This event offers a unique opportunity for the Voluntary, Community, and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector to engage with mayoral candidates as they lay out their visions, priorities and strategies for the future of Greater Manchester.

The hustings is an opportunity to hear how candidates intend to work with the VCSE sector to strengthen cross-sector partnerships and keep driving change for the people of Greater Manchester; to support this, a celebration of the achievements of the sector will take place before the candidates address attendees.

During registration, attendees will have the opportunity to submit a question for a Q&A session. Questions will be selected to cover an array of VCSE issues and to ensure the session remains focused and efficient.

The event agenda includes networking, allowing attendees to connect with like-minded individuals, and refreshments.

Agenda (timings subject to change)
10.30 – 11.30: Refreshments and networking
11.30 – 12.00: VCSE introduction and celebration
12.00 – 12.20: Speeches from candidates
12.20 – 13.00: Q&A session
13.00 – 13.15: Closing statements from candidates
13.15 – 13.30: Closing remarks from chair

This event is open to all VCSE organisations in Greater Manchester, and we encourage attendance from grassroots organisations no matter how small. Your voice matters in shaping the future of our communities. Do not miss this opportunity to be a part of the conversation at the VCSE Greater Manchester Metro Mayor Hustings.

Please follow this link to register.

We encourage you to register your attendance in advance as there will be no walk-in places.

Registration closes on 21st April 11:59pm.

Candidates in attendance:

Labour – Andy Burnham

Liberal Democrats – Jake Austin

Green – Astrid Johnson is attending as a substitute for candidate Hannah Spencer, as Hannah is unable to attend due to work commitments. Astrid Johnson is the leader of the Green Party Group on Manchester City Council.

Candidates invited that are unable to attend:

Conservative – Laura Evans is unable to attend due to prior commitment