Policy and Influence

Greater Manchester Leading the Way in Civil Society Collaboration

On 8th July 120 leaders and staff from across Greater Manchester’s voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector, local and combined authority, NHS, transport, and research, came together to mark a renewed nine-year collaboration agreement that sets out how they will work together to improve things for residents, communities, places and the environment.

Cost of Living GM Mayoral Hustings

Food, rent, and other basics of life continue to be a huge burden for millions of people across Greater Manchester. The cost of living is too high, and wages have failed to keep up.

Three organisations that work on the cost of living across our city-region have put this hustings together to give you the chance to put your questions directly to the candidates who are standing to be the next mayor of Greater Manchester.

ACORN Manchester – GM branch of a national community union, which campaigns on renter's rights, bailiff use and a range of other working-class issues.

Online and in-person Ascension Church, 282 Stretford Road, Manchester, M15 5TQ

LGBTQ+ Hustings with Greater Manchester Mayoral Candidates

Come and hear from the Greater Manchester mayoral hopefuls on the issues that matter to LGBTQ+ voters.

Join LGBT Foundation for an important evening of conversation, community, and democratic participation, hosted by Emma Goswell.

All mayoral candidates have been invited to take part in this event, providing LGBTQ+ voters and allies with the opportunity to hear directly from those seeking to lead Greater Manchester.

The Church, 37 Chorlton Street, Manchester, M1 3HN
Shared Topic Areas

Greater Manchester Mayoral Election Hustings for the Voluntary, Community, Faith, and Social Enterprise (VCFSE) Sector

How will the next Greater Manchester Metro Mayor work with the VCFSE sector?

Greater Manchester’s Voluntary, Community, Faith, and Social Enterprise (VCFSE) sector is the backbone of our region, supporting communities and residents and driving social and economic change across all ten boroughs. As we look to the future, we bring the contenders for the next Greater Manchester Mayor together to explore the unique challenges, opportunities, and strategic priorities facing our sector and how they hope to use their power in this role to respond to them.  

Friends’ Meeting House, 6 Mount Street, Manchester, M2 5NS
Shared Topic Areas

Employment Rights Act 2025 – what charity leaders need to know

The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) have published guidance on the Employment Rights Act (ERA) 2025. It says that the Act represents the most significant shift in UK employment law in a generation. For charity finance leaders and trustees, understanding these reforms is vital for both budgetary planning and risk management. While the Act received Royal Assent in December 2025, its provisions are being introduced in stages through January 2027.

Atkinson HR: Inclusive Leadership 101 – Beyond the Tick-Box Towards Real Change

Many organisations have inclusion on the agenda, but fewer feel confident they are getting it right. 

This webinar focuses on what inclusive leadership actually looks like day to day, moving beyond policies and statements towards meaningful, lasting change. 

We (Atkinson HR) will explore common pitfalls and share practical actions leaders can take to create more inclusive cultures.

Online