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ACO Annual Conference 2024: 12 September

ACO’s key annual (in-person) event, bringing together colleagues from charities across the sector that provide financial and wellbeing support to individuals.

Start:
12th September 2024 / 09:30AM End:
12th September 2024 / 05:00PM
BMA House, Tavistock Square, London.

ACO 2024 Annual Conference: New Horizons

The ACO 2024 Annual Conference: New Horizons, sponsored by CCLA, was a dynamic event that brought together professionals from across the charity sector, focusing on navigating post-election uncertainties and adapting to economic challenges. Held on 12 September at BMA House, London, the conference centred around collaboration, innovation, and resilience in the face of increasing community needs.

Key Highlights:

  • Opening Address: Donal Watkin, Chief Executive of ACO, set the tone by emphasising the importance of embracing change amidst economic and societal shifts.
  • Tools for Change: Amy Browne from CCLA discussed responsible investment strategies for creating a positive societal impact.
  • Panel on Innovation: Chaired by Jodie Gill (Chief Operating Officer, caba) leaders Tom Lawson (CEO, Turn2Us), Shona Fleming (CEO, Scotscare), Cristian Holmes (CEO, caba) and Anna Dearden (Manager, Chemists’ Community Fund) shared insights on re-imagining financial and wellbeing support.
  • Breakout Session: A discussion on overcoming stigma and improving access to support services.
  • Data-Driven Transformation: Tania Cohen of 360Giving showcased how data is revolutionising the charity landscape.
  • AI for Charities: James Gadsby Peet highlighted practical AI tools, including ChatGPT, to streamline operations.
  • Campaigns Showcase: Inspiring initiatives like Vetlife’s Neurodiversity Awareness, Licensed Trade Charity Because Everyone Needs a Little TLC campaign to encourage industry professionals to access support when in need and the National Benevolent Charity’s Domestic Abuse campaign were celebrated.
  • Staff Burnout: Stuart Milliner from Merrifield Consultants provided strategies to tackle burnout within the charity workforce.

The event concluded with the 2024 ACO Awards Ceremony and a reception, offering a chance for networking and celebrating outstanding contributions within the sector.

The day emphasised adaptability, digital transformation, and innovation as crucial tools for the future of charity work.

Please stay connected with us through our website and social media channels for updates on future events, resources, and opportunities. We look forward to seeing you again at our upcoming events.

Conference Paperwork