WELCOME
We are all eagerly awaiting our 2024 convention! No doubt this year’s
convention with the theme “Declare the Good News!” will prove to be another
milestone in our theocratic calendar. To assist you in your plans to attend all
three days we have supplied the following information. Simply click on the links
above to access the information required.
TRANSPORT LINKS
The Newcastle Utilita Arena is easily accessible via road or bus. Central Station with its Metro link is less than half a
mile walk. The following links will allow you to enter your postcode to locate directions from your home to the arena
via road, Metro, bus or train:
moovitapp.com/index/en-gb/public_transportation-Utilita_Arena-North_East-site_8802011-2104
www.utilitaarena.co.uk/plan-your-visit/getting-to-the-venue
A clean air zone is now in place in part of Newcastle and Gateshead. You can find out more information and which
vehicle it applies to at the following link:
https://www.breathe-cleanair.com
"Please Note: The Tyne Bridge is currently undergoing major restoration work resulting in lane closures. This will
affect the flow of traffic into and out of Newcastle. Please allow for this when planning your journey over the course
of the convention.
Up-to-date information can be found at:
https://tynebridge.org/travel-advice
PARKING
Onsite parking is limited to ticket holders only. Applications must be made via the congregation secretary. May we request
that delegates refrain from parking in nearby streets even if allowed to do so as this can restrict customer parking for local
businesses. The simplified map (not to scale) here shows the location of the nearest Public Car Parks, as well as the
entrance for Arena Parking via Dunn St.
There are several large public car parks within easy reach of the arena. Stephenson Quarter (Forth Banks, NE1 3PH) is a 5-
minute walk away. Parking for up to 12 hours costs £6.00.
Times Square car park (NE1 4AD) is a 3-minute walk from the convention venue. The tariff for 9 hours is £7.50.
For further alternatives, you may find the following link useful. www.parkopedia.com
SECURITY & SAFETY
Doors will open at 8.00am for elderly and infirm ones and 8.15am for everyone else. As in previous years bags will be searched prior to
entering the Arena. Your patience and cooperation is very much appreciated. All bags and other portable items must be labelled to
include:
Name, Congregation and Contact Number.
Wearing your lapel badge at all times will greatly assist the attendants and help to identify non-Witnesses who may need additional
help. Lapel badges must be obtained through your congregation as they will not be be issued at the convention. If you have young
children please ensure your contact details are included on the reverse side of their lapel badge. Additionally it will greatly help the
attendants if you take a photograph of your child each day in the event your child goes missing.
Please do not bring any sharp items such as knives, including butter knives* and pen knives, any glass item or metal flasks to the
arena. Try and keep your bags close to hand at all times and if possible under your seat when not in use to avoid any possible trip
hazard.
An Arena safety announcement will be made at the beginning of each day. Please pay close attention to it so as to understand what
you may need to do in the event of an emergency evacuation. In the unlikely event an evacuation becomes necessary, please follow the
instructions from the attendants and look out for any additional information on your Congregation / Field Service Group Whatsapp, if
you have access to one. Please feel free to report any matter you feel uneasy about to any of the attendants present.
*Butter knives or any other metal objects would be identified by the EVOLV screening units and may delay your entrance into the arena.
FACILITIES
Pram Park
For safety reasons baby strollers and prams are not permitted in the main seating area. Parents may leave these in the designated
Pram Park located in the main entrance foyer. Parents may however bring baby carrier seats if they wish. As you can appreciate
this department can be very busy at peak times, so your patience is greatly appreciated.
Please note; Parents are encouraged to check their prams and pushchairs for valuable items such as phones, tablets or wallets
and any essential care items for their children BEFORE leaving their prams / pushchairs for storage.
Mothers and Babies
A section has been set aside for parents with infant children to provide a facility for feeding and or / changing, which can be found
to the right of the platform. Room in this area is limited, so we kindly ask that once your child’s needs have been cared for, you
return to the main auditorium to allow room for other parents.
Please note that parents should bring their own supply of baby food, nappies, medication and other supplies that may be needed.
No provision will be made for these items in the mothers and babies’ room. Whilst microwaves and kettles will be available, the
use of these will not be supervised by volunteers. Extra planning may be required to ensure the associated risks are minimised.
Prams or pushchairs are not permitted in the mothers and babies’ room. They can however be left at the Lost and Found
department which is located at the end of the righthand corridor facing the platform. The mothers and babies’ room is just a few
metres further on.
Food and Beverages
Delegates can make use of the various food and beverage outlets in the main foyer as well as bring their own packed lunches. As
a reminder, any sharp items such as knives (including butter knives and pen knives) as well as any glass items and metal flasks
are not permitted in the arena**. Alcoholic beverages of any kind are not to be brought to the convention site. A good range of hot
and cold food is available, however vendors have been asked to close approximately 10mins before the sessions begin to allow
everyone to return to their seats in readiness for the opening musical prelude. Delegates are invited to place any waste in the bins
provided or take it home with them. See arena food tariffs here.
*Butter knives or any other metal objects would be identified by the EVOLV screening units and may delay your entrance into the arena.
First Aid
The First Aid department is located in the main foyer. There are also First Aid stations in the main auditorium. Please remember
this department can only assist with first aid and emergency situations and is not authorised to dispense prescribed medication.
Delegates who take prescribed medication are advised to bring it with them.
Please note: We are not able to provide special facilities such as quiet rooms for those with special needs. If you have serious
health issues and are concerned about how you will cope at the convention please contact your local elders first.
Cloakroom and Lost and Found
Lost children are to be reported immediately to the nearest available attendant. If you are concerned that your child may have
gone missing please alert an attendant immediately and have identification details including a recent photograph ready to help
identify your child.
The lost and found department is available for delegates who have lost items or who wish to hand in items that have been found.
Delegates are encouraged to pay particular attention at the end of sessions to ensure all their property is accounted for and taken
home.
PLEASE NOTE: THERE ARE NO STORAGE FACILITIES FOR SUITCASES PROVIDED AT THIS ASSEMBLY. SUITCASES WILL NOT BE
PERMITTED IN THE ARENA BUILDING.
Baptism
May we ask all baptism candidates to report to the Baptism desk on Friday morning. The attendants will direct you to the reserved
seating area on Saturday morning towards the front of the platform on the right hand side. Please bring a modest bathing suit. T-
shirts with logos or slogans would not be appropriate. Changing rooms are provided for candidates behind the platform area.
Assistance will be available for any requiring help but if you have any particular needs or concerns, please let your congregation
secretary know before reporting to the baptism desk on Friday to ensure your needs are properly accommodated.
ELDERLY & INFIRM
It is heartwarming to see so many of our dear brothers and sisters make every effort to
attend the convention despite challenging health issues. The following arrangements
have been put in place to ensure that our elderly and infirm brothers and sisters receive
as much care as we are able to provide.
Delegate Assist
Arrangements will be in place to assist any with mobility issues make their way safely
from the coach drop off points to the main arena itself. This will either be by means of a
wheelchair or assisted walking where appropriate.
Elderly and Infirm Seating
A section of seating will be reserved to accommodate elderly and infirm brothers and
sisters over the age of 65, however marriage mates who are younger, are welcome to sit
with their partners. This section will be serviced by brothers and sisters ready to offer
assistance as and when required. Should we enjoy warmer temperatures than usual cold
drinks will also be on hand.
Assistance for the hard of hearing
A deaf loop system will be in place to help those with hearing problems. The attendants
will direct you to the area where the system is operating. Additionally the program will be
transmitted on 87.7 MHz FM for any wishing to use headphones.
Wheelchair Users
Spaces for wheelchairs will be located towards the rear of the ground floor seating area.
Along with each wheelchair an additional chair will be placed to allow for a carer.
Due to limited space, all wheelchair spaces are required to have a corresponding ticket.
If you require a wheelchair space please see your congregation secretary as soon as
possible. We will not be in a position to issue tickets at the arena.
© Newcastle Convention 2024
August 2 - August 4, 2024
INFORMATION & VOLUNTEERS
If you would like to volunteer during the Convention, please approach the Information and Volunteer desk located in the foyer. Please
note that the department will have to contact one of your Elders before assigning you to a department.
Alternatively you can contact your congregation secretary during the months leading up to the convention. In this way departments
will be be better prepared to make full use of your kind assistance.
The desk is also available to provide directions to local amenities such as taxi firms, hotels, car parks and restaurants.
Please Note: Any volunteering to assist in the Cleaning department will need to watch a training safety video prior to filling in the
application form. Details of the form can be obtained from the congregation secretary and the training video can be found by clicking
on the link below.
CONVENTION REMINDERS VIDEO
We trust the above information will provide you with all you need to prepare for an
enjoyable 3 day convention in August. May we also encourage you along with your
family, to review the “Convention Reminders” video via JW.ORG or click on the link
below.
https://www.jw.org/finder?srcid=share&wtlocale=E&lank=pub-jwbkm_201504_1_VIDEO
WELCOME
We are all eagerly awaiting our 2024 convention! No doubt this year’s
convention with the theme “Declare the Good News!” will prove to be another
milestone in our theocratic calendar. To assist you in your plans to attend all
three days we have supplied the following information. Simply click on the links
above to access the information required.
TRANSPORT LINKS
PARKING
Onsite parking is limited to ticket holders only. Applications must be made via the congregation secretary. May we
request that delegates refrain from parking in nearby streets even if allowed to do so as this can restrict customer
parking for local businesses. The simplified map (not to scale) here shows the location of the nearest Public Car
Parks, as well as the entrance for Arena Parking via Dunn St.
There are several large public car parks within easy reach of the arena. Stephenson Quarter (Forth Banks, NE1
3PH) is a 5-minute walk away. Parking for up to 12 hours costs £6.00.
Times Square car park (NE1 4AD) is a 3-minute walk from the convention venue. The tariff for 9 hours is £7.50.
For further alternatives, you may find the following link useful. www.parkopedia.com
SECURITY & SAFETY
Doors will open at 8.00am for elderly and infirm ones and 8.15am for everyone else. As in previous years bags will be
searched prior to entering the Arena. Your patience and cooperation is very much appreciated. All bags and other portable
items must be labelled to include:
Name, Congregation and Contact Number.
Wearing your lapel badge at all times will greatly assist the attendants and help to identify non-Witnesses who may need
additional help. Lapel badges must be obtained through your congregation as they will not be be issued at the convention.
If you have young children please ensure your contact details are included on the reverse side of their lapel badge.
Additionally it will greatly help the attendants if you take a photograph of your child each day in the event your child goes
missing.
Please do not bring any sharp items such as knives, including butter knives* and pen knives, any glass item or metal flasks
to the arena. Try and keep your bags close to hand at all times and if possible under your seat when not in use to avoid
any possible trip hazard.
An Arena safety announcement will be made at the beginning of each day. Please pay close attention to it so as to
understand what you may need to do in the event of an emergency evacuation. In the unlikely event an evacuation
becomes necessary, please follow the instructions from the attendants and look out for any additional information on your
Congregation / Field Service Group Whatsapp, if you have access to one.
Please feel free to report any matter you feel uneasy about to any of the attendants present.
*Butter knives or any other metal objects would be identified by the EVOLV screening units and may delay your entrance into the arena.
FACILITIES
Pram Park
For safety reasons baby strollers and prams are not permitted in the main seating area. Parents may leave
these in the designated Pram Park located in the main entrance foyer. Parents may however bring baby
carrier seats if they wish. As you can appreciate this department can be very busy at peak times, so your
patience is greatly appreciated.
Please note; Parents are encouraged to check their prams and pushchairs for valuable items such as
phones, tablets or wallets and any essential care items for their children BEFORE leaving their prams /
pushchairs for storage.
Mothers and Babies
A section has been set aside for parents with infant children to provide a facility for feeding and or /
changing, which can be found to the right of the platform. Room in this area is limited, so we kindly ask that
once your child’s needs have been cared for, you return to the main auditorium to allow room for other
parents.
Please note that parents should bring their own supply of baby food, nappies, medication and other
supplies that may be needed. No provision will be made for these items in the mothers and babies’ room.
Whilst microwaves and kettles will be available, the use of these will not be supervised by volunteers. Extra
planning may be required to ensure the associated risks are minimised.
Prams or pushchairs are not permitted in the mothers and babies’ room. They can however be left at the
Lost and Found department which is located at the end of the righthand corridor facing the platform. The
mothers and babies’ room is just a few metres further on.
Food and Beverages
Delegates can make use of the various food and beverage outlets in the main foyer as well as bring their
own packed lunches. As a reminder, any sharp items such as knives (including butter knives and pen
knives) as well as any glass items and metal flasks are not permitted in the arena**. Alcoholic beverages of
any kind are not to be brought to the convention site. A good range of hot and cold food is available,
however vendors have been asked to close approximately 10mins before the sessions begin to allow
everyone to return to their seats in readiness for the opening musical prelude. Delegates are invited to
place any waste in the bins provided or take it home with them. See arena food tariffs here.
*Butter knives or any other metal objects would be identified by the EVOLV screening units and may delay your entrance into the
arena.
First Aid
The First Aid department is located in the main foyer. There are also First Aid stations in the main
auditorium. Please remember this department can only assist with first aid and emergency situations and
is not authorised to dispense prescribed medication. Delegates who take prescribed medication are
advised to bring it with them.
Please note: We are not able to provide special facilities such as quiet rooms for those with special needs.
If you have serious health issues and are concerned about how you will cope at the convention please
contact your local elders first.
Cloakroom and Lost and Found
Lost children are to be reported immediately to the nearest available attendant. If you are concerned that
your child may have gone missing please alert an attendant immediately and have identification details
including a recent photograph ready to help identify your child.
The lost and found department is available for delegates who have lost items or who wish to hand in items
that have been found. Delegates are encouraged to pay particular attention at the end of sessions to
ensure all their property is accounted for and taken home.
PLEASE NOTE: THERE ARE NO STORAGE FACILITIES FOR SUITCASES PROVIDED AT THIS ASSEMBLY.
SUITCASES WILL NOT BE PERMITTED IN THE ARENA BUILDING.
Baptism
May we ask all baptism candidates to report to the Baptism desk on Friday morning. The attendants will
direct you to the reserved seating area on Saturday morning towards the front of the platform on the right
hand side. Please bring a modest bathing suit. T-shirts with logos or slogans would not be appropriate.
Changing rooms are provided for candidates behind the platform area. Assistance will be available for any
requiring help but if you have any particular needs or concerns, please let your congregation secretary know
before reporting to the baptism desk on Friday to ensure your needs are properly accommodated.
ELDERLY & INFIRM
It is heartwarming to see so many of our dear brothers and sisters make every effort to
attend the convention despite challenging health issues. The following arrangements
have been put in place to ensure that our elderly and infirm brothers and sisters receive
as much care as we are able to provide.
Delegate Assist
Arrangements will be in place to assist any with mobility issues make their way safely
from the coach drop off points to the main arena itself. This will either be by means of a
wheelchair or assisted walking where appropriate.
Elderly and Infirm Seating
A section of seating will be reserved to accommodate elderly and infirm brothers and
sisters over the age of 65, however marriage mates who are younger, are welcome to sit
with their partners. This section will be serviced by brothers and sisters ready to offer
assistance as and when required. Should we enjoy warmer temperatures than usual cold
drinks will also be on hand.
Assistance for the hard of hearing
A deaf loop system will be in place to help those with hearing problems. The attendants
will direct you to the area where the system is operating. Additionally the program will be
transmitted on 87.7 MHz FM for any wishing to use headphones.
Wheelchair Users
Spaces for wheelchairs will be located towards the rear of the ground floor seating area.
Along with each wheelchair an additional chair will be placed to allow for a carer.
Due to limited space, all wheelchair spaces are required to have a corresponding ticket.
If you require a wheelchair space please see your congregation secretary as soon as
possible. We will not be in a position to issue tickets at the arena.
The Newcastle Utilita Arena is easily accessible via road or bus. Central Station with its Metro link is
less than half a mile walk. The following links will allow you to enter your postcode to locate
directions from your home to the arena via road, Metro, bus or train:
moovitapp.com/index/en-gb/public_transportation-Utilita_Arena-North_East-site_8802011-2104
www.utilitaarena.co.uk/plan-your-visit/getting-to-the-venue
A clean air zone is now in place in part of Newcastle and Gateshead. You can find out more
information and which vehicle it applies to at the following link:
https://www.breathe-cleanair.com
INFORMATION & VOLUNTEERS
If you would like to volunteer during the Convention, please approach the Information and Volunteer desk
located in the foyer. Please note that the department will have to contact one of your Elders before assigning
you to a department.
Alternatively you can contact your congregation secretary during the months leading up to the convention. In
this way departments will be be better prepared to make full use of your kind assistance.
The desk is also available to provide directions to local amenities such as taxi firms, hotels, car parks and
restaurants.
Please Note: Any volunteering to assist in the Cleaning department will need to watch a training safety video
prior to filling in the application form. Details of the form can be obtained from the congregation secretary and
the training video can be found by clicking on the link below.
CONVENTION REMINDERS VIDEO
We trust the above information will provide you with all you need to prepare for an
enjoyable 3 day convention in August. May we also encourage you along with your
family, to review the “Convention Reminders” video via JW.ORG or click on the link
below.
https://www.jw.org/finder?srcid=share&wtlocale=E&lank=pub-jwbkm_201504_1_VIDEO
© Newcastle Convention 2024
August 2 - August 4, 2024
WELCOME
We are all eagerly awaiting our 2024 convention! No doubt this year’s
convention with the theme “Declare the Good News!” will prove to be another
milestone in our theocratic calendar. To assist you in your plans to attend all
three days we have supplied the following information. Simply click on the links
above to access the information required.
TRANSPORT LINKS
PARKING
Onsite parking is limited to ticket holders only. Applications must be made
via the congregation secretary. May we request that delegates refrain from
parking in nearby streets even if allowed to do so as this can restrict
customer parking for local businesses. The simplified map (not to scale)
here shows the location of the nearest Public Car Parks, as well as the
entrance for Arena Parking via Dunn St.
There are several large public car parks within easy reach of the arena.
Stephenson Quarter (Forth Banks, NE1 3PH) is a 5-minute walk away.
Parking for up to 12 hours costs £6.00.
Times Square car park (NE1 4AD) is a 3-minute walk from the convention
venue. The tariff for 9 hours is £7.50.
For further alternatives, you may find the following link useful.
www.parkopedia.com
SECURITY & SAFETY
Doors will open at 8.00am for elderly and infirm ones and 8.15am for everyone
else. As in previous years bags will be searched prior to entering the Arena. Your
patience and cooperation is very much appreciated. All bags and other portable
items must be labelled to include:
Name, Congregation and Contact Number.
Wearing your lapel badge at all times will greatly assist the attendants and help to
identify non-Witnesses who may need additional help. Lapel badges must be
obtained through your congregation as they will not be be issued at the convention.
If you have young children please ensure your contact details are included on the
reverse side of their lapel badge. Additionally it will greatly help the attendants if
you take a photograph of your child each day in the event your child goes missing.
Please do not bring any sharp items such as knives, including butter knives* and
pen knives, any glass item or metal flasks to the arena. Try and keep your bags
close to hand at all times and if possible under your seat when not in use to avoid
any possible trip hazard.
An Arena safety announcement will be made at the beginning of each day. Please
pay close attention to it so as to understand what you may need to do in the event
of an emergency evacuation. In the unlikely event an evacuation becomes
necessary, please follow the instructions from the attendants and look out for any
additional information on your Congregation / Field Service Group Whatsapp, if you
have access to one.
Please feel free to report any matter you feel uneasy about to any of the attendants
present.
FACILITIES
Pram Park
For safety reasons baby strollers and prams are not permitted in the main
seating area. Parents may leave these in the designated Pram Park located
in the main entrance foyer. Parents may however bring baby carrier seats if
they wish. As you can appreciate this department can be very busy at peak
times, so your patience is greatly appreciated.
Please note; Parents are encouraged to check their prams and pushchairs
for valuable items such as phones, tablets or wallets and any essential care
items for their children BEFORE leaving their prams / pushchairs for
storage.
Mothers and Babies
A section has been set aside for parents with infant children to provide a
facility for feeding and or / changing, which can be found to the right of the
platform. Room in this area is limited, so we kindly ask that once your child’s
needs have been cared for, you return to the main auditorium to allow room
for other parents.
Please note that parents should bring their own supply of baby food,
nappies, medication and other supplies that may be needed. No provision
will be made for these items in the mothers and babies’ room. Whilst
microwaves and kettles will be available, the use of these will not be
supervised by volunteers. Extra planning may be required to ensure the
associated risks are minimised.
Prams or pushchairs are not permitted in the mothers and babies’ room.
They can however be left at the Lost and Found department which is
located at the end of the righthand corridor facing the platform. The
mothers and babies’ room is just a few metres further on.
Food and Beverages
Delegates can make use of the various food and beverage outlets in the
main foyer as well as bring their own packed lunches. As a reminder, any
sharp items such as knives (including butter knives and pen knives) as well
as any glass items and metal flasks are not permitted in the arena**.
Alcoholic beverages of any kind are not to be brought to the convention site.
A good range of hot and cold food is available, however vendors have been
asked to close approximately 10mins before the sessions begin to allow
everyone to return to their seats in readiness for the opening musical
prelude. Delegates are invited to place any waste in the bins provided or
take it home with them. See arena food tariffs here.
*Butter knives or any other metal objects would be identified by the EVOLV screening units and
may delay your entrance into the arena.
First Aid
The First Aid department is located in the main foyer. There are also First
Aid stations in the main auditorium. Please remember this department can
only assist with first aid and emergency situations and is not authorised to
dispense prescribed medication. Delegates who take prescribed medication
are advised to bring it with them.
Please note: We are not able to provide special facilities such as quiet
rooms for those with special needs. If you have serious health issues and
are concerned about how you will cope at the convention please contact
your local elders first.
Cloakroom and Lost and Found
Lost children are to be reported immediately to the nearest available
attendant. If you are concerned that your child may have gone missing
please alert an attendant immediately and have identification details
including a recent photograph ready to help identify your child.
The lost and found department is available for delegates who have lost
items or who wish to hand in items that have been found. Delegates are
encouraged to pay particular attention at the end of sessions to ensure all
their property is accounted for and taken home.
PLEASE NOTE: THERE ARE NO STORAGE FACILITIES FOR SUITCASES
PROVIDED AT THIS ASSEMBLY. SUITCASES WILL NOT BE PERMITTED IN
THE ARENA BUILDING.
Baptism
May we ask all baptism candidates to report to the Baptism desk on Friday
morning. The attendants will direct you to the reserved seating area on
Saturday morning towards the front of the platform on the right hand side.
Please bring a modest bathing suit. T-shirts with logos or slogans would not
be appropriate. Changing rooms are provided for candidates behind the
platform area. Assistance will be available for any requiring help but if you
have any particular needs or concerns, please let your congregation
secretary know before reporting to the baptism desk on Friday to ensure
your needs are properly accommodated.
ELDERLY & INFIRM
It is heartwarming to see so many of our dear brothers and sisters make
every effort to attend the convention despite challenging health issues. The
following arrangements have been put in place to ensure that our elderly and
infirm brothers and sisters receive as much care as we are able to provide.
Delegate Assist
Arrangements will be in place to assist any with mobility issues make their
way safely from the coach drop off points to the main arena itself. This will
either be by means of a wheelchair or assisted walking where appropriate.
Elderly and Infirm Seating
A section of seating will be reserved to accommodate elderly and infirm
brothers and sisters over the age of 65, however marriage mates who are
younger, are welcome to sit with their partners. This section will be serviced
by brothers and sisters ready to offer assistance as and when required.
Should we enjoy warmer temperatures than usual cold drinks will also be on
hand.
Assistance for the hard of hearing
A deaf loop system will be in place to help those with hearing problems. The
attendants will direct you to the area where the system is operating.
Additionally the program will be transmitted on 87.7 MHz FM for any
wishing to use headphones.
Wheelchair Users
Spaces for wheelchairs will be located towards the rear of the ground floor
seating area. Along with each wheelchair an additional chair will be placed
to allow for a carer.
Due to limited space, all wheelchair spaces are required to have a
corresponding ticket. If you require a wheelchair space please see your
congregation secretary as soon as possible. We will not be in a position to
issue tickets at the arena.
August 2 - August 4, 2024
The Newcastle Utilita Arena is easily accessible via road or
bus. Central Station with its Metro link is less than half a mile
walk. The following links will allow you to enter your
postcode to locate directions from your home to the arena
via road, Metro, bus or train:
moovitapp.com/index/en-gb/public_transportation-
Utilita_Arena-North_East-site_8802011-2104
www.utilitaarena.co.uk/plan-your-visit/getting-to-the-venue
A clean air zone is now in place in part of Newcastle and
Gateshead. You can find out more information and which
vehicle it applies to at the following link:
https://www.breathe-cleanair.com
CONVENTION REMINDERS VIDEO
We trust the above information will provide you with all you need to
prepare for an enjoyable 3 day convention in August. May we also
encourage you along with your family, to review the “Convention
Reminders” video via JW.ORG or click on the link below.
https://www.jw.org/finder?srcid=share&wtlocale=E&lank=pub-
jwbkm_201504_1_VIDEO
If you would like to volunteer during the Convention, please approach the
Information and Volunteer desk located in the foyer. Please note that the
department will have to contact one of your Elders before assigning you
to a department.
Alternatively you can contact your congregation secretary during the
months leading up to the convention. In this way departments will be be
better prepared to make full use of your kind assistance.
The desk is also available to provide directions to local amenities such as
taxi firms, hotels, car parks and restaurants.
Please Note: Any volunteering to assist in the Cleaning department will
need to watch a training safety video prior to filling in the application
form. Details of the form can be obtained from the congregation secretary
and the training video can be found by clicking on the link below.
INFORMATION & VOLUNTEERS
© Newcastle Convention 2024
WELCOME
We are all eagerly awaiting our 2024
convention! No doubt this year’s convention
with the theme “Declare the Good News!” will
prove to be another milestone in our
theocratic calendar. To assist you in your
plans to attend all three days we have
supplied the following information. Simply
click on the links above to access the
information required.
TRANSPORT LINKS
ELDERLY & INFIRM
It is heartwarming to see so many of our
dear brothers and sisters make every
effort to attend the convention despite
challenging health issues. The following
arrangements have been put in place to
ensure that our elderly and infirm
brothers and sisters receive as much
care as we are able to provide.
Delegate Assist
Arrangements will be in place to assist
any with mobility issues make their way
safely from the coach drop off points to
the main arena itself. This will either be
by means of a wheelchair or assisted
walking where appropriate.
Elderly and Infirm Seating
A section of seating will be reserved to
accommodate elderly and infirm brothers
and sisters over the age of 65, however
marriage mates who are younger, are
welcome to sit with their partners. This
section will be serviced by brothers and
sisters ready to offer assistance as and
when required. Should we enjoy warmer
temperatures than usual cold drinks will
also be on hand.
Assistance for the hard of hearing
A deaf loop system will be in place to
help those with hearing problems. The
attendants will direct you to the area
where the system is operating.
Additionally the program will be
transmitted on 87.7 MHz FM for any
wishing to use headphones.
Wheelchair Users
Spaces for wheelchairs will be located
towards the rear of the ground floor
seating area. Along with each wheelchair
an additional chair will be placed to allow
for a carer.
Due to limited space, all wheelchair
spaces are required to have a
corresponding ticket. If you require a
wheelchair space please see your
congregation secretary as soon as
possible. We will not be in a position to
issue tickets at the arena.
PARKING
Onsite parking is limited to ticket
holders only. Applications must be
made via the congregation secretary.
May we request that delegates
refrain from parking in nearby streets
even if allowed to do so as this can
restrict customer parking for local
businesses. The simplified map (not
to scale) here shows the location of
the nearest Public Car Parks, as well
as the entrance for Arena Parking via
Dunn St.
There are several large public car
parks within easy reach of the arena.
Stephenson Quarter (Forth Banks,
NE1 3PH) is a 5-minute walk away.
Parking for up to 12 hours costs
£6.00.
Times Square car park (NE1 4AD) is
a 3-minute walk from the convention
venue. The tariff for 9 hours is £7.50.
For further alternatives, you may find
the following link useful.
www.parkopedia.com
SECURITY & SAFETY
Doors will open at 8.00am for elderly and
infirm ones and 8.15am for everyone else.
As in previous years bags will be searched
prior to entering the Arena. Your patience
and cooperation is very much appreciated.
All bags and other portable items must be
labelled to include:
Name, Congregation and Contact Number.
Wearing your lapel badge at all times will
greatly assist the attendants and help to
identify non-Witnesses who may need
additional help. Lapel badges must be
obtained through your congregation as they
will not be be issued at the convention. If
you have young children please ensure your
contact details are included on the reverse
side of their lapel badge. Additionally it will
greatly help the attendants if you take a
photograph of your child each day in the
event your child goes missing.
Please do not bring any sharp items such
as knives, including butter knives* and pen
knives, any glass item or metal flasks to the
arena. Try and keep your bags close to
hand at all times and if possible under your
seat when not in use to avoid any possible
trip hazard.
An Arena safety announcement will be
made at the beginning of each day. Please
pay close attention to it so as to
understand what you may need to do in the
event of an emergency evacuation. In the
unlikely event an evacuation becomes
necessary, please follow the instructions
from the attendants and look out for any
additional information on your
Congregation / Field Service Group
Whatsapp, if you have access to one.
Please feel free to report any matter you
feel uneasy about to any of the attendants
present.
FACILITIES
Pram Park
For safety reasons baby strollers and prams
are not permitted in the main seating area.
Parents may leave these in the designated
Pram Park located in the main entrance
foyer. Parents may however bring baby
carrier seats if they wish. As you can
appreciate this department can be very busy
at peak times, so your patience is greatly
appreciated.
Please note; Parents are encouraged to
check their prams and pushchairs for
valuable items such as phones, tablets or
wallets and any essential care items for
their children BEFORE leaving their prams /
pushchairs for storage.
Mothers and Babies
A section has been set aside for parents
with infant children to provide a facility for
feeding and or / changing, which can be
found to the right of the platform. Room in
this area is limited, so we kindly ask that
once your child’s needs have been cared for,
you return to the main auditorium to allow
room for other parents.
Please note that parents should bring their
own supply of baby food, nappies,
medication and other supplies that may be
needed. No provision will be made for these
items in the mothers and babies’ room.
Whilst microwaves and kettles will be
available, the use of these will not be
supervised by volunteers. Extra planning
may be required to ensure the associated
risks are minimised.
Prams or pushchairs are not permitted in
the mothers and babies’ room. They can
however be left at the Lost and Found
department which is located at the end of
the righthand corridor facing the platform.
The mothers and babies’ room is just a few
metres further on.
Food and Beverages
Delegates can make use of the various food
and beverage outlets in the main foyer as
well as bring their own packed lunches. As a
reminder, any sharp items such as knives
(including butter knives and pen knives) as
well as any glass items and metal flasks are
not permitted in the arena**. Alcoholic
beverages of any kind are not to be brought
to the convention site. A good range of hot
and cold food is available, however vendors
have been asked to close approximately
10mins before the sessions begin to allow
everyone to return to their seats in readiness
for the opening musical prelude. Delegates
are invited to place any waste in the bins
provided or take it home with them. See
arena food tariffs here.
*Butter knives or any other metal objects would be
identified by the EVOLV screening units and may delay
your entrance into the arena.
First Aid
The First Aid department is located in the
main foyer. There are also First Aid stations
in the main auditorium. Please remember
this department can only assist with first aid
and emergency situations and is not
authorised to dispense prescribed
medication. Delegates who take prescribed
medication are advised to bring it with them.
Please note: We are not able to provide
special facilities such as quiet rooms for
those with special needs. If you have
serious health issues and are concerned
about how you will cope at the convention
please contact your local elders first.
Cloakroom and Lost and Found
Lost children are to be reported immediately
to the nearest available attendant. If you are
concerned that your child may have gone
missing please alert an attendant
immediately and have identification details
including a recent photograph ready to help
identify your child.
The lost and found department is available
for delegates who have lost items or who
wish to hand in items that have been found.
Delegates are encouraged to pay particular
attention at the end of sessions to ensure all
their property is accounted for and taken
home.
PLEASE NOTE: THERE ARE NO STORAGE
FACILITIES FOR SUITCASES PROVIDED AT
THIS ASSEMBLY. SUITCASES WILL NOT BE
PERMITTED IN THE ARENA BUILDING.
Baptism
May we ask all baptism candidates to report
to the Baptism desk on Friday morning. The
attendants will direct you to the reserved
seating area on Saturday morning towards
the front of the platform on the right hand
side. Please bring a modest bathing suit. T-
shirts with logos or slogans would not be
appropriate. Changing rooms are provided
for candidates behind the platform area.
Assistance will be available for any requiring
help but if you have any particular needs or
concerns, please let your congregation
secretary know before reporting to the
baptism desk on Friday to ensure your
needs are properly accommodated.
The Newcastle Utilita Arena is easily
accessible via road or bus. Central Station
with its Metro link is less than half a mile
walk. The following links will allow you to
enter your postcode to locate directions
from your home to the arena via road,
Metro, bus or train:
moovitapp.com/index/en-
gb/public_transportation-Utilita_Arena-
North_East-site_8802011-2104
www.utilitaarena.co.uk/plan-your-
visit/getting-to-the-venue
A clean air zone is now in place in part of
Newcastle and Gateshead. You can find
out more information and which vehicle it
applies to at the following link:
https://www.breathe-cleanair.com
"Please Note: The Tyne Bridge is currently
undergoing major restoration work
resulting in lane closures. This will affect
the flow of traffic into and out of
Newcastle. Please allow for this when
planning your journey over the course of
the convention.
Up-to-date information can be found at:
https://tynebridge.org/travel-advice
INFORMATION &
VOLUNTEERS
If you would like to volunteer during the
Convention, please approach the
Information and Volunteer desk located in
the foyer. Please note that the department
will have to contact one of your Elders
before assigning you to a department.
Alternatively you can contact your
congregation secretary during the months
leading up to the convention. In this way
departments will be be better prepared to
make full use of your kind assistance.
The desk is also available to provide
directions to local amenities such as taxi
firms, hotels, car parks and restaurants.
Please Note: Any volunteering to assist in
the Cleaning department will need to
watch a training safety video prior to
filling in the application form. Details of
the form can be obtained from the
congregation secretary and the training
video can be found by clicking on the link
below.
CONVENTION
REMINDERS VIDEO
We trust the above information will
provide you with all you need to prepare
for an enjoyable 3 day convention in
August. May we also encourage you
along with your family, to review the
“Convention Reminders” video via
JW.ORG or click on the link below.
https://www.jw.org/finder?srcid=share&
wtlocale=E&lank=pub-
jwbkm_201504_1_VIDEO
© Newcastle Convention 2024
