President's Update

This blog page features updates from ADEPT's President, Angela Jones.

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President update 2nd March - latest news from ADEPT

Hello everyone,

As we head into March, I have several important updates to share with you.

Firstly, I’d like to congratulate Andrew Cook on his appointment as Chief Executive at Suffolk County Council from 1st April. As a result, Andrew will no longer take up the ADEPT Presidency next year - I’m very grateful to Katie Stewart, our 2nd Vice President, who has agreed to step into the role of ADEPT President one year early, from May 2026.

We have now shared ADEPT’s draft Strategic Plan 2026-29, Making Better Places, with members and corporate partners for comment, including feedback on the proposed title, values and strategic priorities. Please send any comments to us by Friday 13th March. We will launch the final document at the Spring Conference.

We’ve been busy coordinating ADEPT’s response to the government’s extensive consultation on changes to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), drawing on expertise from across our boards and working groups. Thank you to everyone who has contributed so far.

I'm delighted to announce that ADEPT, in partnership with the Yorkshire & Humber Climate Commission, is today publishing An Introduction to Talking Climate, a practical, evidence based guide for public sector communicators. The guide draws on research to help move away from jargon and towards accessible, benefit-focused messaging - covering everything from framing local successes to addressing misinformation. It's free to access and designed as a quick reference tool for busy communicators, signposting to wider research and resources – read the guide here.

Bookings are now open for the ADEPT Spring Conference and Annual Awards Dinner on 13th May at One Great George Street, Westminster. This year's theme is Leading Local Places Through Change and we're delighted to announce Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood MP as our keynote speaker. To see the full programme and book your place, see here.

And a final reminder about the ADEPT President's Awards - if you're yet to submit an entry, now is the time! I know many of you are leading truly outstanding projects that demonstrate real innovation and impact - the awards are a wonderful platform to highlight this exceptional work. Entries close this Friday 6th March – find out more.

For more updates on ADEPT's latest news, publications, and the work of our boards and groups, visit our website: www.adeptnet.org.uk

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More posts

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