Building a Stronger Teesside: Community Hub Conference

Bringing together community leaders and changemakers…

Do you run a voluntary, community or social enterprise (VCSE) organisation, or are you a business owner looking to maximise your social value impact in the Tees Valley? As a VCSE organisation are you interested in co-produced research with Teesside University academics?

If so, we're excited to invite you to Teesside University’s new annual conference. A flagship event for the VCSE sector; Building a Stronger Teesside - the Teesside University Community Hub Conference will help catalyse collaboration and strengthen connections. It is also an opportunity to find out what your local University can do for you and your organisation.

We are particularly excited to announce Dame Julia Unwin, former CEO of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, as our keynote speaker.

This conference is your chance to:

• Find the support you and your organisation need - discover funding opportunities, potential collaborators, and new ideas to improve your impact.
• Get your voice heard - share your organisation''s work and requirements with University decision-makers.
• Find out how Teesside University can help you address the challenges our communities face.
• Shape Teesside''s future - help create a stronger, more connected community where everyone thrives.

You can expect a day of practical sessions, inspiring stories, and networking opportunities designed to put your community needs first. The event will comprise the following elements:

• Panel discussions - to discuss key challenges and bring together stakeholders with a shared mission.
• Workshops and presentations – on practical topics relevant to the VCSE sector.
• Showcase - browse stalls and meet the people who deliver the University’s support services over coffee and lunch.

Keynote speaker: Dame Julia Unwin DBE

Dame Julia Unwin was the Chief Executive of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation for a decade until the end of 2016. In 2017 she launched and chaired the Independent Inquiry into the Future of Civil Society in England, which reported in November 2018, and held a fellowship with Carnegie UK Trust 2017/18 considering the role of kindness in public policy. She has written and spoken extensively on issues relating to philanthropy, governance, the voluntary sector and its relationship with government. Her publications include ‘Why Fight Poverty?’, ‘Kindness, Emotions and Relationships’, the ‘Blind Spot in Public Policy Making’ and ‘The Grant Making Tango’. Dame Julia has been recognised for her contributions to the VCSE sector with a number of awards and honorary positions, including the awarding of a DBE in the 2020 New Year Honours.

Refreshments and lunch will be provided.