Leaders from across the community and voluntary sector gathered for the MHCGL Pride and Place Conference – an inspiring event focused on strengthening neighbourhoods and driving meaningful local change.

Representing NAVCA and Slough CVS, Asma Aziz, CEO of Slough CVS, delivered a workshop alongside Meena Kalsi from Community Calm and Sandra Meadows, Chair of NAVCA. The session explored how Local Infrastructure Organisations (LIOs) can drive change and work effectively with local authorities and partners to improve outcomes.

The workshop sparked thoughtful and practical discussions about overcoming shared challenges and implementing change – including ensuring communities and residents are part of future decision making neighbourhood boards.

“As Local Infrastructure Organisations, we are uniquely positioned to bridge communities and statutory partners,” said Asma Aziz, CEO of Slough CVS. “If we are serious about improving outcomes, we must ensure residents are at the heart of neighbourhood decision-making. Real change happens when communities are not just heard, but empowered.”

The conference brought together a diverse and passionate group of organisations, including Community Organisers, Local Trust, Involve, Power to Change, Place Matters, 3ni: the national network for neighbourhood improvement, Hyphen Poetry, Citizens UK, The National Lottery Community Fund, Locality, The Centre for Collaboration in Community Connectedness and Centre for Participation and Action.

The Pride and Place Conference provided a valuable space for reflection and collaboration at a time when strong local infrastructure is more important than ever. For Slough CVS and NAVCA, the event reaffirmed the power of partnership, shared learning and community-led approaches in shaping vibrant, resilient neighbourhoods.