Rethinking Our Structure – Exploring the Future Together

BSL Version: https://vimeo.com/1166652197?fl=ip&fe=ec 

Following recent discussions with our region contacts and group rep, we are preparing for a full consultation morning to consider the future structure of ASLI.

This is not a proposal document. It is a conversation starter.

We will be exploring a series of deliberately provocative questions designed to challenge our assumptions and help us think clearly about what ASLI needs to be over the next decade.

1. “Scrap the Regions?”

-What if ASLI removed formal regional structures altogether?

-Training managed nationally by a coordinator

-Local gatherings supported by a social budget where there is appetite

-Regions able to request topics and host events, but without governance responsibilities

-Would this create greater consistency and reduce volunteer burden?

-Would we lose something vital in local representation and identity?

2. “Pay People”

-Should regional roles become paid positions?

-Formal Regional Officers with defined responsibilities

-Clear accountability and national coordination

-A structured network of officials representing their areas

-If the work matters, should it remain voluntary?

-What would this cost — financially and culturally?

3. “Regional Social Secretaries”

-Should regions shift from governance to support and community?

-Social secretaries organising networking and collegial events

-Training delivered nationally

-Would this better support members’ professional journeys?

-Would it weaken regional voice?

❓What We Really Need to Discuss

❓What problem are we trying to solve?

❓What must we protect at all costs?

This consultation is about listening, challenging assumptions and shaping a model that is sustainable, fair and forward-looking.

We encourage you to come ready to think boldly, speak honestly and engage constructively.