VODG Policy and Public Affairs Professional Network Meeting | March 2026

Policy and Public Affairs Leads are invited to join this new VODG network for policy updates, small group discussions on key topics, peer support and resource sharing.

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

We will begin with an update from VODG’s Director of Policy and Influencing, Sarah Woodhouse, who will outline the latest developments on the Employment Rights Bill, the Fair Pay Agreement, the Casey Review, and wider VODG policy activity.

We are also pleased to welcome a speaker from DeHavilland to provide an overview of the forthcoming local elections — where they are taking place, where they are not, and the emerging trends and issues that policy leads will want to have on their radar.

In our next session, Skeena Williamson from NHS Confederation's ICS network will explore recent changes to ICBs, including the 10‑year health plan, neighbourhood health developments, system reorganisation, and the evolving role of VCSE partners.

Before we close, we will introduce our new Activity Planner — a regular slot offering members the chance to share current policy work, spotlight priorities, and identify opportunities for collaboration. We will then open the floor for members to shape the agenda for future meetings.

Reserve your place today to ensure you are part of these timely and valuable discussions

Draft Programme

14.00

VODG Welcome

Sarah Woodhouse, Director of Policy and Influencing, VODG

14.05

Introductions

VODG Co-chairs

14.10

VODG update

Sarah Woodhouse, Director of Policy and Influencing, VODG

14.25

Local Government Elections

DeHavilland

15.05

ICBs and the NHSE reorganisation

Skeena Williamson, Policy and Delivery Manager, ICB Network, NHS Conferation

15.35

Activity Planner

Members

15.45

Future Topics

VODG Co-chairs

15.55

Final Roundup

Sarah Woodhouse, Director of Policy and Influencing, VODG

16.00

End

 

Speakers

Skeena Williamson

Skeena Williamson

Policy and Delivery Manager, ICS Network, NHS Confederation

De Havilland

 

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