Welcome to the conference page for the People, Place and Policy Conference 2021. The conference this year will be fully online and will now be held over two days between 7 – 8 July. The theme for the conference is Division and Unity and we are delighted that Dr Mia Gray from the University of Cambridge will be delivering the keynote presentation.

Division and Unity

The special theme for the 2021 conference is Division and Unity. There is recognition of the deepening inequalities and divisions characterising many communities across the UK. Within this challenging context, there is a vital role for studies which shine a light on narratives of unity and hope. Academics, practitioners, and activists all have a role to play, whether it is in pursuing inclusive growth, where economic benefits are shared equitably, reinvigorating grassroots mobilisation, or supporting civic action in relation to energy and environmental issues. We also note the divisions caused by the UK’s current housing crisis; the impacts of welfare reform on homelessness; competing visions for the future role of civil society; and the contribution of voluntary and community organisations to public policy goals.