Coming up in February is our Communications and Media Skills Day, where we will be exploring how to engage effectively with the media and decision-makers around the issues that matter most to our members.

The Communications and Media Skills Day takes place in Leicester on Tuesday 27th Feb featuring expert input from partner agencies IMiX and Asylum Matters.

For full details about the event and to book your space, click here.

Alongside spaces for members, there are also a limited number of tickets for non-members, but places are limited so we’d advise you to book early to avoid disappointment. There are also some free spaces available for people with NRPF (get in touch with us for more info).

NB. Participating organisations have not charged a fee for their contributions to this event. Ticket prices cover costs for the day with any surplus going back into developing and resourcing our network.

The day will focus on two sessions, both of which will be repeated to ensure accessibility:

10.30- 12.30 – Morning session- choice of two workshops led by experts in the field:

Asylum Matters – how to engage with decision makers

Led by Andrea Vukovic (Project Director) and Katie McSherry (Campaigns Project Manager, North East)

This workshop will help delegates engage confidently and effectively with local councillors and MPs on key issues that relate to their work around asylum and refugee issues. The 2 hour session will include an overview of who to connect with- and how to do this well. There will also be a practical activity to kickstart future conversations with decision makers. There will also be time for Q&A.

IMiX – how to engage with the media

Led by Emma Harrison (IMiX Director) and Alex Mitchelmore (Media Manager)

This workshop will help delegates grow in confidence with developing organisational messages and identifying news stories, including those involving service users. The 2 hour session will provide an overview of how to work with the media at whatever stage your organisation is at, plus top tips on developing a media plan and engaging with media interviews. There will also be time for Q&A.

As both sessions will be very practical, delegates are encouraged to bring along any specific examples or upcoming opportunities that they feel able to share in the workshops. Otherwise Asylum Matters and IMiX will supply scenarios to explore together.

12.30-1.30 – Lunch

1.30- 3.30 Afternoon session- repeat of the two morning workshops

3.30- 4.30 – Presentation on Storytelling for Impact by People’s Voice Media followed by group discussion on community reporting including scope for future training.

We hope you are able to join us! Click here to book tickets.