Events and opportunities in Big Local’s final year

Explore what’s coming up as we enter the final 12 months of the Big Local programme.

This spring marks the beginning of the final 12 months of Big Local. Whether you’re completing your activities or continuing on as part of a new group or organisation, we’re offering new opportunities to celebrate everything that’s been achieved during this unique programme.  

In our final year of learning and networking together, we’ll be focusing on:  

• Supporting you to prepare for the end of Big Local and celebrating your achievements 

• Offering guidance on specific responsibilities during close out  
• Supporting you to build connection as you continue community action in your area, whether as an individual or a new group or organisation.

Online events for all  

We’ll be holding several online events this year, covering topics including ending well.  

Sign up now to join the first event with Just Ideas celebrating the end of your Big Local area on Wednesday 23 April, and keep an eye on our events page for future listings as they are announced.  

If you have suggestions for future events, you can drop us a line on support@localtrust.org.uk.   

Final network event for Big Local chairs and vice chairs  

The final session of the Big Local chairs and vice chairs network will take place on 19 March 2025. It will focus on how chairs can support each other and offer signposting to other support available in the future. 

Chairs and vice chairs from across the country have been meeting regularly in person and online since the early years of the programme. If you haven’t attended recently (or at all), you can still register to attend this special farewell.  

If you are interested but unable to join us this time, please email Georgie on georgie.burr@localtrust.org.uk.   

Supporting workers as your area closes out

Our support partner, Peas in a Pod, are running two workshops to help Big Local partnerships and LTOs understand their responsibilities and navigate different scenarios for Big Local workers during close out. 

The workshops build on the guidance available now in our new guide.   

There are two opportunities to join the workshop. Sign up to book your place on Tuesday 1 April or Thursday 10th April.   

Events for Big Local workers 

Following the successful delivery of the Worker Development Programme in 2024, we will be running a programme of events for Big Local workers during 2025, in partnership with Peas in a Pod.  

Including online sessions and in-person events, we’ll be building on key themes that emerged from the 2024 development programme, such as supporting wellbeing, ending well, managing change, and employability, as well as plenty of time for peer connection and networking.   

More information on how to sign up will follow. You can register your interest now by emailing Rachel on rachel.tilley@localtrust.org.uk  

In-person events and training 

Over the next 12 months, you’ll have several opportunities to connect with other Big Local areas in person. Some of these events will be for areas still in the programme only, so please check eligibility when registering. 

We’ll be offering equality, diversity and inclusion training with Happy Smiles in Wigan this summer. More details and information on how to sign up will follow soon.  

In September 2025, we’ll be hosting a day-long event in Birmingham, giving you the chance to continue your community action individually or as a group beyond Big Local. The event will be packed with workshops and the opportunity to build connections with local organisations and funders. Big Local areas still in the programme and those closing out during 2025 are welcome to attend. More details and information on how to sign up will be available soon.  

And finally, to celebrate everything that’s been achieved by all 150 areas through Big Local, we’ll be hosting a celebratory event in March 2026 – and inviting every Big Local area to attend. Look out for more details coming soon!   

We can’t wait to connect with you virtually or in person this year. Get in contact with any questions or feedback at support@localtrust.org.uk. And keep an eye on our events page for more information on new events and opportunities as they become available.