Navigating Change -the annual Local Public Services conference offers guidance through choppy waters

It's that time of year again - the annual Local Public Services Conference - and it's packed with guidance and support from key speakers such as Alastair Campbell, to guide us through the stormy times ahead.

Navigating Change, is the theme this year and focuses on exploring a new model of communications in local public services. Key speakers include Alastair Campbell who will draw on his considerable understanding of the modern media, Peter Bingle - Chairman of Bell Pottinger Public Affairs who has more than 26 years experience in public affairs, and Paul Mylrea, who is Head of press and media relations at the CIPR and President Elect of the CIPR.

The conference, which is in Brighton at the Thistle Brighton Hotel, from 20th - 22nd October, kicks off on Wednesday afternoon with a pre-registration from 2pm to 6pm in the hotel's conference foyer followed by a Welcome Reception with drinks and a guided tour at the Royal Pavillion.

The first full day of the conference will see Alastair Campbell who specialises in strategic communications. We'll be joined by Scott Chisholm who is one of the UK's leading media trainers working with Electric Airwaves - the company behind Nick Clegg's stunnding media performance during the election campaign debates.

In addition there are three master class sessions designed to discuss the key issues facing communications professionals and will include Navigating Change through partnerships partnerships and enhancing local democracy and citizenship.

And what better way to round off the evening than with a traditional fish and chip supper on Brighton Pier. But forget the tea - our modern touch involves Champagne! For those who enjoy the fun of the fair, there's access to the Pier's rides and entertainment.

The second day of the conference features key speaker Jonathan Males - the director of Performance 1 and a former Olympian who has been a consultant to a wide range of public and private sector organisations in the UK, US and and Australia. Assignments include a programme to fast track the next generation of sports scientists and coaches in preparation for the 2012 Olympics.

There are more master classes to choose from including social media - which will be held by Catherine Howe, Chief Executive of Public-I, a company that was set up to respond to the new opportunities the internet presented to local authorities for re-engaging with their citizens.

And what about a makeover? Igor Srzic Cartledge offers some top tips on personal styling that will get you out of a rut and onto the path of the perfect choice for a professional focus.

Then it's time to get your glad rags on for the most glittering night of the public sector communications calendar - it's the Excellence Awards Gala Dinner.

Held at The Grand, Brighton, it will be hosted by Robin Treacher, - former Chair of the CIPR Local Government Group and one of the most influential people in the PR industry. He will reveal all winners and present them with a locally hand crafted award, once you have enjoyed a locally sourced three-course dinner with the best of local entertainment.

There's still time to enter the awards so take a good look around your organisation to ensure you get your recognition for best practice in local public services.

If you book for the conference before the 31st July you can save up to £50, so download a brochure for full information and book today.