The event was the first of its kind for the local charity.
YMCA Burton has reflected on the success of its inaugural Inequalities Conference, which brought together representatives from local government, charities, community organisations, emergency services and voluntary groups to explore ways of addressing inequality and strengthening support for vulnerable people across the area.
The conference created a valuable opportunity for organisations to share knowledge, develop new partnerships and discuss collaborative approaches to some of the most pressing challenges facing local communities.
The event was opened by Councillor Monica Holton, new Mayor of East Staffordshire, who shared her personal experiences, setting the tone for a day focused on collaboration, inclusion and positive change.
YMCA Burton Chief Executive Paul Laffey and Senior Development Manager Catherine Miles welcomed attendees and highlighted the importance of working together to create lasting change. The conference also welcomed Jacob Collier MP for Burton and Uttoxeter, who joined Paul for a question-and-answer session, responding to issues and themes raised during the morning’s discussions, and Michelle Ugwueze, Inspector and Deputy Commander for Staffordshire Police, who also joined in support of the day’s discussions.
Jacob said: “I know all too well the demand for support here locally and the impact this has on Burton and Uttoxeter organisations, so it was great to join YMCA Burton’s Inequalities Conference to further discuss what more the Government can do.
It has recently introduced measures like removing the two child cap, lifting over a thousand children out of poverty in Burton and Uttoxeter, and a youth hub here locally to support young people getting into work and with mental health. Initiatives which I know will greatly help my constituents.
Going forward I will continue to speak up for East Staffordshire and call for more preventative support.
Representatives from a wide range of organisations contributed expert insight throughout the day, including guest speakers from Christians Against Poverty, Trent & Dove, Staffordshire Council of Voluntary Youth Services, Support Staffordshire and The BAC O’Connor Centre (Burton Addiction Centre).
Delegates also heard from YMCA Burton Mediator Peter O’Reilly, whose presentation on “Peacebuilding in a Polarised Society” encouraged reflection on building understanding and resilience within communities.
The conference was expertly facilitated by Professor Laura Walton-Williams, whose guidance ensured productive discussion and meaningful engagement throughout the day.
Speaking after the event, which was the first of its kind for YMCA Burton, Paul Laffey celebrated that “it demonstrated the strength of partnership working across East Staffordshire, bringing together and learning from individuals and organisations with a shared passion and commitment to supporting and investing in our communities”.
Individually, you can make a difference, but working with others is far more effective and bringing together organisations with a shared commitment to supporting vulnerable people has sparked important conversations and created new opportunities for collaboration.
We are grateful to every speaker, delegate and organisation who contributed to making the day such a success.
Discussions don’t stop here; we are eager to build on the momentum generated and focus on the next steps for increased equality in our communities.
Feedback from attendees demonstrated the positive impact of the conference, with one delegate commenting: “It was such a good event.
I think everyone left feeling hopeful and well connected.
Another attendee added: “I really enjoyed the day and found the speakers’ words inspiring.”
Reflecting on the day, Mayor Monica said:
The Inequalities Conference was insightful, informative and inspiring. I would like to thank YMCA Burton for their unwavering dedication in supporting hundreds of residents within East Staffordshire.
It was encouraging to see so many local organisations represented, bringing with them a wealth of knowledge and experience.
I look forward to seeing the positive impact these conversations, partnerships and shared ambitions will make across East Staffordshire.
YMCA Burton is committed to continuing the conversations that began at the conference and strengthening the partnerships that will help deliver practical, long-term solutions to tackle inequality and create stronger, more inclusive communities across East Staffordshire.