BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Power to Change - ECPv6.15.16//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Power to Change X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.powertochange.org.uk X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Power to Change REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Europe/London BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:BST DTSTART:20230326T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:GMT DTSTART:20231029T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:BST DTSTART:20240331T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:GMT DTSTART:20241027T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:BST DTSTART:20250330T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:GMT DTSTART:20251026T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:BST DTSTART:20260329T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:GMT DTSTART:20261025T010000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251129T080000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251205T170000 DTSTAMP:20260608T195847 CREATED:20251006T165650Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251201T115752Z UID:91698-1764403200-1764954000@www.powertochange.org.uk SUMMARY:Events | Community Business Week 2025 DESCRIPTION:  \nSaturday 29 November> Friday 5 December\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This #CommunityBusinessWeek\, we’re celebrating the businesses that make our towns\, cities\, and communities vibrant\, resilient\, and inclusive. \nFrom pubs and farms to libraries and community centres\, community businesses are transforming lives and places across England. We’re encouraging everyone to discover\, visit\, or support their local community business during the week. In this spirit\, we’ve teamed up with five community businesses across the country to celebrate Community Business Week in person. \n \n Community Business Week 2025\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our event partners\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We Can Make\n Location: Bristol \n Date: Sunday 30 November  \nTime: 4.30 – 8.30pm \nA community lights switch-on\, festive celebration\, and drinks. We Can Make will also be showcasing their new retrofit-themed light-up interactive game\, Street Lighter. \n \n \n \n Join in\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Star and Shadow Cinema\n Location: Newcastle \n Date: Saturday 29 – Sunday 30 November  \nTime: 12pm-9:30pm   \nAn ‘open doors weekend’ full of music\, films and community activities. \n \n \n \n See what's on\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Civic Square\n Location: Birmingham \n Date: Thursday 4 December  \nTime:  3–8pm \nAn afternoon of sharing\, learning\, and celebration\, reflecting on a year of organising around street scale and neighbourhood retrofit. Expect site tours\, dinner\, conversation\, and screenings – all exploring how we can build thriving neighbourhoods in a changing climate.  \n \n \n \n Register\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Friends of Stretford Public Hall\n Location: Greater Manchester \n Date: Thursday 4 December  \nTime: 5.30-10.30pm \nAn evening of talks and live music\, marking 10 years of community power in Stretford and celebrating community businesses from across Greater Manchester and the North West. \n \n \n \n Register\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Edberts House\n Location: Gateshead \n Date: Friday 5 December  \nTime: 4:30–7pm  \nA community Christmas lights switch on\, with food\, market stalls\, music\, and crafts. \n \n \n \n Register\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Get involved\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download the toolkit\nThis toolkit will have everything you need to shout about Community Business Week and help you promote your community business. Expect: explainers\, social media assets\, flyers\, posters\, stickers\, guides for putting on events\, and support for local press outreach. \n  \n \n Get yours...\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Share your advice\nCommunity businesses work hard day in\, day out to serve their communities – and it’s not always easy. To build solidarity\, share your one piece of advice for others working at a community-led business. \n  \n \n Add yours\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Community Business Week 2025\n \n Celebrating ten years backing community business URL:https://www.powertochange.org.uk/event/community-business-week/ CATEGORIES:Celebrating 10 years ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.powertochange.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/CBW_WebsiteHeaderImage.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Power to Change":MAILTO:comms@powertochange.org.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251118T183000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251118T200000 DTSTAMP:20260608T195847 CREATED:20251105T181533Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251118T161659Z UID:92701-1763490600-1763496000@www.powertochange.org.uk SUMMARY:Event | From the ground up: Community business & Britain’s next decade  DESCRIPTION:For the past decade\, Power to Change has seen community business grow steadily into a movement that spans the country. While our economy is still failing to improve living standards for everyone and too many communities feel powerless to make change\, this collection advances a vision of Britain’s future where power and resources are in local hands and calls on those who can make it happen.  \nMarking our 10th anniversary\, the collection brings together creative thinkers\, practitioners\, and local and national leaders to reflect on the past decade of community business and explore how communities can meet the challenges ahead with resilience and unity. \nYou can already read some of the brilliant contributions from the likes of Vidhya Alakeson\, Nick Garland and inspiring community business leaders like Sacha Bedding in Hartlepool.  \nThe launch will feature a panel discussion chaired by Anoosh Chakelian\, Britain Editor of the New Statesman and essay contributor. \n \n Sign up for the event\n \n Read the collection\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Anoosh Chakelian (Chair)\n Britain Editor at the New Statesman \n Anoosh Chakelian is an award-winning social affairs journalist covering politics\, policy and social affairs across Britain. She is host of the award-winning New Statesman Podcast and co-presents the Westminster Reimagined podcast series with Armando Iannucci.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Emily Bolton\n Chief Executive and Founder of Our Future \n Emily Bolton is the CEO and co-founder of Our Future – working to back post industrial communities to create a thriving future. Previously part of the founding team and latterly executive board member at Social Finance. Her work has focused on creating impact at scale. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rachel Coldicutt\n Executive Director of Careful Industries \n \n\nRachel Coldicutt is a researcher and strategist specialising in inclusive\, community-powered innovation and the social impacts of new and emerging technologies. Rachel has been working in technology since the 1990s and is currently founder and executive director of research consultancy Careful Industries. She was previously the founding CEO of responsible technology think tank Doteveryone and was awarded an OBE for services to the digital society in the 2019 New Year’s Honours.   \n\n\nRead Rachel’s essay \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Hetan Shah\n Chief Executive of The British Academy and Chair of Our World in Data \n Hetan is chief executive of the British Academy\, the UK’s national academy for the humanities and social sciences. He is Chair of Our World in Data\, a website providing long run data and evidence on global challenges. Hetan was appointed in 2024 by the UK Parliament to the board of the National Audit Office\, the UK’s independent spending watchdog. He is Visiting Professor at the Policy Institute\, Kings College London and a Fellow at Birkbeck College\, University of London. Hetan serves on a number of advisory boards including at the Resolution Foundation and UCL’s Policy Lab. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n James Plunkett\n Convenor of Kinship Works \n \n\nJames is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years experience in UK policy-making\, including roles across the private\, public\, and third sectors\, from Downing Street to leading think tanks and charities. He convenes of Kinship Works\, an organisation supporting more human alternatives to bureaucracy. He posts on Blue Sky\, Medium\, and Substack. \nRead James’s essay \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Patrick Hurley MP\n MP for Southport \n Patrick Hurley is the MP for Southport and Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group for the Social\, Co-operative and Community Economy.   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Josiah Sulc \n CEO\, Rooted In \n Josiah is CEO of Rooted In\, a community development charity providing services and training opportunities and operating two community cafes in Allerton and Lower Grange\, West Bradford. Through Rooted In Community Homes\, the organisation is seeking to address a lack of affordable family housing in the neighbourhood\, with an ambitious plan for 52 new community homes built by and for local people. \n \n \n \n Sign up for the event\n \n Read the collection URL:https://www.powertochange.org.uk/event/event-from-the-ground-up-community-business-and-britains-next-decade/ LOCATION:British Academy\, Westminster\, 10-11 Carlton House Terrace\, London\, SW1Y 5AH\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Celebrating 10 years ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.powertochange.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Promoting-content-4-e1762366510644.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Power to Change":MAILTO:comms@powertochange.org.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250920T080000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251008T170000 DTSTAMP:20260608T195847 CREATED:20250812T082006Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251002T120052Z UID:91053-1758355200-1759942800@www.powertochange.org.uk SUMMARY:Party conferences 2025: bringing community business into the room DESCRIPTION:This page will be updated regularly throughout the conference season with the latest information and confirmed speakers.  \n  \nLabour Conference\, 28 September – 1 October\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Community businesses are already working on the ground to tackle the big issues of our time and we want people delivering this change to be heard loud and clear at Labour conference this year.   \nThis year\, at conference we will be working with a group of seven community business leaders from across England to burst the conference bubble\, bringing people with skin in the game face to face with national policymakers and political influencers.   \nIf you’re curating a panel and want practical insight from those making change happen\, get in touch with lucy.symington@powertochange.org to find out if a community business leader can bring real world experience to your panel.   \n \n Meet the community business leaders joining us at Labour conference\n \n \n \n \n \n Our programme of fringe events at Labour Party Conference:\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Merseyside Community Power Roundtable\, Saturday 27 September\nWith the Co-operative Party and Make CIC.  \nThis private roundtable\, with Mayor of Liverpool City Region\, Steve Rotheram and Alison McGovern\, MP for Birkenhead and Minister for Local Government\, will bring Liverpool based community businesses and organisations together to celebrate what communities have achieved and what they can do more of with the right support. This event is invite only.  \nBeyond Blue Labour: does communitarianism present a roadmap for renewing social democracy? Sunday 28 September\, 12.45-1.45pm\, RIBA North\nWith UCL Policy Lab and We’re Right Here.   \nJoin us as we launch a new essay collection exploring how communitarianism might provide the roadmap to strengthening our politics and renewing Britain.Speakers include: \n\nIntroduction by Andy Jackson\, The Heeley Trust\nMarc Stears\, UCL Policy Lab\nFrances Foley\, Compass  \nJosh Simons MP\, Parliamentary Secretary in the Cabinet Office   \nKirsty McNeil MP\, Minister for Scotland\n\nHolding on to HOPE: How to build community Britain\, Monday 29 September\, 4pm\, ACC Meeting Room 12\nWith the Co-operative Party and HOPE Not Hate. \nIt’s time for the political system to recognise and value the social\, economic and political power of communities. The Co-operative Party\, HOPE not Hate and Power to Change are hosting vital discussion on the steps needed to do that and to build community power for the future.Speakers include: \n\nRos Wynne-Jones\, The Mirror (Chair) \nKirsty McNeil MP\, Minister for Scotland\nCaitlin Prowle\, The Co-operative Party\nMisbah Malik\, HOPE Not Hate \nSacha Bedding\, The Wharton Trust\n\nDrinks reception: Growth you can see\, feel\, and be a part of\, with community business\,  Monday 29 September\, 5pm-7pm\, Baltic Creative\, 49 Jamaica Street\, L1 0AH \nBurst the conference bubble and join community business leaders to explore how we can spark change that reaches into everyday life in every community.Speakers include: \n\nChris Curtis MP\, Labour Growth Group \nMarie Osborne\, Future Wolverton \n\n \n Sign up \n \n \n \n \n \n Liberal Democrat Conference\, 20-23 September 2025  \nIf you’re attending the Liberal Democrat party conference in Bournemouth this year and want to connect\, please contact lucy.symington@powertochange.org.uk. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Conservative Conference\, 5-8 October 2025  \nIf you’re attending the Conservative party conference in Manchester this year and want to connect\, please contact jessica.craig@powertochange.org.uk. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n See all events\n \n Read our new research 'Returning power to the people' URL:https://www.powertochange.org.uk/event/party-conferences-2025-bringing-community-business-into-the-room/ LOCATION:Various venues ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.powertochange.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Power_to_Change_Event_©Robin_Clewley-0131.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Power to Change":MAILTO:comms@powertochange.org.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250827T120000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250827T130000 DTSTAMP:20260608T195847 CREATED:20250805T155345Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250901T132516Z UID:91003-1756296000-1756299600@www.powertochange.org.uk SUMMARY:Policy briefing: High street regeneration and community ownership DESCRIPTION:Join Power to Change\, policy experts and practitioners for a community business policy briefing. \nTogether\, we’ll explore recent developments and upcoming changes in the policy landscape on high street regeneration and community ownership. We’ll break down what these developments mean for community-led action on the high street and beyond\, with an opportunity for you to share your questions and insights. \nWho should join us? This session will be of interest to community businesses and individuals working on community-led high street renewal and community asset ownership projects. \n \n Sign up for the event\n \n \n \n \n \n What we’ll cover\nOverview of the policy landscape \nCommunity Right to Buy update \nPutting High Street Rental Auctions into practice \nThe Plan for Neighbourhoods and hyperlocal regeneration \nQ&A session \n \n \n \n \n \n Our speakers\nJack Lawrence\, Senior Policy Advisor\, Ministry of Housing and Local Government \nHannah Seston\, Ministry of Housing and Local Government \nBen Stephenson\, Director and Placemaking Consultant\, BAS Consultancy \nJessica Craig\, Policy Manager\, Power to Change \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catch up on the briefing:\nIf you missed us\, you can catch up on the session here. URL:https://www.powertochange.org.uk/event/policy-briefing-high-street-regeneration-and-community-ownership/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.powertochange.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/toa-heftiba-pzk2Xh1uUNU-unsplash.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250605T123000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250605T133000 DTSTAMP:20260608T195847 CREATED:20250513T160343Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250605T161134Z UID:89464-1749126600-1749130200@www.powertochange.org.uk SUMMARY:Webinar: Lessons in local growth DESCRIPTION:The Prime Minister has made strategic authorities a key part of his plans for national economic growth\, asking metro mayors to produce Local Growth Plans for their regions. Power to Change’s new report\, ‘Lessons in local growth’\, argues that alongside boosting high growth industries these growth plans provide a timely opportunity to create inclusive growth\, by working with organisations in the social economy – like community businesses\, co-operatives and social enterprises.  \nJoin Power to Change and regional and local partners as we launch our new report and discuss how strategic authorities can help drive inclusive local growth through partnership and support for local social economy organisations.   \n \n Sign up for the event\n \n \n \n \n \n Speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Nicola Steuer (Chair)\n Deputy Chief Executive\, Power to Change \n \n\n\nNicola provides leadership to Power to Change’s think-do work\, through leading the Practice and Innovation\, Strategy and Culture\, Organisation Services and Finance teams. She convenes partners at a local\, regional and national level to work alongside community business\, improving outcomes for people and places and generating insights to influence policy. \n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Natalie White \n Practice and Innovation Manager\, Power to Change \n Natalie is the lead author of this report. Natalie is a Practice and Innovation Manager at Power to Change\, she manages our partnerships with local and regional authorities\, and oversees the delivery of a portfolio of activities and investments that shape the conditions for community business and the wider social economy to thrive in place. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Afzal Hussain \n Chief Officer\, Witton Lodge Community Association \n Afzal is Chief Officer at Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA) – a dynamic social enterprise and community landlord in Birmingham. Prior to this\, he led large-scale urban regeneration schemes in Coventry and Birmingham\, during his tenure in local government. He is a staunch advocate of community-led approaches\, with a proven track record of driving transformation and impact\, most recently through his work on WMCA’s Social Economy Cluster and the creation of Birmingham Community Action Network (B:CAN). \nAfzal also undertakes several Board roles. He is a Chair of Birmingham Metropolitan College\, Chair of Health Inequalities\, Communities and Economies (HICE) Committee at Birmingham and Solihull ICB\, and a Member of West Midlands Mayor’s Taskforce on Homes. In 2022\, he was appointed Deputy Lieutenant for the West Midlands. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jo Leek \n Senior Investment Manager\, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority \n \n\nJo is Senior Investment Manager at Liverpool City Region Combined Authority\, specialising in social investment\, business support and people projects. She has 18 years professional experience across various sectors including financial services\, business support and energy. Her experience spans across private and public sector\, social economy and higher education. \nShe was awarded her PhD in 2019 which looked at the role of social enterprise in wider system transformation. Her PhD\, along with diverse professional background gives her a holistic view of the complexities and interdependencies that exist within Economic Development. She also is a Director for the Institute of Economic Development. \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kate Duffy\n Founder\, Junction Point CIC \n Kate Duffy is the founder of Junction Point CIC\, an infrastructure organisation that supports changemakers to turn bold ideas into lasting impact. With 16 years of experience in the social sector\, Kate has worked to strengthen the social economy from the ground up — particularly in places where access to support is patchy or postcode-dependent. She leads the North East Changemakers community and is currently developing nationally recognised qualifications to professionalise support for social entrepreneurs. Kate is passionate about championing practical solutions that ensure purpose-led people have the tools\, networks\, and confidence to lead sustainable change. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catch up on the webinar:\nIf you missed us\, you can catch up on the panel discussion. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Watch the recording URL:https://www.powertochange.org.uk/event/lessons-in-local-growth/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Webinar ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.powertochange.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Gavin-Forster-Photography-7389.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Power to Change":MAILTO:comms@powertochange.org.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250520T123000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250520T133000 DTSTAMP:20260608T195847 CREATED:20250415T155528Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250520T172401Z UID:89099-1747744200-1747747800@www.powertochange.org.uk SUMMARY:The economic contribution of community business DESCRIPTION:Power to Change has long advocated for greater investment in and support of community business\, but there has been a gap in the quantitative evidence base around the unique economic contribution that community business makes\, both at national and local levels. \nPower to Change’s new report\, ‘The economic contribution of community business’\, provides an estimate of the total economic contribution made by community business in terms of Gross Value Added (GVA)\, the first time this has been done in the sector. In this panel discussion\, we will discuss the findings of this research\, and the ways in which community businesses can use key figures to make the case for investment. \n \n Sign up for the event\n \n \n \n \n \n Speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Nick Plumb (Chair)\n Director of Policy and Insight\, Power to Change \n Nick provides overall direction for our policy\, research\, communications and advocacy work. He oversees a team which develops new policy thinking\, carries out original research and analysis\, builds Power to Change’s profile\, and champions community business \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Linda Hien\n Insight Manager\, Power to Change \n Linda ensures Power to Change’s research and insight programme is rigorous\, creative and high impact. She oversees and provides guidance for research across the organisation\, and gathers robust evidence and learning around the community business sector. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Andrew Graves\n Director\, Ortus Economic Research \n Andrew is an analyst\, evaluator and project director\, having worked in the economic development field for 31 years. Throughout his career\, Andrew has been at the forefront of designing and delivering research and evaluation projects related to economic policy. His impact project experience covers innovation projects\, strategic plans\, capital investments\, cultural programmes and skills development projects. He has worked for a wide range of clients giving him extensive experience of a breadth of policy and organisational contexts. He counts many of the key UK economic policy organisations as his clients. Andrew is currently leading the 6-year impact evaluation of the National Innovation Centre for Data on behalf of Newcastle University. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Andrew Rowell\n Director\, Ortus Economic Research \n Andy has more than 25 years’ experience as a data analyst and researcher. Andy was formerly Head of Observatory at Trends Business Research Ltd\, leading a team of specialist data analysts and statisticians also responsible for the maintenance and development of TBR’s in-house research database of firm-level business information\, called TCR. Prior to joining TBR\, he was responsible for the regional programme of research and analysis at Learning and Skills Council North East and subsequently\, Young People’s Learning Agency\, North East. Andy has extensive experience of research and evaluation in the areas of economic development\, social inclusion\, education and skills. He has designed and led many research studies focused on identifying policy recommendations or assessing the impact of policy initiatives. He leads Ortus’s analytical work\, both in the UK and internationally. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Miller\n Consultant \n Stephen is an independent consultant with almost twenty years’ experience of supporting charities\, community businesses and social enterprises to achieve greater impact by demonstrating their unique value and improving how they work. He specialises in social research\, policy\, and social innovation\, all with the common goal of creating a fairer and more inclusive economy. Examples of his recent projects include: supporting NHS Scotland redesign healthcare services to transition towards net zero;  supporting a new charitable foundation to develop their strategy and evaluation framework as they seek to bring about a fair and just food and farming system; and supporting a housing association to develop a community investment strategy to maximise social value. Stephen has previously held senior research and policy roles at Design Council and UnLtd – the Foundation for Social Entrepreneurs\, and was most recently Director of Delivery and Impact at Power to Change. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Watch the webinar:\nCatch up on our report authors discussing the research alongside Andy Graves\, Andrew Rowell\, and Stephen Miller. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Watch the webinar URL:https://www.powertochange.org.uk/event/the-economic-contribution-of-community-business/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Webinar ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.powertochange.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Kittys-Laundrette-2.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Power to Change":MAILTO:comms@powertochange.org.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250508T123000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250508T133000 DTSTAMP:20260608T195847 CREATED:20250415T130733Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250508T152507Z UID:88692-1746707400-1746711000@www.powertochange.org.uk SUMMARY:Closing the void: How we reconnect politics with associational life DESCRIPTION:Our democracy is in poor health. Trust and satisfaction with political parties and government is at an all time low and the gap between people and power is growing wider by the day. \nBut it’s not a strongman leader people want to change this. It’s more citizen involvement in democracy. This is according to brand new polling from More in Common for Power to Change. Power to Change’s new report\, Closing the Void\, explores whether people who are involved in associational organisations – from community businesses to working men’s clubs\, residents’ associations to sports teams  – are more likely trust democratic institutions than those who are not. \nJoin us\, and a panel of political and community experts\, on Thursday 8 May to hear more about this research and how we can rebuild trust in democracy from the ground up. \n \n Sign up for the event\n \n \n \n \n \n Speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Nick Plumb (Chair)\n Director of Policy and Insight\, Power to Change \n Nick is a co-author of the report and the chair of this event. Nick provides overall direction for our policy\, research\, communications and advocacy work. He oversees a team which develops new policy thinking\, carries out original research and analysis\, and champions community business.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Charlotte Hollins\n Manager of Fordhall Farm and We’re Right Here campaign leader \n Charlotte is the founder and general manager of the Fordhall Community Land Initiative\, England’s first community owned farm\, with a community membership reaching over 8\,000. Fordhall Farm is approaching 20 years in community ownership and through its lifetime\, Charlotte has supported countless more communities to place land into community ownership. She is also one of eight leaders working on the We’re Right Here campaign for community power\, and is piloting a community covenant in her hometown of Market Drayton with close to 20 local organisations. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Deborah Mattinson\n Political Consultant \n Deborah Mattinson is a political strategist\, entrepreneur\, and leading voice in public opinion. A mastermind behind Labour’s 2024 election win\, shaping British politics for over 30 years. Now in the House of Lords\, she continues to drive progressive change and national conversation. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Josh Westerling\n Policy Manager\, Power to Change \n \n\nJosh is a one of the authors of the report.\nJosh leads on Power to Change’s advocacy work. He generates ideas\, strategies\, and research to influence change\, building coalitions to do so\, alongside people with real-world experience. As the organisation’s lead on ‘community power’ Josh has led the organisation’s recent policy and advocacy work in this area\, as well as supporting new practice in places across England. He advises the We’re Right Here campaign on its political strategy\, which has successfully campaigned for a Community Right to Buy. \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Linda Hien\n Insight Manager\, Power to Change \n Linda is a co-author of the report.\nLinda ensures Power to Change’s research and insight programme is rigorous\, creative and high impact. She oversees and provides guidance for research across the organisation\, and gathers robust evidence and learning around the community business sector.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Marc Stears\n Director\, UCL Policy Lab \n Marc Stears is an internationally regarded academic\, political strategist\, speechwriter and executive educator\, who specialises in creating dynamic collaborations between academic researchers and broader society. Currently the inaugural Director of the UCL Policy Lab\, Marc has previously been Director of the Sydney Policy Lab at the University of Sydney\, CEO of the New Economics Foundation\, Professor of political theory at the University of Oxford and chief speechwriter to the UK Labour Party. He enjoys a worldwide reputation as a leadership coach and communications strategist\, having supported Board and Executive Committee members for major organisations including for some of the world’s largest companies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Watch the webinar:\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Watch the recording URL:https://www.powertochange.org.uk/event/closing-the-void-how-we-reconnect-politics-with-associational-life/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Webinar ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.powertochange.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2019_NW_The-Proud-Trust_2-people-sticking-postit-notes-on-wall_LGBT-ASS-YP.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Power to Change":MAILTO:comms@powertochange.org.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250507T160000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250507T170000 DTSTAMP:20260608T195848 CREATED:20250326T171548Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250417T150246Z UID:88488-1746633600-1746637200@www.powertochange.org.uk SUMMARY:Trading for Good Information Session #2 DESCRIPTION:Do you run a project or organisation that exists to improve your local community? Is it led by local people and trading for community benefit? Do you find it challenging to find time to spend growing your business? \nTrading for Good can help you develop your community business through a specialist programme of support. \nWith a group of others like you\, you will learn from the experts\, and each other\, to grow your community business. You will also receive a Match Trading™ Grant that combined with the learning programme will support you to develop trading income streams and build a resilient community business. This programme will give you the knowledge\, skills\, and confidence to develop and grow projects that tackle social and environmental challenges. \n\n\n\n\n \n More about Trading for Good\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\nAbout the webinar\n\nThis session will cover details about the Trading for Good programme\, its eligibility criteria\, and how to apply. This session is run by the School for Social Entrepreneurs. \n\n\n\n\n \n Register for the webinar URL:https://www.powertochange.org.uk/event/trading-for-good-information-session-2/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Webinar ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.powertochange.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/TFG-Community-Business-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250408T120000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250408T130000 DTSTAMP:20260608T195848 CREATED:20250326T171037Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250328T161412Z UID:88470-1744113600-1744117200@www.powertochange.org.uk SUMMARY:Trading for Good Information Session #1 DESCRIPTION:Do you run a project or organisation that exists to improve your local community? Is it led by local people and trading for community benefit? Do you find it challenging to find time to spend growing your business? \nTrading for Good can help you develop your community business through a specialist programme of support. \nWith a group of others like you\, you will learn from the experts\, and each other\, to grow your community business. You will also receive a Match Trading™ Grant that combined with the learning programme will support you to develop trading income streams and build a resilient community business. This programme will give you the knowledge\, skills\, and confidence to develop and grow projects that tackle social and environmental challenges. \n\n\n\n\n \n More about Trading for Good\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n\nAbout the webinar\n\nThis session will cover details about the Trading for Good programme\, its eligibility criteria\, and how to apply. This session is run by the School for Social Entrepreneurs. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n Register for the webinar URL:https://www.powertochange.org.uk/event/trading-for-good-information-session-1/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Webinar ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.powertochange.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/TFG-Community-Business-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241211T123000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241211T133000 DTSTAMP:20260608T195848 CREATED:20241122T100445Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260212T162734Z UID:86888-1733920200-1733923800@www.powertochange.org.uk SUMMARY:Department stories: How communities are reimagining a national institution DESCRIPTION:Communities across the country are developing their own solutions to the decline of department stores\, tackling both high street vacancy and the loss of these important social spaces. They are part of a wider movement of communities taking back their high streets\, bringing new life to old buildings to strengthen their communities and keep money circulating in their local economies. \nPower to Change launches a new report\, ‘Department stories: How communities are reimagining a national institution’. This online discussion showcases the communities across the country repurposing empty department stores and other historic high streets assets to create vibrant and needed spaces in their community. We discuss how community business\, government at all levels\, and key stakeholders can help communities create the high streets of tomorrow. \n \n Read the report\n \n Watch the event recording\n \n \n \n \n \n Speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jonn Elledge (Chair)\n Journalist \n Jonn Elledge is a freelance journalist and broadcaster\, writing for titles including the Guardian\, i Paper and CapX and contributing a weekly column to the New Statesman. He was previously an assistant editor at the NS\, where he was responsible for launching and editing the urbanism site CityMetric\, hosting the Skylines podcast and writing a lot of angry columns about transport\, housing policy and Brexit. His books include A History of the World in 47 Borders: The Stories Behind the Lines On Our Maps (2024); while his weekly Newsletter of (Not Quite) Everything Substack\, a baffling digest of politics\, history\, geography and nerdery. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Graham Soult\n Retail Consultant\, Canny Insights \n Graham Soult is a high-street champion who founded the retail consultancy business CannyInsights.com in 2010. A passionate advocate for building strong networks and partnerships\, Graham is the chairman of networking organisation Durham Business Group. He’s been a Fellow of the Institute of Place Management (IPM) since 2018. He also served as an Expert within the High Streets Task Force\, a government initiative\, which ran from 2019 to 2024 and was managed by IPM\, to support communities and local authorities in England in transforming their high streets and strengthening local place leadership. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jess Craig\n Policy Manager\, Power to Change \n Jess works with colleagues and external partners to deliver policy-relevant research and develop well-informed policy ideas that support community businesses to thrive. She helps to build strong relationships with central and local government to put community business on the policy agenda. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Julian Dobson\n Senior Research Fellow\, Sheffield Hallam University \n Julian is a researcher and writer with a broad interest in place and society\, and a particular focus on the complex systemic changes required to achieve environmentally and socially just approaches to urban life. His research expertise is in social and economic regeneration\, urban greenspace\, town and city centres and the civic role of universities. He is especially interested in how and why change happens and the role of evidence in shaping policy and practice. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kathryn Chiswell Jones\n CEO\, Artspace UK \n Kathryn Chiswell Jones has headed up Artspace Lifespace since 2017 and co-founded Sparks Bristol with Jenny Foster of Global Goals Centre in 2023. Artspace Lifespace is an arts charity managing unique venues to provide affordable spaces for artists to make\, develop and showcase their work. We offer a mix of artists’ studios and space for exhibitions\, filming\, events\, rehearsal and independent retail across our Bristol venues The Island\, The Vestibules\, Broadmead XP (The Galleries)\, Sparks Bristol and the Arts Mansion in North Somerset. \n \n \n \n Read the report URL:https://www.powertochange.org.uk/event/department-stories-how-communities-are-reimagining-a-national-institution/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Webinar ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.powertochange.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/SPARKS-51.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Power to Change":MAILTO:comms@powertochange.org.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241121T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241121T170000 DTSTAMP:20260608T195848 CREATED:20241106T145001Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241106T150937Z UID:86620-1732183200-1732208400@www.powertochange.org.uk SUMMARY:West Midlands Social Economy Showcase DESCRIPTION:We’re pleased to sponsor the West Midlands Social Economy Showcase – Conference & Exhibition. \nJoin us for a day filled with inspiring talks\, networking opportunities\, and innovative exhibits. \n9:30 AM – Registration\, Networking and Expo \nLearn from industry experts\, connect with like-minded individuals\, and discover the latest trends in social economy. \n10:00 AM – Opening Plenary: The Future of the Social Economy \nA high-level overview of the current trends\, challenges\, and opportunities within the social economy. Keynote speakers from various sectors will share insights into how businesses\, public sector bodies\, and social enterprises can work together to create a more inclusive and sustainable economy. \n11:00 AM – Corporate Engagement in the Social Economy \nThis session will explore how corporate organizations can partner with social enterprises to drive social impact while achieving business goals. Case studies of successful collaborations and discussions on CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) and shared value will be highlighted. \n12:00 PM – Building a Sustainable Supply Chain with Social Enterprises & Community Business \nFocused on public sector corporate procurement strategies\, this session will discuss how organisations can integrate social enterprises into their supply chains\, fostering sustainability and community impact while meeting corporate objectives. \n1:00 PM – Measuring Social Impact: Tools and Techniques \nA practical workshop on how to measure and communicate the social impact of projects and partnerships. This session will include an introduction to social return on investment (SROI) and other impact measurement frameworks. \n2:00 PM – Access to Funding: Navigating Grants\, Investments\, and Partnerships \nThis session will explore the various funding options available for social enterprises and how corporate and public sector partners can support their growth through investments\, grants\, and strategic partnerships. \n3:00 PM – Learning from Social Enterprise Leaders \nPresentations from leading social enterprises that have successfully scaled their impact through partnerships with corporates and the public sector. Each case study will offer practical insights and lessons learned. \n4:00 PM – Networking \nTo get involved in the Social Economy Drive please email events@i-se.co.uk for more information or visit. URL:https://www.powertochange.org.uk/event/west-midlands-social-economy-showcase/ LOCATION:Millennium Point\, Millennium Point\, Birmingham\, B4 7AP\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Conference ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.powertochange.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/https___cdn.evbuc_.com_images_842493829_55155125061_1_original.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241121T093000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241121T170000 DTSTAMP:20260608T195848 CREATED:20241106T150030Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241106T150805Z UID:86741-1732181400-1732208400@www.powertochange.org.uk SUMMARY:North East Social Enterprise Day DESCRIPTION:Join us for a day celebrating\, connecting and sharing best practice with North East social enterprises! \n\n\n\n\n\nPower to Change is proud to help sponsor this year’s North East Social Enterprise day. \nThere are 3 ticket options this year:\n\nIn person: you can expect unlimited tea and coffee throughout the event as well as a delicious buffet lunch. (£8pp)\nLive access: you can expect live feeds and opportunities to intereact with the in-person event from the comfort of your sofa. (£5pp)\nOn-Demand access: you can access recordings of the live event at a time convenient to you. (£5pp)\n\nFrom previous years feedback\, we understand that the most important part of the day is the opportunity to make new and meaningful connections. With this in mind\, we have designed a day with both structured and informal networking opportunities as well as space to promote & learn about each other. This is our first time trialing a hybrid event but we’re doing our best to ensure ‘meaningful connections’ are possible to achieve regardless of your ticket type. \nAgenda:\n9.30-10.00: Arrive\, sign in & network. \n10.00-10.45: Main stage \nWelcome from Kate Duffy\, Founder of Junction Point CIC \nKey note speaker: Sharon Boyd\, I.M.P.A.C.T North East \nAddress from The North East Combined Authority \n11.00-12.00: Structured networking session led by Jeni Smith from Net kno. \n12.00-12.45: Lunch & networking. \n12.45-14.00: Round table discussions: A chance to share experiences\, hear best practice and connect with likeminded people… \nRoom 1: Money. Facilitated by Kay Wightman \n· Does it really matter where it comes from if it allows you to do good? (Grants vs contracts vs direct sales vs donations etc) \n· How do you balance the need for income generation vs time spent on achieving your impact? \n· We all know we should be doing more financial planning (cashflow forecasts\, budgets etc)\, but what do you actually do to keep your organisation’s finances healthy? \nRoom 2: Impact Measurement. Facilitated by Heidi Fisher \n· If no-one asks\, should we even care about measuring our impact? \n· What are the best framework options for people exploring impact measurement for the first time? \n· In your opinion\, what are the best practice guiding principles to ethical impact measurement? \n14.00-15.00: Market place \nShowcase your social enterprise to a room full of social enterprise enthusiasts! \n14.45-16.00: Informal networking \nCafe/Bar open for anyone wanting to continue discussions beyond 16.00. \nIf the ticket price is a barrier\, please contact hello@junctionpoint.co.uk. URL:https://www.powertochange.org.uk/event/north-east-social-enterprise-day/ LOCATION:The Common Room\, Neville Hall Westgate Road\, Newcastle upon Tyne\, NE1 1SE\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Conference ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.powertochange.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/https___cdn.evbuc_.com_images_833652259_303316392559_1_original.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR