Growing local economies: strategies for sustainable growth

Local initiatives are pivotal in driving economic development and building community wealth. In this dynamic webinar, inspired by the Institute of Economic Development’s “Grow Local, Grow National” manifesto and hosted by the Social Value Engine, we delve into the significant impact of social value and localised focus on economic growth.  

We aim to provide a comprehensive view, drawing insights from diverse regions across the UK. Join us as we showcase how targeted local actions can lead to substantial economic transformation and provide practical advice on monitoring and quantifying progress. 

Webinar Overview: 

1. Nurturing sustainable growth through local initiatives 

• Explore how community efforts, attuned to local needs and resources, contribute to sustainable economic development. 
• Learn from successful case studies where community-driven initiatives have created a lasting impact. 
  
  

2. Outcomes, not outputs: the importance of social value in driving social outcomes 

• Understand the importance of social value in shaping economic outcomes. 
• Explore how evidence-based decision-making can lead to positive change at both the micro and macro levels. 
• Learn strategies to evidence and improve social return on investment and empower community networks, leveraging insights from the Social Value Engine. 
   

3. The ripple effect of economic development 

• Learn about the interconnectedness of local actions and broader economic health. 
• Discover how the UN sustainability goals relate to local economies and community wealth. 
   

4. Audience engagement and Q&A 

• Participate in live discussions with experts in social value and economic development. 
• Share your experiences, ask questions, and contribute to the dialogue. 
• Leave with actionable takeaways to apply in your local authority or supporting organisation. 

Speakers:

Lucinda Yeadon, Social Impact Manager. 

Lucinda has been at property investment company, CEG since 2018 and leads the company’s social impact programme. Within this role she has a responsibility to work with residents, partners and stakeholders to ensure that key developments engage with the local community and that benefits are felt as widely as possible. As part of this role she is particularly interested in supporting young people to access training, apprenticeships and employment opportunities through CEG’s Forging Futures Campus. Through these programmes CEG has generated over £11 million of Social Value in the Leeds area.

Prior to working for CEG, Lucinda was an elected member of Leeds City Council for 10 years, representing Kirkstall Ward. During this time she served on the Executive Board for 8 years holding a number of portfolio positions and was Deputy Leader for 3 years. In 2022, Lucinda was made an Honorary Alderman of the City of Leeds.

Before starting her political career Lucinda worked for the Royal Mencap Society in their community development team, campaigning for the rights of people with learning disabilities. She continues to sit on a variety of boards for local and national 3rd sector and cultural organisations. Lucinda is chair of Kirkstall Valley Development Trust and has recently been appointed as an Honorary Patron for Leeds Heritage Theatres.

Robin Fry, Inclusive Economy Advisor, North East Combined Authority

Robin Fry is the Inclusive Economy Advisor for the North East Combined Authority. He is passionate about supporting the conditions in which everyone can contribute to the success of the region, and access what they need to live well now and in the future. Robin has been involved in the development of the North of Tyne Wellbeing Framework and currently oversees a programme of activities funded via UKSPF to support prosperous and resilient communities. Prior to joining the Combined Authority Robin worked in the voluntary and community sector for over 20 years.

Nigel Wilcock, Executive Director, Institute of Economic Development

Nigel is the Executive Director of the Institute of Economic Development and Director of Advisory Firm Mickledore. He has worked for 30 years on the role of private sector investment in helping to shape places and drive regional economies. This included 10 years at EY where he was Regional Director and UK spokesperson on inward investment. In the recent past he has worked on projects linked to driving investment for 5 of the 8 English core cities. Based in NW England he also holds a position on the Governing Body of the University of Salford and is a Board Director of Sanctuary Housing Scotland.

Claire Watts, Director of Economic Development and Communications,  East Riding of Yorkshire Council

Claire is the Director of Economic Development and Communications for East Riding of Yorkshire Council. She has spent nearly 20 years leading local authority regeneration and funding activity, with a clear focus on creating impact and changing lives for the better. Prior to this she spent 10 years working within the Voluntary and Community Sector developing and leading community economic development and shills programmes and organisations. She is a co-founder of the Social Value Engine.