Connected Approach to Neighbourhoods
Derbyshire Voluntary Action Conference 9th September 2025
Connected Approach to Neighbourhoods DVA Conference 2025
This year’s Derbyshire Voluntary Action (DVA) Conference will focus on the government’s new model for a Connected Approach to Neighbourhoods and the opportunities it creates for charities, community groups, health partners, and statutory services.
The day will bring together leaders, frontline professionals, and community voices to share learning, explore practical solutions, and shape how neighbourhood working can transform outcomes across Derbyshire.
“Real change happens at community level”
Jacqui Willis
CEO Derbyshire Voluntary Action
Conference Details
- Hear from inspiring speakers from the VCSE, ICB, GP, and Public Health
- Connect with partners across sectors
- Explore what the neighbourhood model means for you with interactive workshops
- Q&A with the guest speakers to greater explore and understand how the Integrated Neighbourhood Model for Derbyshire will affect us
- Shape the future of place-based working in Derbyshire
Healthcare partnerships
Presentation 1: Community Voice, Community Agency
Introduction:
Luan Wilde, Public Health Lead for Localities and Place
Personal stories from:
Tim Aldwick, Mindscapes
Darrell Price, Pain Inspired
Presentation 2: The Neighbourhood Model
Angela Wright, Assistant Director Place Development & Delivery Jim Austin, Chief Executive, Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS FT (DCHS)
Presentation 3: A Different Way of Working – A GP’s Perspective
Alice Fenton, GP Royal Primary Care & Chesterfield Local Place Alliance Clinical Lead
Presentation 4: Working within a Multi-Agency Neighbourhood Approach – The Value of VCSE
Sharon Gibbs, Senior Commissioning Manager, NHS Derby and Derbyshire Integrated Care Board & Chesterfield Neighbourhood Alliance Lead
Tom Watson, General Manager, South Hardwick PCN
Hannah Leaton, Associate Director of Strategy, Planning and Partnerships, Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS FT