Convening the Bank of England in Durham

Around the table, charity leaders shared candid accounts of the pressures facing local families as living costs continue to rise, and the strain on organisations striving to deliver essential services in an increasingly challenging funding environment. Their testimony provided a vivid picture of local realities, offering context and nuance that statistics alone cannot convey.

For local funders such as ourselves, these direct conversations are invaluable. They offer an opportunity to hear first-hand of the challenges and experiences that may not always be captured through formal reports or updates. This insight strengthens our understanding of the sector and informs the support we provide.

Equally, when policymakers hear directly from those delivering support on the ground, their decisions become more grounded in reality and lived experience.

We thank all the charity leaders, health experts, and educators who contributed to the discussion and joined us on the day. Your perspectives were at the heart of this forum, and their influence will extend far beyond this morning’s discussion.

A special thank you to Radisson Blu Durham for providing a welcoming space and for generously supporting us in bringing this event to County Durham. 

By connecting local people, organisations, and decision-makers, Point North continues to play a leading role in ensuring that County Durham and Tees Valley are not only heard but understood, and that local perspectives help shape broader policy conversations.