How we build cohesive communities to be explored at University event

Published on 1, April, 2025

In an era of increasing inequality and economic challenges, building cohesive communities has never been more important.

The University of Sunderland’s Institute for Economic and Social Inclusion will explore how this can be achieved at a free public event – Building Stronger Communities: Fostering Cohesion & Inclusion – on Thursday 3 April, 1pm – 2.30pm, at Hope Street Xchange, the University’s City Campus.

The event will bring together academic experts, the voluntary and community sector and the public sector to share their insights and perspectives on how to foster and sustain cohesive and inclusive communities.

Professor of Urban and Regional Planning at University College London (UCL) and leading expert in regional development, John Tomaney, is the event’s keynote speaker. Professor Tomaney’s research examines social, economic, and cultural dynamics that shape communities, particularly in ‘left behind’ areas.

Digital art curator and researcher at the University of Sunderland, Dr Suzy O’Hara, will join a panel of experts alongside Fanni Ngambi from Sunderland-based charity Friends of the Drop-In for Asylum Seekers and Refugees (FODI), Karen Noble from Pallion Action Group, as well as other representatives from the voluntary and community sector and the public sector.

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Dr Robin Finlay is a Social Science Researcher based at the University’s Institute for Economic and Social Inclusion and helped organise the event.

He said: “Strong, inclusive communities foster belonging, reduce inequality and discrimination, and create the foundations for social and economic resilience.

“Against the backdrop of the riots last year and growing inequality and poverty, discussions about social and community cohesion have taken on renewed urgency.

“The University of Sunderland – through the Institute for Economic and Social Inclusion – is committed to strengthening social and community cohesion through research, partnerships, and engagement that address the challenges faced by our communities.

“Attending this event will give you the opportunity to be involved in this important discussion.”

To register your place at Building Stronger Communities: Fostering Cohesion & Inclusion, click here. 

For more information on the University of Sunderland’s Institute for Economic and Social Inclusion, click here.