Held every two years, DM brings together members from all parts of the NUJ - whether seasoned delegates or first-time attendees. It’s a chance to talk about the big issues, shape our policies, and build the connections that make our union thrive. 

Our last DM, held in Blackpool in 2025, saw debate and heartening solidarity in the face of the numerous challenges affecting our members and journalists around the world. The busy agenda and activities reflected the scale and variety of the union’s work, demonstrating the power of member action and our collective campaigning. 

Our next DM will be held in Brighton in April 2027. To encourage wider participation, DM will officially open on Monday 19 April with online events held that week, accessible to all members. The in-person conference for elected delegates and observers will then be held from the afternoon of Friday 23 April to Sunday 25 April.  

How does it work? 

The NUJ is a democratic organisation. That means our members have a say in shaping our policies, priorities and campaigns. 

DM is our main policy-making body. Delegates debate motions - proposals about what the NUJ should do or advocate for. When a motion is passed, it becomes NUJ policy. 

Our branches play a crucial role in making DM a success, canvassing members’ opinions, submitting motions, and nominating delegates. Branches are encouraged to actively participate in the following ways: 

  1. Put DM 2027 on the agenda at your branch meetings or hold special meetings focused on DM preparations that are open to all your members.
  2. Nominate members of your branch to NUJ councils and DM-elected committees. 
  3. Consider submitting a motion on an issue that matters to your members. 
  4. Nominate a delegate or delegates to represent your branch, share the views of your members and vote on their behalf. 
  5. Nominate an observer who will attend and learn more about how DM works. 
  6. Review the draft agenda once published and consider whether to propose amendments to any motions. 

At DM branch delegates debate a range of motions. They can speak for or against a motion, suggesting amendments, asking questions, and voting. 

How can I get involved? 

As an NUJ member, you have a voice in this process. 

You can: 

  • Attend your branch meetings.
  • Help decide what your branch wants the union to campaign on.
  • Contribute to discussions and motions.
  • Put yourself forward as a delegate to speak for your branch.
I’m new to the NUJ - where do I start? 

A good place to start is your local branch. Go along to a branch meeting, listen to what members are discussing and ask questions. You can also speak to your branch representative about getting more involved. If you’re unsure who to speak to, log in to the NUJ website and visit our Branch Contacts page. 

Key dates 
  • 18 November 2026: deadline to submit motions and nominations to NUJ councils and DM-elected committees. 
  • 1 December 2026: deadline to nominate DM delegates. 
  • 15 January 2027: publication of preliminary DM agenda, featuring all submitted motions. 
  • 26 February 2027: deadline to submit amendments to motions, confirmation of motions and statements from those standing for election. 
  • 19 March 2027: publication of final DM agenda and report. 
Look back at our 2025 Delegate Meeting  

Read the DM 2025 final Agenda to see what motions were put forward. 

Read the DM 2025 resolutions to see what motions were agreed and became policy. 

Read the Report to DM 2025 to learn more about the union's work.