IMPACT20: The National Conversation

Delegates drawn from business, local communities and local and regional government in the South West took part in a two-hour IMPACT20 roundtable conversation.  Jointly funded by the Cabinet Office and DCMS the aim of the eight regional roundtable conversations was to inspire collaboration, innovation and determination to make the UK a better place to live and thrive.  Lord-Lieutenant Mrs Peaches Golding OBE was one of the keynote speakers.  ’Three areas where I would focus energy are education, jobs and housing,’ Peaches proposed. ‘Firstly, education can foster creativity, curiosity, debate and respectful challenge.  Secondly, the pandemic has taught us to value those working in essential and key worker roles more ever than before. Many jobs of the future will require greater technical and more customer service skills.  Thirdly, the demand for better insulated and more sustainable housing with green spaces available for people of all ages to enjoy and use is expanding. Walkably distanced hubs for housing, work, recreation and relaxation are good for mental and physical health.  Personally, I value highly kind leadership. Overall, the pandemic has provided an enormous opportunity for people from all background and heritages, able-bodied or not, younger or mature to increase cohesion and justice, harness creativity, and demonstrate care and compassion for those most vulnerable around us.