VONNE Conference and AGM 2025

VONNE Annual Conference 2025: Shifting Sands - How should the VCSE sector navigate changing political climates and public opinion? 

Wednesday 26th November 2025, 9:00am -1:00pm - St Mary’s Heritage Centre, Gateshead 

As the political and public landscape continues to evolve, how can the VCSE sector stay effective, informed, and resilient? Join VONNE for our 2025 Annual Conference, Shifting Sands, where we’ll explore how voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations can understand and respond to changing political climates and public opinions. 

This half-day event will bring together sector leaders, policymakers, academics, and grassroots organisations to share evidence, insights, and practical ideas for navigating uncertainty.  

Expect data-led scene setting, lived experience from community organisations, and perspectives from across the UK on how the VCSE sector can continue to make an impact amid change. Together, we’ll consider what’s needed from VONNE and other stakeholders to strengthen the sector’s voice and effectiveness in a shifting environment. 

Conference Agenda

Setting the Political Scene - Fireside talk with Alistair Clark, Prof of Political Science, Newcastle University

Building Stronger Communities - Panel Discussion

• Chair – Ngozi Cole
• Lesley Storey, My Sisters Place and One Million Women and Girls
• Andy Durma, West End Refugee Service
• Caroline Rogan, Northumberland CVA
• Jill Hardy, Rainbow Home
• James Fildes, Space North East
• Salha Kaitesi, North East Anti-Racism Coalition

How can the sector work with political leadership/within the changing landscape? - Panel discussion

• Chair – To be announced
• Kate Burrows, Durham Community Action
• Garry Jones, Support Staffordshire
• Sam Pritchard, Muckle LLP
• Enver Solomon, Refugee Council
• Michelle Cooper, Point North

Additional information and full agenda to be announced. 

Thank you to our event sponsors

Free and discounted tickets are available for VONNE Membership+ members. Log in to your user dashboard before you register to access the discounted price or redeem a free ticket code. 

If you would like to attend the AGM only, please email us at vonne@vonne.org.uk to reserve your free place.