The theme of the conference was ‘The role of culture, creativity and active wellbeing in supporting community cohesion’ with a programme to help members reflect on engaging with communities, working with partners and across systems, to foster cohesion.
Alongside the formal AGM business, there were three keynote speakers, a members showcase, and updates from our sponsors highlighting how their work relates to the conference theme.
Papers from the AGM
You can also view a recording of the AGM here. (39 min 53 secs)
Keynote Speakers
Sunder Katwala, Director, British Future – talked about ‘Connection and community cohesion challenges‘ – how can culture and leisure positively contribute’, drawing on research from the Creating Connections report.
You can view a recording of the session here. (25 min 30 secs)
Sally Lloyd-Evans & Alice Mpofu-Coles, University of Reading Communities – presented on Communities, culture and cohesion: using participatory action research (PAR) to tackle social inequalities in Berkshire.
You can view a recording of the session here. (24 min 50 sec)
Our speakers also took part in a panel discussion on ‘The role of culture, creativity and active wellbeing in supporting community cohesion’ and were joined by Julie Russell in her capacity as convener of the Active Wellbeing Leadership Network.
You can view a recording of the session here. (26 min 34 secs)
Showcase Content
This showcase highlighted how members from four local authorities are engaging with their communities, working with partners and across systems, to help foster cohesion.
Below is a summary of the initiatives featured; you can view the showcase presentations here and a recording of the session here. (41 min 16 secs)
Heritage – The Roman Baths refugee programme in partnership with the Council’s Resettlement Team to break down barriers to heritage and culture by using arts, crafts, food and more. Meliha Hussain-Marchbank, Bath & North East Somerset Council
Libraries – Creation of a network of additional library services in rural areas, after the discontinuation of the mobile library. Felicity Harrison, West Berkshire Council. Separate You Tube video available to view here (4min 55 secs).
Museums – The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge programme that explores the contribution of arts and culture to a sense of belonging, wellbeing, inclusion, and community. Leanne Macdonald, the Beaney House of Art and Knowledge
Culture – Working through Culture Chelmsford the council has been enabling communities to take a central role in cultural decision-making and programming. Marc De’ath, Chelmsford City Council
Sponsor Platform
Jason Watts, Xn Leisure explored how Xn Leisure supports community cohesion through culture, creativity, and physical activity.
Steve Bennett, Playfootball talked about the role of football in supporting community cohesion.
Penny Rinta-Suski, Blake Morgan highlighted how they foster community cohesion with and for staff and partners.
Simon Beer, Bigwave Marketing shared their experience of working in partnership with local authorities and education institutes, and their approach to engaging local businesses to support community cohesion.
You can view a recording of the sponsor platform here. 44 min 04)
