Insights and impact

Insights from our work, including social impact summaries, consultation findings and reflections on placemaking, belonging and community life.

Three people sitting around a circular table. A woman in an orange jacket is holding a pink microphone and covering her mouth, smiling. A woman with glasses and a striped shirt, and a man with a beard and black jacket holding a yellow cup, are in the background.

Talkaoke 

February 2026, Republic

Last week we hosted the second Talkaoke Hosting Workshop by The People Speak at Republic and more are planned. This is a pioneering approach to holding community conversations, helping people speak confidently, listen well and engage respectfully with others. You can book onto up and coming Talkeoe’s here.

Group of women and girls posing with books in a bright indoor space with large windows.

Civic Universities

January 2026, Republic

On a shared, multi-university campus, what we’ve learned is that some of the most meaningful civic impact comes from the ordinary, ongoing stuff - like opening up shared space for community use out of hours, backing grassroots activity through small grants, and designing campus moments that make it easier for students and local partners to meet and build trust over time. 

People gathered outdoors at a pride event, some holding children, with rainbow-themed accessories and decorations.

Family Pride

June 2025, The Great Northern

Delivered in partnership with Proud 2 b Parents is Proud Fest! A safe, welcoming space for LGBTQ+ families to celebrate together and feel part of the Manchester Pride festivities. We’re delighted Great Northern could play its part in celebrating Pride in such a family-friendly and inclusive way.

Two people standing in front of a large mural of a woman wearing sunglasses on a brick wall.

Music for the Senses

July 2025, The Great Northern

Two stunning new murals have anded at the Great Northern as part of the Music For the Senses – an immersive art trail celebrating Manchester’s rich musical heritage and creative culture. Lookout for a striking portrait of Manchester legend DJ Paulette and the vibrant ‘Sonic Bloom’ mural by a London-based artist EPOD.

More about our approach