Events

This event provided an opportunity for groups in the South East, London and East of England to meet up to discuss regional issues and share ideas. Part of the day focused upon developing strategies and skills for dealing with the media, including the writing of press releases, tips on placing stories in the local media and preparing for radio and television interviews.

This training day helped participants to place local campaigns against road-building or airport expansion in the wider context of climate change. There was also the chance to learn about key developments in national transport policy, and a session on the planning process for airport expansion.

This training day gave local groups the opportunity to discuss creative and practical ideas for encouraging young people to ‘turn on’ to environmental issues. There were workshops upon engaging local schools, on linking with the national curriculum, and on the planning and delivery of education materials and events.

This workshop presented tips, techniques and the chance for novice public speakers to try out their skills in front of a supportive audience. There was advice on how to prepare, how to engage different types of audience and how to take questions. Participants also learnt how to liven up their speeches with props and visual aids, and how to deal with nerves.

Taking a stall at fairs and other community events is often an effective way for local groups to boost their membership and their finances. This workshop gave participants the chance to learn from groups who have perfected the art of setting up eye-catching, well-visited stalls.

Placing stories in the local media is one of the most effective ways for local campaigns to raise their profile and increase their impact upon decision-makers. This workshop discussed ways of using the right messages to make a campaign newsworthy, of using the media strategically and of developing ongoing relations with local journalists.

This workshop focused upon ideas for attracting new people to local groups, offering tips on where to look for recruits and identifying the benefits of membership. There was also advice upon how to train new members so they can take an effective, fulfilling role in a range of campaign activities.

This event was aimed at local groups wishing to improve the quality of their meetings. The workshop offered practical advice and techniques for helping members get better at working together, involving more people in decision-making and generally making meetings more enjoyable and effective.