Date & Time

Tuesday 26th November, 2024 | 9:45 AM - 15:00pm

Venue

Online CPD Event

Availability

3 Spaces Left

Purchase

Dave Simmons

Company Director of the Housing Mediators

Dave Simmons is the company Director of the Housing Mediators which provides a mediation service focusing on housing and workplace disputes, as well as a training and support service for landlords specialising in effective complaint management. 

He spent 15 years at the Housing Ombudsman Service where he worked as an Adjudicator and Sector Engagement Lead. His achievements included leading on the project to write and publish the first Complaint Handling Code. After leaving the Ombudsman he spent two years as Peabody’s Compliance Operations Manager, where his duties included overseeing compliance with the Ombudsman Service. 

Dave is a long-term associate of HQN and Tpas (Tenant Engagement Experts) and in his various roles he has delivered hundreds of training workshops, forums and webinars to the housing sector covering a breadth of subjects. He has also written dozens of briefings and best practice documents which he currently continues to do in his capacity as HQN’s Complaints Hub Lead.

He is an experienced accredited mediator and has mediated on a wide range of disputes including family, community and workplace. As a Board Trustee of Croydon Community Mediation, he co-produces newsletters which promote learning and knowledge sharing for its small team of community mediators

John Goodwin

Housing Consultant, Trainer and Mediator

Former Compliance & Systemic Lead at the Housing Ombudsman Service

• The role and powers of the Housing Ombudsman Service

• Understanding what the Housing Ombudsman expects of social housing landlords

• The requirements of the Ombudsman’s ‘Complaint Handling Code, including current significant changes to the Code

10:40 am

Group Work: What’s Working Well and Areas For Improvement

• Group discussions about what is working well in complaint handling in your organisation, and what you struggle with

• Feedback from groups and discussion of key themes with trainers

• The trainers will address the feedback from groups and pick up on any questions or areas of uncertainty during the remaining sessions

11:10 am

Resolving Complaints Effectively

• Key requirements and things to get right when looking to resolve complaints effectively, including taking account of vulnerabilities and managing unreasonable behaviour

• Tips for avoiding common pitfalls

• Hear real life examples from the trainers’ experience and from the Housing Ombudsman Service’s complaint investigations

11:40 am

Morning Break

11:55 am

Insurance claims and the Pre-Action Protocol for Housing Conditions

• How should landlords deal with complaints that involve insurance claims, or potential legal action e.g. for disrepair?

• Landlords are often unclear about how to handle these tricky cases. Our trainers will set out the Ombudsman’s guidance and expectations

12:05 pm

Record Keeping

The trainers will highlight areas of good and poor practice, and how to tackle common problem areas, such as records of verbal agreements and missed appointments 

• Learn how to improve responses and receive guidance on the latest requirements and good practice

• Discuss an example of a complaint response letter

Health & Voluntary Sector
£245 + VAT

Date & Time

Wednesday 27 November, 2024
09:30 AM - 16:30 PM

Venue

Online CPD Workshop

Availability

3 Spaces Left

Purchase

• The Public Sector Bodies (Websites and Mobile Applications) Accessibility Regulations 2018 - how did the regulation come about and what it aims to achieve

• Apply the Website Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2

• Outlining who and what falls under the new legislation and who is exempt

• Memorandum of Understanding and how the process of monitoring and enforcement operates

• Getting senior management on board – realising the scale of work involved and prioritisation

  • Prioritisation and risk assessment exercise

  • Budgeting resources and tools to ensure value for money

• Sources for keeping in touch with the latest developments

Ben Watson
Accessibility Consultant
All Able

George Rhodes
Accessibility Consultant
All Able

Publishing the accessibility statement

• Outlining the requirements of an accessibility statement

• Discussion exercise on the purpose of accessibility statements and what other information users might want

Procurement and Suppliers

• What to include in procurement, tenders and contracts

• What to expect from suppliers

• What to do with existing suppliers

3rd Party systems and your responsibilities

• 3rd Party responsibility matrix

• Your responsibilities exercise

Ben Watson
Accessibility Consultant
All Able

George Rhodes
Accessibility Consultant
All Able

1:00 pm

Decide how to check for accessibility problems

Reviewing internal processes and ensuring that all staff involved are effectively trained

Basic checks for accessibility – Where do you need to address the problem and how

• Image alternatives

1.    Video and Audio content

2.    Documents

3.    Websites (intro)

4.    Other comms

Ben Watson
Accessibility Consultant
All Able

2:30 pm

Afternoon Break

Which web content accessibility guidelines do you need to adhere to and understand WCAG 2.2

• Learn about the process of testing sites for accessibility using automatic scanning tools versus an audit

• Live testing exercise

• Understanding accessibility evaluations and testing results

Issue reporting, exclusions and disproportionate burden – what is it and what does it apply to

How diverse user testing can inform accessibility audits and future development plans

Discussing common accessibility issues and how to overcome them

Creating content, including dynamic and visual, with accessibility in mind

Ben Watson
Accessibility Consultant
All Able

George Rhodes
Accessibility Consultant
All Able

3:40pm

Break

3:45 pm

Open Questions

In the final session, we want delegates to be able to ask any questions that they feel we haven’t fully addressed and welcome the discussion of real issues delegates are facing

This is a chance for delegates to get some consultancy time with us and a chance for real expert advice on their real issues

If you have any questions you made a note of during the day because we had to get through a lot, now is the time to ask them!

Ben Watson
Accessibility Consultant
All Able

George Rhodes
Accessibility Consultant
All Able

4:30 pm

Summary and Close

*programme subject to change

Health & Voluntary Sector
£245 + VAT

Public Sector
£345 + VAT

Private Sector
£445 + VAT

Date & Time

Thursday 28th November, 2024
09:00 AM - 16:00 PM

Venue

Online

CPD Certified

Availability and Pricing

Limited Availability

Public Sector: £195 + VAT
Private Sector: £245 + VAT

Purchase

Ian Knowles, Chief Executive Officer at West Lindsey District Council - Confirmed

This keynote session will delve into the intricate dynamics of commercialism within local councils. Attendees will gain a sophisticated understanding of how commercial activities can be strategically utilised to not only generate revenue but also drive innovation, enhance community services and achieve sustainable growth.

• Understand the multifaceted nature of commercialism

• Learn what commercialism means for different councils, from revenue generation to community revitalisation

• Understand why commercialism is essential for modern councils, including financial stability, enhanced service delivery and community development

• Explore the complete commercial lifecycle, including ideation, planning, execution and evaluation of commercial ventures

• Gain insights into successfully launching commercial initiatives 

Vivien Holland, Director at Local Partnerships - Confirmed

10:15 am

UK National Audit Office Keynote - Achieving Value for Money: Insights and Strategies for Local Government Efficiency

This keynote session will address the critical importance of achieving value for money in local government and provide delegates with tangible strategies and recommendations for maximising financial efficiency, exploring the latest audit findings and adopting innovative resource management approaches. This is an essential session for those looking to drive efficiency and accountability in their local authorities.

• Gain insights into the current landscape 

• Learn about the latest audit findings 

• Explore innovative approaches to resource management 

• Discover strategies for enhancing transparency and accountability 

Abdool Kara, Executive Director at National Audit Office - Confirmed

11:00 am

Morning Break

11:15 am

Navigating the Income Generation Policy Landscape

• Examine the comprehensive powers granted to local governments under the Localism Act 2011 and The Local Government Act 2003

• Consider any legal constraints that local authorities may face when diversifying their income sources

Clare Hardy, Partner, Geldards LLP - Confirmed

12:00 pm

Panel Discussion - Commercial Ventures and Partnerships: Driving Income through Collaboration

This session will cover:

• Learn how to best mitigate risks associated with commercial activity and maximise the rewards of commercialism

• Understand the reputational and financial risks associated with income generation initiatives

• Outline how you can be risk aware but not risk averse in considering new opportunities that arise or innovative ideas being proposed

• Explore what is meant by good governance and scrutiny - to improve decision making by local authorities

Vivien Holland, Director at Local Partnership - Confirmed

Daniel Partridge, Director at Partnering Regeneration Development Ltd – Confirmed

Rick Lawrence, Partnership Director at London and Continental Railways (LCR) – Confirmed

Justin Galliford, CEO at Norse Group  – Confirmed

2:00 pm

Discussion Workshop - Leveraging Assets for Revenue: Maximising the Value of Public Assets

By strategically utilising public assets, councils can unlock significant financial potential, driving economic growth and enhancing public welfare. This proactive approach is crucial for maintaining resilience and delivering high-quality services in the face of budget constraints.

Discussion points include:

• Outline the economic and strategic benefits of leveraging public assets

• Explore strategies for effectively identifying underutilised assets

• Discuss how to develop and implement strategic asset management plans

• Gain innovative approaches to developing and commercialising public assets

Mark Peace, Head of Public Sector Partnerships at LCP Group – Confirmed

Sam Veal, Board Director, Chair of the Board of Futures Living Ltd and Chair of the Asset Investment Committee - Confirmed

Pat Hayes, Executive Director of Regeneration, Housing & Environment at Slough Borough Council – Confirmed

2:45 pm

Enhancing Scrutiny and Governance in Income Generation for Local Authorities

As local authorities face economic uncertainty and major changes, responsive public services are crucial. This case study discusses the critical role of good governance and scrutiny in maintaining public trust and ensuring transparent, accountable decision-making. In this case study session, learn best practices for embedding transparency, accountability and governance into your income generation initiatives.

Discussion points include:

• Outline successful strategies for ensuring robust oversight and accountability

• Explore real-life examples of effective governance frameworks and their implementation

• Gain tangible methods for fostering a culture of transparency and accountability

Mike Wistow, Director at Aegir Consulting Limited - Confirmed

3:15 pm

Case Study – Unlocking a Commercial Culture: Wealden District Council

Facing financial pressures, Wealden District Council developed a refined commercial agenda to generate additional income. Their "double-lock" principle ensures projects provide commercial returns and deliver public value.

• Learn about the council's commitment to a commercially minded and innovative approach, leading to success and improved services

• Discover how the "Leading Wealden Forward" initiative shifted the organisational mindset, emphasising commercial acumen and skills

Trevor Scott, Chief Executive at Wealden District Council – Confirmed

4:00 pm

Closing Remarks

Public Sector
£195 + VAT

Private Sector
£245 + VAT

Date & Time

Tuesday 3rd December, 2024
09:30 AM - 16:00 PM

Venue

Online

CPD Certified

Availability

3 Spaces Left

Purchase

Paul is a Chartered Environmental Health Practitioner with 20 years of experience in Environmental Health and Housing Enforcement. He works in local government and has lectured in Environmental Health at Cardiff Metropolitan University and Middlesex University.  He now supervises Public Health students at the University of Greenwich.  

 Paul authored Selective Licensing: The Basis for a Collaborative Approach to Addressing Health Inequalities. The book examines the impact of licensing and regulatory enforcement. He also contributed a chapter on enforcement in Regulating the Privately Rented Housing Sector: Evidence into Practice a book that brings together academics and practicing experts to guide professionals in housing regulation and implementation.

 Paul’s next book Private Sector Housing and Health: Evaluating the effectiveness of regulation intended to protect the health of tenants is available for pre-order from Routledge publications on the 29th May and examines the effectiveness of housing enforcement and tenant protection in the private rented sector and also looks at the proposed changes to be bought about by the Renters (Reform) Bill and the feasibility of their implementation.   

Paul Oatt
Chartered Environmental Health Practitioner

• Understand the potential impact of the Renters’ Rights Bill

• Understand the legislations potential implications for future enforcement

• Gain an overview of the rogue landlord legislation landscape: such as the Housing and Planning Act 2016

• Learn about the potential application of the Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector.

Paul Oatt
Chartered Environmental Health Practitioner

10:45 am

Break

11:00 am

Identifying Rogue Landlords

• Gain techniques to identify rogue landlords

• Learn how to train staff to detect criminal activity

• Receive advice on using innovative ways to identify rogue landlords with limited resources

Paul Oatt
Chartered Environmental Health Practitioner

12:00 pm

Utilise and Share Data to Reduce Rogue Landlords

• Learn how to efficiently collect data on rogue landlords in your area

• Use data to identify and crackdown on the criminal networks of rogue landlords

• Effectively share data with other organisations to help reduce the number of rogue landlords

Paul Oatt
Chartered Environmental Health Practitioner

• Understand and utilise your prosecution powers against rogue landlords

• Deploy a more effective landlord licensing scheme to help deter rogue landlords

• Review best practice enforcement examples

Adrian Chowns
Head of Safer Housing and Communities, Coventry City Council - CONFIRMED

2:45 pm

Break

3:00 pm

Workshop: Develop a Rogue Landlord Reduction Plan

• Discuss in groups and with the trainer, how to tackle rogue landlords

• Learn how to support private tenants when dealing with rogue landlords

• Effectively engage with tenants to help reduce criminal activity

• Identify innovative ways to tackle rogue landlords, with a limited workforce

• Develop more effective services to help tenants

• Design a toolkit to reduce the number of rogue landlords

• Create an action plan to identify and reduce rogue landlords

Paul Oatt
Chartered Environmental Health Practitioner

4:00 pm

Training Close

Programme subject to change

Date & Time

Thursday 5th December, 2024
9:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Venue

Online

CPD Certified

Availability

4 Spaces left

Purchase

• How are documents covered in the legislation

• Basic principles of creating accessible documents

• Why documents are the core of accessible content design

Ben Watson
Accessibility Consultant
All Able

George Rhodes
Accessibility Consultant
All Able

As part of the checking for accessibility session, attendees will be asked to suggest documents that we can review as a group. This can be done either in advance of the day or as the discussion unfolds.

· Understanding different document platforms

· Gain techniques for checking for accessibility

· Microsoft Accessibility Checker

· Live document walkthroughs

· Adobe Pro and making accessible PDFs.

Ben Watson
Accessibility Consultant
All Able

George Rhodes
Accessibility Consultant
All Able

12:30 pm

Lunch Break

• What is plain English?

• Plain English and accessibility

• How to write in plain English: core principles

Ben Watson
Accessibility Consultant
All Able

George Rhodes
Accessibility Consultant
All Able

2:00 pm

Session 4: Writing in Plain English (Part 2)

• Group exercise: turning text into plain English

• Exploring the benefit of plain English for your organisation

• Plain English toolkit

Ben Watson
Accessibility Consultant
All Able

George Rhodes
Accessibility Consultant
All Able

2:50 pm

Afternoon Break

• Technologies that can help create and use accessible documents

• Creating accessible templates

Ben Watson
Accessibility Consultant
All Able

George Rhodes
Accessibility Consultant
All Able

3:30 pm

Session 6: Open Q&A

In this session you will have the opportunity to ask our experts all your accessibility questions, revisiting key sessions from the training and gaining key insights into how you can put what you’ve learned into practice.

Ben Watson
Accessibility Consultant
All Able

George Rhodes
Accessibility Consultant
All Able

4:30 pm

Training Close

*programme subject to change

Public Sector
£345 + VAT

Private Sector
£445 + VAT

Date & Time

Tuesday 21st January, 2025 09:30 AM - 15:30 PM

Venue

Online via Zoom

CPD Certified

Availability

Limited Spaces

Purchase

• Opportunity to open the session, clarify ways of working and enable introductions

This session will provide a legal update on fire safety law including:

• The Fire Safety Act 2021

• The Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022

• Building Safety Act 2022

Saba Naqshbandi, Barrister at Three Raymond Buildings - Invited

11:00 am

Defining Accountability in the Housing Sector: Roles, Responsibilities and Accreditation for Fire Safety

• Determining primary responsibility for new build and commissioned projects

• Establishing who ensures that the building remains fit for purpose throughout its lifecycle

• Ensuring competence and qualifications of all parties involved

• Working with other agencies, organisations and residents to establish shared responsibility

• Clarifying the overlap in responsibilities – who holds the responsibility for making sure that buildings are safe

• Ensuring comprehensive fire safety and risk assessment training for all parties involved

11:30 am

Morning Break

• Outlining the development and impact of the #GetFireSmart Campaign

• Examining the channels used to keep people aware of fire safety, through direct engagement, web, social media, posters and resident letters

• Exploring the impact of working in partnership with the Fire Service, including on evacuation exercises and to develop an awareness-raising film

• Sharing top tips for effective communication with residents, especially in relation to remedial fire safety work projects

12:30 pm

Lunch

1:30 pm

Implementing Innovative Approaches To Building and Fire Safety

• Learn how to develop innovative approaches to building fire and safety

• In groups, discuss how these approaches can be implemented within your organisation

2:00 pm

Building an Efficient and Effective Fire Safety Programme in Your Organisation

Work with the trainer to develop an effective, comprehensive plan to improve fire safety in your organisation

• Reviewing the existing organisational standards, identifying areas of weakness and building on good practice

• Ensuring compliance, inspection and accreditation and taking into account budgetary constraints

• Explore the possibility of including second staircases for new builds

• Building an efficient fire safety programme – with particular emphasis on high rise buildings

• Discussing how you can future-proof projects by ensuring that the products you invest in are in accordance with standards and are marketed in relation to building regulations

• Learn how design and construction management fits into fire safety

• Comply with the new fire safety guidelines (issued in October 2023)

3:30 pm

Training Close

*Programme subject to change

Private Sector

£445 + VAT

Date & Time

Thursday 23rd January 2024
09:30 AM - 3:15 PM

Venue

Online CPD Event

Availability

Available

Purchase

• House keeping

• Introductions

• Objectives and meeting your learning needs

• What is trauma?

• Understand complex trauma using recognised theories

• Explore the impact of trauma on development and behaviour

10:45 am

Impact on Services and Staff     

• Understand how these behaviours might challenge engagement and service delivery

• Consider the impact on staff of working with people who have experienced trauma

• Know how to recognise and reduce vicarious (secondary) trauma

11:30 am

Trauma Informed Practice

• Understand the key principles of trauma informed practice

• Consider the importance of all staff – from frontline practitioners to senior leaders – having a good understanding of trauma and what this means for you in practice

• Understand what the government’s definition of trauma informed practice means and how this relates to your organisation

12:15 pm

Recovery and the Role of Psychologically Informed Environments (PIE)  

• Consider the impact of your organisational culture in relation to being trauma informed

• Prioritising the wellbeing of your workforce to ensure staff have the capacity and support to maintain their resilience and wellbeing whilst delivering trauma informed services

• Adapting your processes and communication approaches to be more trauma informed

12:45 pm

Lunch Break

1:45 pm

Trauma Informed Practice ‘What Works’

• Groupwork Activity Session 1: unique opportunity to explore and learn from colleagues by sharing experiences of implementing and embedding trauma informed practice in order to consider what works and identify areas for improvement

• Groupwork Activity Session 2: delegates will be encouraged to share how they will transfer their learning into practice by considering the next steps for them and their organisation in relation to developing trauma informed practice

2:45 pm

Next Steps

• Using the 6 Principles of Trauma Informed practice to assess your team or organisation

• Signposting to trauma informed practice resources

• Personal action Planning

3:00 PM

Final Q&A

3:15 PM

Training Close

*Programme subject to change

Health & Voluntary Sector
£245 + VAT

Public Sector
£345 + VAT

Private Sector
£445 + VAT

Date & Time

Tuesday 28th January, 2025
09:30 AM - 16:00 PM

Venue

Online CPD Workshop via Zoom

Availability

Limited Availability

Purchase

• Overview of ASB and its impact on individuals and communities

• Understand the types and categories of ASB

• Explore the multi-faceted causes of ASB

• Define "complex individuals" and “complex cases” and discuss how these complexities influence ASB behaviour

10:45 am

Legal Framework and Ethical Considerations

• Outline the legal powers for managing ASB: Community Protection Notices (CPNs), Injunctions and other enforcement options

• Understand the legal safeguards for individuals with mental health conditions

• Discuss how to protect vulnerable individuals while maintaining community safety

• Explore best practices for using enforcement measures appropriately, escalating only when necessary 

Kuljit Bhogal, Public Law Barrister at Cornerstone Barristers – Invited

11:30 am

Break

11:45 am

Exploring the Connection Between Mental Health and ASB

• Explore patterns in ASB linked to mental health conditions

• Learn how symptoms of mental illness  can lead to ASB

• Understand the role of trauma and adverse life experiences in shaping ASB

• Outline practical strategies for addressing ASB in individuals with mental health conditions

• Gain trauma-informed approaches for addressing ASB in individuals

Charlie Hamilton Kay, Deputy CEO ASB Help - Invited

12:30 pm

Balancing Support and Enforcement

• Outline key principles: Care vs. control, accountability vs. compassion

• Learn to effectively identify when to prioritise support or escalate enforcement

• Explore early intervention strategies to reduce the need for enforcement

• Reflect on the ethical challenges involved in balancing support and enforcement

David Parsons, ASB and Vulnerability Manager at Torbay Council – invited

1:15 pm

Lunch

2:15 pm

Multi-disciplinary Solutions for ASB

• Understand the roles of various professionals in ASB cases

• Explore the importance of sharing information, consistent communication, and creating a shared action plan.

• Gain effective tools to facilitate multi-disciplinary approaches

• Learn how to coordinate support and enforcement in a structured way

3:00 pm

Discussion: Engaging Communities, Challenges and Practical Applications

• Discuss how to better engage the individuals and the communities you serve

• Reflect on the challenges of balancing support and enforcement and discuss practical applications moving forward

• Apply the events learnings into your day-to-day practice

4:00 pm

Final Q&A and Closing Remarks

Health & Voluntary Sector

£245 + VAT

Public Sector

£345 + VAT

Date & Time

Tuesday 28th January, 2025 09:30 AM - 15:15 PM

Venue

Online

CPD Certified

Availability

Available

Registration

Explore the benefits of building partnerships with people and communities:

• Why we need to engage and work in partnership

• Levels of engagement and participation

Don Redding, Patient Engagement Expert – CONFIRMED

10:15 am

Practical Guidance on Working in Partnership with People and Communities

• Learn the key principles for working with people and communities

• Finding the right methods and approach, exploring different ways of working in collaboration and developing long lasting relationships with people and communities

• How to best utilise insights from service users, ensuring change is based on the needs and experiences of local populations

• Collaborative working with local authorities, social care providers, voluntary, and community sectors to signpost community need

Don Redding, Patient Engagement Expert – CONFIRMED

11:10 am

Morning Break

11:25 am

Discussion Session: Evaluating Approaches to Engagement

This session explores ideas that can engage patients, families, and carers in their own health and wellbeing, and provides an opportunity to consider other innovative strategies.

Discuss with peers and the expert trainer key approaches to engagement, including:

• Shared decision making

• Personalised care and support planning

• Social prescribing

• Self-management

• Education and individual information-sharing with patients, carers, and families

Don Redding, Patient Engagement Expert – CONFIRMED

11:50 am

Workshop: Effectively Hearing and Listening to ‘Missing Voices’

• Explore the barriers to engagement and the impact of missing voices

• How to better listen and engage with the unique needs of diverse communities

• Strategies for early engagement, ensuring marginalised groups understand how their engagement, experience, and contributions can make a difference

• Understand how all staff can engage with ethnically diverse communities in an equitable and inclusive way

1:50 pm

Workshop: Developing Patient Leadership Capability

• Breaking down learnings and recommendations from the ‘NHS Building Blocks to Developing Patient Leadership’ guidance, comparing this against your current strategy 

• What does strong, collaborative working with patient leaders to influence decision making at a strategic level look like?

• The importance of listening to patient stories

• Advice on building trusted and meaningful relationships with patient leaders and how to invest your time and resources efficiently

Don Redding, Patient Engagement Expert – CONFIRMED

• Looking at Co-production from the patient perspective –

• What is co-production is?

• What are the considerations and challenges from a patient angle?

Jessica Mansel, Senior Engagement Officer, MSS Society  – Invited

3:20 pm

Summary and Key Takeaways

In this final interactive session, our expert trainer will summarise the sessions, helping you recap on all you have learnt through the day, and ensuring tangible takeaways for you to implement in your healthcare service. You will have the opportunity to ask any final questions and share comments, as well as determine your next steps.

3:40 pm

Training Close

Health & Social Care
£245 + VAT

Date & Time

Thursday 30th January, 2025

9:30 AM - 3:30 PM

Venue

Online - Accessible

CPD Certified

Availability and Pricing

Available

Voluntary and Third Sector: £195 + VAT
Public and Private Sector: £245 + VAT

Registration

09:30 am

Chair’s Welcome Address and Setting Your Objectives

Ruth Leonard, Chair, Association of Volunteer Managers (AVM),  Co-chair Vision for Volunteering - Confirmed

09:45 am

DCMS Keynote: Empowering Communities through Volunteering

During this keynote session, Shaun Delaney from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) will explore innovative strategies for empowering communities through volunteering. Delve into current government initiatives and discuss recent policy developments impacting the third sector, including the role of digital technology in volunteer engagement and the implementation of the Civil Society Strategy. This session is an opportunity to interact and engage with the DCMS agenda and discuss what the new government may mean for your organisation.

• Explore the shift toward hyper-local volunteerism, where communities directly shape and control volunteer projects to address their unique challenges

• Discuss recent government policies focused on community empowerment and local autonomy, such as place-based funding and support for grassroots organisations

• Discuss how communities can be better empowered to make their own decisions on needs and delivery through volunteering

• Explore what resources and support communities need to build a volunteer infrastructure that meets local needs

• Understand how government and charities help facilitate and coordinate ground-level and informal social action programmes

Shaun Delaney, Head of Volunteering Strategy, DCMS – Confirmed  

10:30 am

NCVO Keynote: The Latest Research and Insights in Volunteering 

This keynote session will provide a focused analysis of the latest research on the state of volunteering in the UK, with a particular emphasis on innovative models such as digital volunteering. Drawing on fresh data and insights from a new 2025 NCVO report, examine how organisations can adapt to current trends by making volunteer roles more flexible, inclusive and accessible.

• Deep-dive into fresh research on the state of the volunteering

• Explore new models of volunteering or new approaches to digital volunteering

Saskia Konynenburg, Director of Strategic Communications and Insight, NCVO – Invited

• Understand the largest motivators for volunteers and what makes volunteer opportunities stand out in a landscape of increased competition

• Examine new approaches to volunteer retention and how expectations on the volunteer experience are evolving

• Explore how volunteers interact organisations and discover innovative strategies to enhance outreach efforts for greater engagement

• Outline how to increase and diversify the volunteer base through targeted recruitment

• Discuss the importance of recognition, rewards and creating a sense of purpose and value in retaining volunteers

Lucia Ciolanel, Volunteer Engagement Manager, Asthma + Lung UK – Confirmed

Melanie Price, Head of Volunteering at the British Red Cross and an NHS Volunteer – Confirmed

Emily Hughes, Head of Volunteering, Girlguiding UK – Confirmed

Brian Reeves, Head of Volunteer Experience at RSPCA – Confirmed

12:15 pm

Royal Voluntary Service Case Study: Safeguarding and Supporting Volunteers

• Discuss what safeguarding means in the context of volunteering

• Highlight the need for a balanced approach that ensures volunteers feel supported while maintaining robust safeguarding standards

• Outline the key safeguards organisations should have in place to protect volunteers

• Discuss how organisations can create a culture where volunteers feel comfortable raising concerns about safeguarding or wellbeing

• Understand how to recognise and address volunteer burnout, vulnerability and challenges with appropriate support

Dave Stott, Assistant Director of Volunteering and Safeguarding, Royal Voluntary Service – Confirmed

2:00 pm

Digital Transformation and Volunteering: Embracing Technology for the Future of Volunteering

• Understand how digital transformation is reshaping the volunteering landscape

• Discuss the benefits and potential challenges of integrating digital technology into volunteer management

• Explore real-world examples of how organisations have successfully implemented digital strategies to revolutionise their volunteer programs

• Gain insights into the tools and technologies available to enhance volunteer recruitment, engagement, and management

• Understand the risks and opportunities AI presents to volunteer management and how to utilise it to streamline volunteer processes

Paul Remic, Head of Product (People Services), British Red Cross - Confirmed

Rob Jackson, Volunteering Consultant – Invited

Chris Wade. Chartered FCIPD, Managing Director at Time for Impact, Charity Trustee  – Invited

2:45 pm

Fostering Inclusivity and Diversity in Volunteer Programs

• Discuss how to break down barriers to volunteering and how to reach underrepresented groups

• Explore targeted programs that address barriers to participation, such as economic inequality and lack of digital access

• Understand how to build inclusive onboarding, training and management processes

• Discuss how to ensure accessibility and fairness in volunteering opportunities

• Explore practical and cultural outcomes for an individual and how all engagement points can be enhanced to drive inclusion

• Examine organisational culture and how you can explore your inclusion journey to broaden access

Jo Keller, Head of Volunteering at RNIB – Confirmed

Liz Wigelsworth, Head of Volunteering at Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland - Confirmed

Kishma Smithurst, Volunteering Manager at the Wellcome Trust - Confirmed

Glenda Bonde, Director of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, Terrence Higgins Trust – Invited

Gwyneth Thomas, Head of Volunteering, Alzheimer's Society – Invited

3:30 pm

Chair’s Closing Remarks and Key Takeaways

Voluntary & 3rd Sector
£195 + VAT

Public & Private Sector
£245 + VAT

Date & Time

Thursday 6th February, 2025
9:25 AM - 2:30 PM

Venue

Online

CPD Certified

Availability

Available

Purchase

Professor Khawar Hameed

Managing Director
Digital Advantage

• Explore the challenges that arise for people in digital change

• Understand the role of digital champions in supporting digital change: the role, responsibilities and characteristics

• Outline the meaning of digital inclusion and exclusion

• Gain effective strategies and practice for enhancing digital adoption

• Identify common barriers to digital adoption and how to address them

• Understand the importance of Digital Champions in combatting digital exclusion

11:15 am

Break

12:00 pm

Developing Digital Skills

• Understand levels of digital skills and capabilities

• Explore digital skills frameworks

• Gain techniques for motivating and encouraging reluctant users

• Gain effective strategies and methods for embedding effective digital learning and supporting learners

12:15 pm

Lunch

1:15 pm

Workshop: Developing an Effective Digital Champion Action Plan

• Consider individuals needs and how their disabilities or characteristics may affect the support that you provide

• Share techniques for motivating and encouraging reluctant users

• Explore successful strategies for overcoming digital resistance

2:15 pm

Closing Remarks and Q&A

2:30 pm

Programme Close

Health & Voluntary Sector
£245 + VAT

Public Sector
£345 + VAT

Date & Time

Tuesday 11th February, 2025
9:30 AM - 4:15 PM

Venue

Online

CPD Certified

Availability

Available

Purchase

Eileen is a popular trainer with over 43 years’ experience in social rented housing. She worked for Glasgow District Council from 1979 until 1992 as a housing officer, a repairs officer and a repairs manager. She began training for the Chartered Institute of Housing in 1987 and quickly became a sought-after trainer due to her depth of knowledge and her engaging style. She left GDC in 1992 and has been a freelance trainer ever since.

She has a particular interest in dampness and condensation and has been used as an expert witness on several occasions.

• Deep dive into Awaab’s law and the impact it has on your organisation

• Learn how to adapt to the stricter deadlines and timescales

• Review the Regulator of Social Housing “Damp and mould in social housing - learning the lessons” report

• Gain a better understanding of the Housing Ombudsman ‘Spotlight on damp and mould – It’s not lifestyle’ 2021 report

10:45 am

Morning Break

11:00 am

Identifying and Quickly Responding to Cases of Damp and Mould

• Gain more effective techniques at identifying damp and mould

• Respond more rapidly to urgent cases of damp and mould

• Streamline processes to improve response rates

• Improve policies to enhance the timescales for response

• Develop more effective reporting and recording complaints procedures

• Improve policies to enhance the timescales for response

• Work to specific response times and with clear key performance indicators

• Learn how to improve your reporting to governing bodies

2:00 pm

Improving Your Data and Stock

• Improve how you collect and manage your data

• Learn how to carry out stock condition surveys

• Display data to governing bodies

2:45 pm

Break

3:00 pm

Workshop: Develop a Reducing Damp and Mould Action Plan

In this session, you will review the day’s learning and work in groups to develop an action plan to help you meet legislative requirements for reducing damp and mould for your tenants.

• Develop techniques and tools to reduce mould

• Review and improve your current processes

• Learn how to train staff to be better and quicker at identifying and reducing damp and mould

• Take back a reducing damp and mould action plan to your organisation

Private Sector

£345 + VAT

Date & Time

Thursday 13th February 2025,
9:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Venue

Online

CPD Certified

Availability

Available

Purchase

Chris Grose

Founder

Chris Grose Training and Consultancy

Chris Grose
Founder
Chris Grose Training and Consultancy

This session is highly interactive and will involve a series of activities and discussions about the practical elements of opening a case effectively. We’ll explore:

• Case management principles

• Risk Management

• Attention to detail

• Types of ASB

• Unconscious Bias

• What questions to ask

• How to ask the questions

• How to manage expectations

• The variety of interview techniques which can be applied

Chris Grose
Founder
Chris Grose Training and Consultancy

This session will focus on using problem solving techniques to investigate cases thoroughly and developing suitable action plans tailored to addressing the anti-social behaviour.

We’ll be using some case studies to develop action plans and exploring the different options available. Working in groups, participants will be trying out their new skills to obtain information from other delegates who have witnessed ASB from the morning session activities.

Chris Grose
Founder
Chris Grose Training and Consultancy

1:00 pm

Lunch Break

1:45 pm

Session 3: Effective Investigation

This session will give plenty of opportunity for debate, where we explore the variety of ways to contact the other party, deal with allegations effectively and help participants to understand the power of effective communication.

We’ll be using a case study to discuss the most effective ways to communicate with people being accused of ASB, how to manage counter allegations and exploring the investigative options at our disposal.

Chris Grose
Founder
Chris Grose Training and Consultancy

This session will provide useful insight to the dynamics of a perpetrator challenge interview and will explore all there is to know to stay in control.

From where the interview takes place, how it works and what is said – you will leave this session with some new ideas in how to manage these tricky situations.

Chris Grose
Founder
Chris Grose Training and Consultancy

3:30 pm

Session 5: Attention to Detail

We finish the day with a 30 min interactive activity based on the importance of attention to detail – we can’t give too much away, so you’ll have to sign up to find out!

Chris Grose
Founder
Chris Grose Training and Consultancy

4:00 pm

Trainer's Evaluation and Close

Chris Grose
Founder
Chris Grose Training and Consultancy

Health & Voluntary Sector
£245 + VAT

Date & Time

Wednesday 26th February 2025, 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Venue

Online CPD Event

Availability

Available

Purchase

• Explore the definition and various types of devolution

• Understand the rationale for devolving power

• Outline the economic and social impacts of devolution

• Outline the legal and institutional frameworks supporting devolution

10:45 am

Exploring Approaches to Greater Fiscal Devolution

• Explore various fiscal devolution approaches

• Outline how to ensure fiscal accountability in devolved systems

• Discuss the challenges and opportunities in ensuring fiscal autonomy

• Understand how to manage local government capacity for financial independence

• Explore innovative taxation models and non-tax revenue sources

• Outline best practices for increasing revenue collection

11:45 am

Ensuring Transparency, Autonomy and Accountability

• Examine how devolution can strengthen local governance

• Discuss strategies for maintaining accountability while fostering local autonomy

• Explore transparency and accountability mechanisms

• Outline how to strengthen citizen participation and local oversight

12:30 pm

Lunch

• Explore how to effectively apply the benefits of devolution to improve public services

• Outline the essential principles of policy design within a devolved framework

• Discuss how to better engage communities in local decision-making

• Outline local implementation strategies and best practices from local government initiatives

• Outline strategies for delivering services effectively

• Gain a consolidated approach to ensure funds have greater impact on your society

2:15 pm

Design Principles for Effective Governance

• Explore the key principles behind designing effective governance structures

• Examine how to create a governance framework that enhances efficiency

• Discuss how to effectively build capacity in local institutions

• Outline the role of leadership in effective governance

3:00 pm

Monitoring and Evaluating Devolution: Ensuring Continuous Improvement

• Explore various monitoring frameworks for devolved systems

• Gain effective tools for evaluating success and identifying challenges

• Outline best practices for assessing the effectiveness of devolved systems

• Understand how to ensure continuous improvement in governanc

3:45 pm

Workshop: Developing a Localised Devolution Strategy

This interactive workshop aims to apply the concepts of devolution learned throughout the day by guiding participants through the process of creating a tailored devolution action plan for their respective communities or regions. The focus will be on practical solutions that enhance local governance, service delivery, and accountability.

• Identify key local governance challenges that can be addressed through devolution

• Develop a practical devolution strategy focused on improving public services, enhancing community participation, and ensuring transparency

• Create an actionable implementation plan for strengthening fiscal autonomy, governance structures, and accountability measures at your local level

4:30 pm

Closing Remarks and Q&A

Private Sector
£445 + VAT

Date & Time

Thursday 27th February, 2025 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Venue

Online - Accessible

CPD Certified

Availability & Pricing

Public Sector: £195 + VAT
Private Sector: £245 + VAT

Registration

9:45 am

Chair’s Welcome Address 

Riikka Hofmann, University Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Education, University of Cambridge - Invited

The International Framework: Good Governance in the Public Sector provides a framework that encourages improved service delivery and accountability. This session will focus on implementing the Framework: 

• Highlight the importance of openness and effective stakeholder engagement to ensure that public sector entities are acting for the public good 

• Gain best practice for defining and planning sustainable long-term outcomes in terms of economic, social, and environmental benefits 

• Receive insights into how to implement transparency, reporting and audit practices that deliver effective accountability 

• Examine the role of internal capacity building to meet changing needs over time 

• Address the need for public sector entities to interpret the principles of the Framework in line with specific legislative requirements 

This session will include time for delegate questions and answers.  

Diana Melville, Governance Advisor, CIPFA – Confirmed

10:45 am

The Institute of Leadership Keynote - Leadership in a Changing Public Sector: Navigating Complexities for Effective Governance

• Discuss how public sector leaders can leverage adaptive leadership for institutional resilience

• Introduce frameworks and tools for reinforcing ethical decision-making processes in the public sector

• Discuss the major challenges that are currently impacting public governance, including rapid technological changes and increasing public expectations for transparency and accountability

• Explore the role of visionary leadership in anticipating future governance challenges
  
  John Mark-Williams, CEO, Institute of Leadership – Confirmed

11:45 am

Panel Discussion: Empowering Systems Change to Increase Organisational Agility and Improve Outcomes 

This panel will explore how systemic change can strengthen organisational agility and resilience, driving better outcomes in the public sector. Discuss strategies for transforming systems, the importance of cross-organisational relationships and how collaborative networks can help organisations navigate uncertainty and adapt to evolving challenges.

• Reimagine systems change and identify key areas within public sector systems that need transformation to support better decision-making, flexibility and adaptability.

• Consider what systems change should look like, and the role it plays in improving outcomes through increased resilience and agility 

• Understand the impact of strong cross-organisational relationships on organisational resilience

• Outline key strategies for cultivating and maintaining productive partnerships across departments, agencies, and sectors

• Discuss how collaborative networks can streamline resources, reduce inefficiencies and provide shared solutions during times of crisis or uncertainty

Ed Hammond, Interim Chief Executive, Centre for Governance and Scrutiny – Invited

Ian Trenholm, Chief Executive, Care Quality Commission – Invited

Tracie Jolliff, Head of Inclusive System Development, NHS England & Improvement and Head of Inclusion and System Leadership, NHS Leadership Academy - Invited

12:30 pm

Panel Discussion: Embedding Strong Systems Leadership into Public Sector Organisations

This session will discuss and explore the importance of effective and robust leadership within the public sector and share the best ways to navigate the complexities of modern governance.

• Discuss the critical importance of resilience and strategic planning in leadership development

• Highlight how fostering strong cross-organisational relationships can enhance resilience

• Delve into how the public sector leaders can address the unique challenges posed by uncertainty, helping leaders build the skills needed to thrive in unpredictable environment

• Discuss how leaders can take a proactive approach to embedding high standards and ethics into their organisations

• Share insights into building a culture of constructive challenge which is essential for innovation and improvement in the public sector

This session will include time for delegate questions and answers.

Natalie Golding, Director, National Leadership Centre – Invited

Susan Acland-Hood, Permanent Secretary, Department for Education – Invited

Neil (Nilesh) Sachdev MBE,MBA, Non Executive Chair and NED – Invited

2:15 pm

Case Study: Empowering Local Government Leadership for Community Resilience

This session addresses innovative public sector leadership approaches for today’s climate. Participants will explore how resilience, community collaboration, compassion, and mobilization can redefine effective leadership.

• Share how leaders can balance efficiency with resilience, enabling public bodies to adapt and withstand ongoing challenges

• Explore how to engage local communities as vital partners, embarking on a community-aligned approach to leadership

• Discuss how to cultivate an empathetic, adaptable leadership style to support both employees and communities

• Outline how to successfully transition from traditional management to activating and empowering community-driven solutions

Ian Knowles, Chief Executive, West Lindsey District Council - Invited

2:45 pm

Panel Discussion: Enhancing Accountability and Transparency in Public Sector Governance

This panel will dive deep into how public sector organisations can unlock the full potential of accountability and transparency to create more efficient, ethical, and resilient institutions. Panelists will share innovative strategies and explore real-world solutions to modern governance challenges, demonstrating how integrity and partnership can drive impactful service delivery and leadership growth.

• Discuss critical role that transparency plays in strengthening trust between organisations and the public

• Share mechanisms for enforcing accountability and responsibility

• Explore public-private partnerships for enhanced service delivery

• Outline how to promote integrity and ethics in decision-making

• Discuss ways of enhancing leadership resilience in public sector organisations

Loretta Hoy, Growth Manager, Essex County Council – Confirmed

Emma Congreve, Deputy Director, Fraser Allander Institute – Confirmed

Dewi Knight, Director, PolicyWISE – Invited

3:30 pm

The Future of Public Sector Governance: What Does Good Governance Look Like Across the Next Decade?

The National Commission on the Future of Good Governance is examining how good governance can impact the development and sustainability of the public sector over the next decade, and how to achieve this by 2030. This session will focus on enabling the delivery of effective and sustainable public services through good governance: 

• Providing an overview of the progress of the Commission so far 

• Highlighting how trends including digital transformation, the changing face of work, and localism impact on public sector governance 

• Examining the challenges facing the public sector, including multi-agency integration, access to data, and long-term planning 

• Sharing how governance practices are expected to change to address these challenges and adapt according to changing political expectations 

• Discuss emerging leadership models for the future of governance

This session will include time for delegate questions and answers. 

Mark Butler, Convenor, National Commission on The Future of Governance in the Public Sector  - Invited

4:00 pm

Chair’s Close

Riikka Hofmann, University Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Education, University of Cambridge

*programme subject to change

Public Sector
£195 + VAT

Private Sector
£245 + VAT