This Thursday (13th June) sees the return of The Business Exchange South West Charity Conference & Expo at Bath Racecourse.
This year’s theme is ‘Driving Positive Change’, with sessions and conversations centring on societal issues and how we can all work collectively to make a difference in our community.
The annual Charity Conference started in 2019, and this year’s event is being delivered in partnership with our sponsors Milsted Langdon, St John’s Foundation and Stone King.
Attracting attendees and exhibitors from across the country including Devon, Dorset, Manchester and London, the Conference has grown to be a flagship event for the TBE network and promises a wealth of opportunities to connect, converse and contribute.
In addition to sponsoring the event, St John’s Foundation is one of this year’s exhibitors. We asked Marketing Manager Clare Macleod about the charity and what she’s looking forward to at the South West Charity Conference 2024.
What does your organisation do?
For 850 years, St John’s Foundation has been changing people’s lives, for good. As one of the UK’s oldest charities, we proudly serve Bath and its surrounding area. Through our Best Start in Life initiative we aim to ensure every child under 12 can grow up being healthy, happy, and educated. We also provide older adults with housing and outreach services, as well as providing funding support for those who have reached a point of crisis in their life
Why have you signed up for the Conference & Expo and what do you hope to gain from it?
This is our third year attending the Conference & Expo, and each year we make valuable connections. Collaboration between charities is crucial, as it enables us all to reach and support more people. The event provides an excellent opportunity to network with other third sector organisations, understand the challenges their beneficiaries face, and explore innovative solutions to work together more effectively.
Are there any sessions you are particularly looking forward to?
We are especially excited about our own session at this year’s conference, which focuses on the theme of collaboration. Our Head of Good Living, Lynn Toman, will join Age UK’s CEO, Simon Allen, to discuss our joint efforts in ‘Driving Positive Change’. The session will highlight the newly launched Ageing Well Network, exploring the Age Friendly initiative, its impact on improving the lives of older adults, and how collaborative efforts can bring about significant societal change.
What can people expect from your organisation on the day?
This year marks a significant milestone for St John’s as we celebrate our 850th anniversary. Reaching this milestone has required us to evolve continually to stay relevant and address the community’s needs. Our CEO, David Hobdey, will discuss this evolution during the breakfast session. Be sure to purchase a ticket to hear his insights, and visit our stall in the expo to learn more.
Where can people find out more about your organisation?
Visit our website stjohnsbath.org.uk or find us on social media under ‘St John’s Foundation Est.1174’
