Briefing and training sessions for civic societies

As we move into spring, many civic societies will be planning their programmes for 2006-7. As you do so you may like to consider one or more of the talks that the Civic Trust for Wales can offer.

Presentations may be tailored to a member meeting, or to the needs of active committee members. Sessions will occupy roughly one and a half hours including opportunities for discussion. The style and content of presentation can be adapted to the particular interests and needs of the group.

Knowledge-based presentations

Conserving the historic environment
With fresh approaches to the relationship between community, townscape and landscape, this presentation will look both at what this may mean in terms of the policy context for civic societies and at the implications for the role societies play at the local level.

Communities and good design
Good design can improve the quality of life for all of us. What do we mean by good design in the context of our communities? How can we recognise it? How can we be proactive in seeking improvements in local design quality?

Planning for a better Wales?
This presentation will explore the relationship between all-Wales strategies, planning policy and development plans. It will discuss ways in which civic societies can be proactive in local plan-making.

Conservation areas
Conservation areas in theory and in practice.
 

Skills-based presentations

Open Doors days and us
A number of civic societies have gained experience by taking part in Open Doors, Wales' contribution to European Heritage Days. This session focuses on the opportunities and benefits for civic societies and provides advice on organisation, marketing and interpretation — ensuring that visitors both enjoy and learn from your event.

Getting into print
Designing and publishing leaflets, flyers and newsletters. How can we communicate effectively in print with our members and the general public?

Societies on line
Using the Internet for research and communication. This presentation will consider on line resources to support your work, take a look at the possibilities for society web sites and consider some basic aspects of web design.

Sessions will be run by Dr Matthew Griffiths. Dr Griffiths is director of the Civic Trust for Wales and a trainer, teacher and lecturer with over two decades’ experience in adult and continuing education at all levels. Civic societies benefit from this free service as part of the support provided to the Trust by Cadw, the Welsh Assembly Government's historic environment service.

The Trust is willing to offer versions of these presentations to other voluntary groups. Depending on circumstances we may make a small charge to cover our costs.