Changing hearts and minds: Countering harmful narratives will blend cutting edge science and data analysis with communications best practice to equip participants with tools to shape a more just and equal world.
The first part of the day will focus on learning. Our speakers include:
Georgina Laming, campaigns and communications director at Hope not Hate, on understanding voter motivations
Public attitudes to civil society influence government action. Charities and trade unions in the UK are not immune to the hostile rhetoric and subsequent funding cuts, restrictions and undermining experienced by colleagues in Europe and the US. This important session will draw on exclusive polling from Hope not Hate to explore voter motivations and the issues that resonate with different groups so that we can learn how to safeguard our work and the communities we serve.
Steve Ballinger, director of communications at British Future, on creating positive emotional appeal
In a world where divisive narratives shape public opinion, how can we craft counter-narratives that truly resonate? In this engaging session, Steve Ballinger from British Future explores how to make alternative messages not just heard but felt. Drawing on psychological insights, polling data and real-world examples, he will unpack the emotional triggers that drive belief systems and share practical strategies for framing messages in ways that build empathy, shift perspectives, and inspire action.
More speakers to be announced soon!
The second part of the day will focus on doing. Participants will be split into breakout groups and given a real-world scenario to tackle using the insights shared during the morning’s session, as well as their own expertise.
Breakout group themes:
Social, racial and economic justice
Welfare reform, social security and the benefits system
Climate change and the transition to Net Zero
Challenging far-right activity in the workplace
Protecting human rights, including those of workers, women and immigrants
Freedom of expression and protest
Political communications and lobbying
These groups will be facilitated by Vic Barlow, Becky Slack and other familiar faces from across the charity and trade union sectors.
In addition to helping to embed new knowledge, these breakout groups are structured as a mini strategy session, giving ample opportunity to engage in thoughtful debate with peers and explore practical solutions that you can take back to the office and implement in your own campaigns and content.
Overall, participants will leave with a wealth of important knowledge, an enhanced network and some new ideas for taking their own communications to the next level.
What: Changing hearts and minds: Countering harmful narratives
When: 10am to 5pm Wednesday 4 June in London
Who: Senior colleagues in comms, campaigns, public affairs and policy
How much: £297 (plus VAT)
Book now: places limited to 60 for a truly focused experience
Terms and conditions:
Due to the participatory nature of the event, delegates will be required to attend the full duration
Tickets cannot be refunded but they can be passed to another colleague or organisation. Please contact rebecca.haack@your-agenda.com with the contact details of who the ticket is being transferred to.
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