VODG Policy and Public Affairs Professional Network Meeting | July 2026

Join us for a policy update, small group discussions on key topics, and resource sharing.

The next meeting of the Policy and Public Affairs professional network is now open for booking.

This session will explore the recent King’s Speech, focusing on how members can effectively engage with—and influence—bills as they progress through Parliament. We will also look at how collaborative working can strengthen collective impact.

What to expect:

  • Policy update from VODG
    Sarah Woodhouse will share the latest on VODG’s policy priorities and initiatives, alongside practical ways members can contribute—such as providing evidence, supporting campaigns and shaping policy activity.
  • Engaging with Parliamentary bills
    An expert speaker will outline effective approaches to influencing legislation, with a focus on bills announced in the King’s Speech.
  • Interactive member discussion
    A practical, member-led session to identify opportunities for collaboration and influence, particularly in relation to the Health Bill. You’ll leave with actionable tools, insights and ideas to apply in your own organisation.
  • Looking ahead
    We’ll close with the regular Activity Planner and an opportunity to suggest topics for future meetings.

This promises to be a valuable and practical session for policy leads—secure your place today.

Draft Programme

10.00

Welcome

Sarah Woodhouse, Director of Policy and Influencing, VODG

10.05

Introductions

VODG Co-chairs

10.10

VODG Policy Update

Sarah Woodhouse, Director of Policy and Influencing, VODG

10.25

Engaging with Bills going through Parliament

Speaker TBC

11.00

Legislation in the King’s Speech – how can VODG members work together to influence?

Member discussion

11.35

Activity Planner

Sarah Woodhouse, Director of Policy and Influencing, VODG

11.45

Future topics

VODG Co-chairs

12.00

End

 

Accessibility  

Please note, should you have any accessibility requirements, we will do our best to make necessary arrangements to support you; however, we may require up to four weeks notice, so please list your requirements on the booking form. Closed captions are used as standard in online meetings. If you have any concerns, please email [email protected].

 

VODG Policy and Public Affairs Network Co-chairs

Anna Collishaw-Nikodemus

Anna Collishaw-Nikodemus

Head of Policy Voice and Influencing, Kids

Davina Jones

Davina Jones

Head of Policy Influencing and Social Change, Brainkind

Donna O'Brien

Donna O'Brien

Public Affairs and Research Manager, SeeAbility