only does this enable minimal contact service, but it also avoids overcrowding with staggered lunch times, and a table-by-table option for larger events.

As we settle into the new normal, Conference Leeds anticipates that ‘Familiarisation Visits’ will become an even more fundamental part of the planning process. In keeping with government guidelines, venues are now able to show small groups of up to 30 people around to view the facilities and plan future events. What’s more, the team at Conference Leeds are the city experts to help conference and event organisers navigate their way.

In addition to this 45 venues within the city are also proud to state that they are accredited with Visit Britain’s ‘We’re Good To Go’, the UK’s official quality mark that the venue has read, adhered and implemented guidance from the government and Public Health England and has a Covid-19 risk assessment in place.

Claire Heap, Head of Conference Leeds, commented: “We’re absolutely elated to be welcoming conferences and events back to Leeds from the 17th May. The updated guidelines have come at a really exciting time for the city, with many updates and refurbishments having taken place since March last year. We understand that both organisers and delegates may feel cautious about their next event, which is where we hope that our A-Z guide will be able provide answers to many potential questions, as well as offer reassurance in visiting the great variety of venues that we have here in the city, who are all ready and raring to welcome people back once again.”

Whether delegates are already familiar with Leeds or are attending a meeting or event here for the first time, Conference Leeds’ handy guide covers everything organisers and delegates need to know about hosting or attending conferences with confidence.

To read the full guide, please visit: www.conferenceleeds.co.uk/a-z-guide-of-events-in-leeds