Tuesday 10th March, together with Active Derbyshire, we were delighted to host the first Safer Spaces, Stronger Minds Conference. ✨
The day brought together organisations from across the sport, leisure and wellbeing sectors to explore how we can continue strengthening safeguarding and welfare practices within our spaces. It was a day filled with thoughtful discussion, shared learning and honest reflection.
We were joined by a fantastic group of speakers who shared their knowledge, experience and insight:
Liam Baker – Together We Lift C.I.C
Opened the day with a powerful and personal story about how the organisation was founded through his own lived experience of mental health, highlighting how strength training and community connection can support wellbeing.
Ryan Kirby – CIMSPA
Spoke about the importance of professional standards, accreditation and training within the fitness sector, and how organisations can strengthen workforce governance and safeguarding practices.
Dr. Mandy MacDonald – Derby City Council LADO
Delivered an important session on managing allegations against staff and volunteers, outlining the role of LADO and sharing practical guidance on recognising concerns and seeking support.
Kevin Murphy & Angie Harper – NWG Network
Delivered a thought-provoking session on bystander intervention and preventing violence against women and girls, exploring the barriers that can prevent people speaking up and the importance of challenging harmful behaviours early.
Lauren Adderley – Kyniska Advocacy
Closed the day as keynote speaker, encouraging organisations to reflect on the role leisure environments can play in creating safer communities and sharing practical tools to review safeguarding practices.
Throughout the day attendees took part in table discussions, networking and knowledge sharing, creating space to reflect on current practices and explore how we can continue building safe and inclusive environments across the sector.
A huge thank you to all of our speakers, the organisations who joined the marketplace, and to Moira Willerton (Together Active) and Franky Boyland (Active Derbyshire) for helping bring the event to life.
Special thanks to Cara Holland from Graphic Change Ltd, who captured the day through a stunning graphic! 🫶🤩
This is just the start of the conversation. Training, workshops and further support will continue to build on the learning from the day.
If you’d like to find out more about future events or opportunities to get involved, please get in touch.⬇️
Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent: Moira Willerton
moirawillerton@togetheractive.org
Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire : Franky Boyland
franky.boyland@activepartnerstrust.org.uk
