Christmas Community Connections: Civic Networking & Lightning Talks

Celebrating relationships, community and collaboration across Portsmouth. Civic Networking Event: Christmas Community Connections In collaboration with the Relational and Restorative Community of Inquiry Date: Wednesday 9th December 2026 Time: 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm Location: University Learning Centre, 4th Floor, Room 4.19, University of Portsmouth Join us for a special festive edition of our Civic Networking Event, hosted in collaboration with the Relational and Restorative Community of Inquiry, as we celebrate the importance of relationships, community and collaboration across Portsmouth. This event brings together local residents, community organisations, charities, practitioners, researchers and University colleagues to share experiences, make new connections and celebrate the fantastic work happening across our communities. Through a series of short community lightning talks and festive networking, we'll explore how relational and restorative approaches can help strengthen relationships, support communities and create opportunities for collaboration. What to Expect Celebrating 30 Years of Portsmouth Mediation Service We're delighted to shine a spotlight on Portsmouth Mediation Service, celebrating 30 years of supporting communities through mediation, conflict resolution and relationship-building. Our headline talk will explore the importance of relationships, managing conflict and supporting community wellbeing. Community Lightning Talks Hear a series of short, engaging talks from local organisations, community projects and researchers sharing their work, experiences and ideas. We're hoping to hear contributions from Portsmouth City Council, the Health Determinants Research Collaboration (HDRC), Common Ground, Portsmouth Youth and more, exploring themes including: • Restorative practice in our communities. • Relational approaches to research and community engagement. • Community-led initiatives and asset-based approaches. • Supporting young people and strengthening community connections. Each talk will last just 4–5 minutes, offering a snapshot of the work happening across Portsmouth and opportunities to connect and collaborate. Full speaker details will be confirmed shortly. Festive Relational Networking Networking is at the heart of this event! We'll be introducing a festive networking activity inspired by relational and restorative practice, encouraging everyone to meet someone new, share experiences and make meaningful connections. 💡 Why Attend? • Discover local initiatives: Hear about community projects and the people making a difference across Portsmouth. • Explore relational and restorative practice: Learn how relationship-centred approaches can support stronger, more connected communities. • Make new connections: Meet people from across the University, local organisations, charities and the wider community. • Explore opportunities for collaboration: Share ideas, experiences and possibilities for working together. • Celebrate our communities: Come together for a festive afternoon of conversation, connection and community spirit. About the Relational and Restorative Community of Inquiry The Relational and Restorative Community of Inquiry brings together people from different organisations, professions and communities who share an interest in strengthening relationships and exploring relational and restorative approaches in practice. Through shared learning, reflection and dialogue, the Community of Inquiry creates opportunities to explore how relationships can support individuals, organisations and communities. This joint event is also an opportunity for anyone interested in the Community of Inquiry to meet existing members and find out more about getting involved. We hope you can join us for an afternoon of community, conversation and festive connections! Please feel free to share this invitation with colleagues, community organisations and anyone who may be interested. 🥂 Fine Festive Food & Fizz – Kindly sponsored by Portsmouth Mediation Service (PMS). This is a free event and everyone is welcome!