Social Value UK

Tag: Conference

Reflecting on MemEx 2023

A Celebration of Connection, Collaboration, and Community

Our recently concluded Members’ Exchange (MemEx) 2023 was more than just a conference; it was a vibrant gathering that highlighted the essence of connection, collaboration, and community within SVUK. In this recap, we’ll explore three key takeaways that stood out during MemEx and delve into the enriching experiences that unfolded, reinforcing the strength of our shared vision.

The Power of Global Relationships: At the heart of MemEx 2023 was the acknowledgment of the invaluable relationships we share with Social Value International (SVI) and our fellow Joint Member Networks worldwide. The significance of these connections was a recurring theme, emphasising how our collaborative efforts extend beyond borders. My recent election to the Board of SVI further solidifies our commitment to global cooperation and opens doors for exciting opportunities on the international stage.

Networking Beyond the Screen: In a world increasingly dominated by virtual interactions, MemEx 2023 emphasised the irreplaceable value of in-person networking. Attendees had the chance to engage not only during scheduled breaks but also within speaker sessions, fostering meaningful connections. My’ Meet the CEO’ session provided a unique platform for individual interactions, allowing members to voice questions and ideas directly. The warmth of face-to-face exchanges resonated, creating an atmosphere conducive to idea sharing, problem-solving, and genuine relationship-building.

Embracing Diversity of Views: A standout feature of MemEx 2023 was the celebration of our community’s diversity of views. The richness of perspectives, evident not only in the agenda but also within sessions, fuelled lively and passionate debates (see accompanying blog on one such session!). The conference became a melting pot of innovative ideas, challenging concepts, and collaborative problem-solving. Embracing this diversity is central to our collective strength and growth as a community.

As we reflect on the successes of MemEx 2023, our ambitions for the future are high. Plans to become a fully remote team align with our global presence, while the desire for co-location with members demonstrates a commitment to shared experiences. Hosting SVUK roadshows, facilitated by members, promises to further strengthen sector-specific connections and broaden our impact. The support and offers of assistance received during MemEx underscore the tangible sense of belonging within our movement.

MemEx 2023 was not just a conference; it was a celebration of our collective achievements, driven by the power of genuine connections and a commitment to shared goals. As we look forward to next year’s conference, we invite all members to actively contribute their ideas and help shape the character and approach of future gatherings. Thank you to everyone who played a role in making MemEx 2023 a success, and we eagerly anticipate the continued growth and evolution of our community in the coming year. Until then, let the spirit of collaboration and camaraderie continue to guide us. See you next year!

Isabelle Parasram OBE

CEO, Social Value UK

Did you speak at or attend MemEx 2023? If so, send us a blog or other form of media we can share. We’d love to publish more insights from the sessions…

22/11/2023
Social Value Matters 2021: Leading Our Transition To A Sustainable World
We are proud to announce that Social Value UK is partnering with the Social Value Matters 2021 conference, taking place online and in person on the 20th and 21st October 2021. This year’s conference will bring together individuals and leaders from across the world to discuss how changing the way the world accounts for value will lead to a sustainable world for all.

Join us at the conference for:
- Networking sessions
- Mainstage events with headline speakers and high level panels
- Practical insights on how to change the way the world accounts for value
- Workshops and seminar sessions spanning policy and regulation, ESG, impact investing, purposeful business, assurance, sustainability, data and technology, wellbeing and human rights.
- Exchanging ideas and connecting with peers through the conference platform.
Register Here

Last year, over 700 participants from 40 countries attended the Social Value Matters 2020 conference.

At this year’s Social Value Matters conference, you will meet social value professionals, impact investors, academics, policy makers, organisational leaders, students, non-profits, social entrepreneurs, lawyers, and leaders – all with a shared vision to change the way the world accounts for value.

By hosting the conference as a hybrid event Social Value Matters will allow participants to come together safely, either in person or online, for a groundbreaking 2 days.

You can find more information on the conference website.
12/05/2021
Social Value – Why bother? The Social Value Cymru Conference

Wednesday, 9^th October 2019 – Conwy Business Centre, Llandudno Junction, North Wales

This conference was organised by Social Value Cymru which is led by Mantell Gwynedd, County Voluntary Council, and works in partnership with its sister organisations across north Wales. Social Value Cymru is working with third sector organisations to embed social value within their organisations and consider how social value data can inform their decision making.

Mantell Gwynedd also coordinates the North Wales Social Value Network. Members range from University academics, Local Authority Officers, County Voluntary Councils, the Health Board, social enterprises and third sector organisations. The network provides an opportunity for members to meet up; debate and discuss their work; look at any challenges or solutions that they are experiencing, and to network with likeminded people.

This conference was organised in partnership with the Social Value Forum Steering Group that was set up in response to Section 16 of the Social Services and Well-Being (Wales) Act 2014. This act places a duty upon local authorities (with partners) to promote the development of not for profit organisations to provide care and support services and preventative services. The supporting Code of Practice in relation to this duty, requires local authorities, with health board partners, to establish regional forums to support social value-based providers and to develop a shared understanding of the common agenda and develop good practice.

It was an extremely successful day with representation from all six local authorities in north Wales, the health board, police, housing associations, the Big Lottery Community Fund, and third sector organisations representing a cross-section of services. There were presentations from Shelley Davies, Head of Partnership and Integration in Welsh Government, Maria Bell – North Wales Social Care and Well-Being Improvement Collaborative, Ben Carpenter from Social Value UK, Dr Adam Richards Social Value UK and Anne Lythgoe – VCSE Accord Lead at the Greater Manchester Combined Authority. It was also great to hear inspiring stories from Tracey Evans CEO of The Outdoor Partnership, who support people back into employment through outdoor activities, and are part of the Measure and Manage your Social Value North Wales project. In the afternoon there were discussions on how social value can be driven forward in north Wales, what are the challenges and then the groups identified indicators of how social value will be embedded in the process and practice of commissioning and procurement.

Much has already happened in north Wales in driving forward this agenda, but hopefully, this event will ensure that embedding social value in commissioning and procurement is prioritised. All actions from the day can be driven forward through the network.

If you would like more information about to get involved with Social Value Cymru please contact Eleri Lloyd at
eleri.lloyd@mantellgwynedd.com.

14/10/2019