The Power of Local Conference 2026 by Support Staffordshire
Description
Join us for the first ever Support Staffordshire Conference, bringing together charities, community groups, and VCSE organisations from across the county to celebrate and strengthen The Power of Local. This inspiring full‑day event is designed to connect leaders, spark collaboration, and explore practical solutions that help communities thrive.
Through keynote speakers, interactive workshops, networking spaces, and real‑world case studies, we’ll shine a spotlight on the impact of Staffordshire’s voluntary and community sector — and how we can build an even stronger future together.
Whether you’re a small grassroots charity or a larger VCSE organisation, this conference offers space to learn, share, and be energised by the collective innovation happening across our county.
Come ready to connect, collaborate, and champion the incredible local work shaping Staffordshire.
Agenda
- 9:00 am - 10:00 am
Networking & Meet The Exhibitors
- 10:00 am - 10:15 am
Welcome from Garry Jones, CEO, Support Staffordshire
- 10:15 am - 11:00 am
Panel: Health and Happiness - Everyone's Right to Live Well
- 11:00 am - 11:15 am
Guest Speaker: Professor Elizabeth Barnes CBE, Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire - The Kings Award
We are delighted to welcome Professor Elizabeth Barnes CBE, Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire to highlight local champions that have been awarded The Kings Award and also share how future winners can apply.
- 11:15 am - 12:00 pm
Ask the Experts Breakout Sessions
This is your chance to ask our carefully selected expert speakers your questions about key topics. The Breakout Room themes are: - Room 1: Trusts & Grants - Room 2: EDI - Room 3: Volunteering
- 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Lunch & Networking
A buffet lunch and refreshments are included within the cost of your ticket.
- 1:00 pm - 1:15 pm
Impact of Support Staffordshire
A welcome back after lunch to share updates from Support Staffordshire and complete the AGM voting for members.
- 1:15 pm - 2:00 pm
Ask the Experts Breakout Sessions
This is your chance to ask our carefully selected expert speakers your questions about key topics. The Breakout Room themes are: - Room 1: Fundraising - Room 2: Sustainability - Room 3: AI & Charity Uses
- 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Keynote Speaker Interview and Q&A: Rav Wilding
Rav is well known for Crimewatch, Crimewatch Roadshow, Morning Live, and Scam Interceptors, and will lead a keynote interview followed by a Q&A.
Travel
Getting to The Octagon Events Centre:
By Bus: Several bus services operate along Weston Road, with stops within walking distance of The Octagon Events Centre.
Visit Traveline for more information.
By Train: Stafford Railway Station is approximately 35 minutes’ walk from The Octagon Events Centre, or around 10 minutes by taxi.
General train enquiries: 03457 48 49 50 or visit www.nationalrail.co.uk
By Car: From M6 Junction 14, follow signs for Stafford (A5013). Continue towards Weston Road (A513) and follow local signage for The Octagon Events Centre (ST18 0BF).
Parking: There is free on-site parking available for visitors at The Octagon Events Centre, parking attendants and signage will direct you to the correct parking on arrival.
For more information about the venue, please visit the Octagon Events website.
Our Sponsors
Zephi
Brown Recycling Limited
Woolcool
SBEN (Staffordshire Business & Environment Network)
Taylor Lucas
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
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