CLOA AGM & Conference 2026

The theme of the conference was ‘Inclusive Growth: harnessing culture, heritage, tourism & wellbeing’ with a programme to help members explore how our services can drive equitable access, strengthen pride in place, and support healthier, more resilient communities.

Alongside the formal AGM business, there were two 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. (36 min 35 secs)

Keynote Speakers

Professor Sir Michael Marmot – talked about reducing health inequalities demands social justice and action across society, addressing the full health gradient and wider life conditions to close the gap. This address aimed to guide members in embedding wellbeing and equity into strategic planning.

You can view a recording of the session here. (26 min)

Professor Daisy Fancourt – drew on her new book Art Cure, which offers evidence‑based argument for the arts as fundamental to health. This address presented arguments from the book for why investing in the arts supports public health outcomes and health economic return on investment.

You can view a recording of the session here. (23 min)

Cllr Julie Jones-Evans and Harman Sagger took part in a panel discussion on Resilient Futures: Leading with Evidence and Partnership, reflecting with CLOA Chair Donna Pentelow on how economic, social and health insights are shaping strategic choices and delivery models.

You can view a recording of the session here. (28 min)

Showcase Content

This showcase highlighted how members from five local authorities are helping ensure the benefits of place are shared fairly through their approaches to culture, heritage, tourism and wellbeing. Below is a summary of the initiatives featured; you can view the showcase presentations here and a recording of the session here. (48 min 45 secs)

Culture Companions – a co‑produced programme using creative and heritage activities to reduce loneliness and improve wellbeing for older residents. Steven Skelly, Barnsley Museums, Barnsley MBC

Children’s Capital of Culture – howRotherham’s programme empowers young people as co‑producers, trainees and cultural leaders, reshaping local pride and opportunity through creativity and play. Leanne Buchan, Rotherham MBC and Young producer Grace Bower

Poppies on the Pier – a community‑led remembrance project that brought thousands together to create the UK’s largest poppy installation, boosting wellbeing, skills and off‑season tourism. Alison Dewey & Katie Young, Southend-on-Sea City Council

Carrow House – has been transformed into an affordable, collaborative home for 25 cultural and VCSE organisations, generating £5m of social value through shared space and partnership working. Clare Hubery, Norwich City Council

Whole system approach to Physical Activity – Oxfordshire’s approach brings the ICB, councils and the VCSE sector together to increase physical activity among residents at highest risk of inactivity and health inequality. Richard Claydon, Active Oxfordshire & Suzi Andrews, Oxfordshire County Council

Sponsor Platform

Steve Bennett, Playfootball talked about how recreational football supports inclusive growth by improving physical and mental wellbeing, building community cohesion, and addressing inequalities in participation.

Vicky Hanks, Blake Morgan outlined how Blake Morgan contributes to inclusive growth through its heritage and values, inclusive and sustainable practices, wellbeing frameworks, and strong community engagement

Andrew Ley, Bigwave Marketing highlighted how Culture, Heritage and Leisure services can close ‘promotional airgaps’ and build an organisation‑wide promotional network.

You can view a recording of the sponsor platform here. (30 min)