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X-WR-CALNAME:Difference North East
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://differencenortheast.org.uk
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Difference North East
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250619T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250619T120000
DTSTAMP:20260420T152000
CREATED:20250613T131107Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250613T131107Z
UID:4983-1750327200-1750334400@differencenortheast.org.uk
SUMMARY:Disability Green Paper Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Have Your Say on Health & Disability Benefits! Disability Green Paper Workshop \nDo you or someone you care about receive health or disability benefits??\nThe Government is proposing changes\, and your lived experience is critical to shaping what happens next. This isn’t just another consultation; it’s your chance to directly influence policy and fight for a system that works for YOU.\n How? Join our Disability Green Paper Workshop and share your story\, frustrations\, and ideas. No expertise needed: just your truth.\n Why? Because decisions made without disabled voices aren’t decisions worth making. Let’s make sure they listen.\n Get involved! Contact Bex at bex@differencenortheast.org.uk or hannah.cooper@newcastlecab.org.uk / 07776955646 for more details! Limited spots: don’t miss out!
URL:https://differencenortheast.org.uk/event/disability-green-paper-workshop/
LOCATION:The City Library\, 33 New Bridge Street West\, Newcastle upon Tyne\, NE1 8AX\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Policy
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://differencenortheast.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/grean-paper3vent.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250523T103000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250523T123000
DTSTAMP:20260420T152000
CREATED:20250501T104056Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250506T100804Z
UID:4836-1747996200-1748003400@differencenortheast.org.uk
SUMMARY:Share ideas to improve shops\, venues & services in Darlington
DESCRIPTION:From PIP assessments to high street shops\, life is not designed with everyone in mind\, many Darlington services aren’t either and are frustrating to use. If you’ve ever left a venue because there was nowhere to sit\, or felt exhausted by systems that don’t accommodate you\, join this chat\, which will be looking for solutions together! How would you improve shops venues & services in Darlington? \nOn Friday 23rd May (10:30am-12:30pm) at the Dolphin Centre (with Changing Places toilet)\, Difference North East and Darlington Association on Disability are hosting a 10-person discussion to: \n\n\nMap common problems: Poor seating\, confusing forms\, rushed staff \n\n\nBrainstorm fixes: “What would make this easier?” \n\n\nShare anonymized insights with decision-makers\, to improve shops venues & services in Darlington \n\n\n“You don’t need a diagnosis to know what doesn’t work. We’re here to amplify those everyday perspectives.” \nKey info:\n📅 Date: Friday 23rd May\, 10:30am-12:30pm\n📍 Venue: Dolphin Centre\, Horse Market\n🔒 Limited: 10 attendees for in-depth conversation\n📧 Book: Email claire@differencenortheast.org.uk \nYour frustration is evidence\, not a personal failing.
URL:https://differencenortheast.org.uk/event/improve-shops-venues-services-darlington/
LOCATION:Dolphin Centre\, Horse Market\, Darlington\, DL1 5RP\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Accessibility
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://differencenortheast.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/darlington2.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250522T120000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250522T130000
DTSTAMP:20260420T152000
CREATED:20250501T122854Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250501T123505Z
UID:4840-1747915200-1747918800@differencenortheast.org.uk
SUMMARY:Amble Chat: What Would Make Life Here Easier?
DESCRIPTION:For Amble folk who find some days harder than they need to be!\nMaybe you’ve noticed: the bus timetable doesn’t quite work for hospital days. There’s never a bench when you need one. Or some shops are trickier to get around than others. These small things add up. That’s why we’re hosting a friendly\, informal chat at Dry Water Arts on Thursday 22nd May (12-1pm). Just 10 of us sitting down to for an Amble community access discussion: \n\n\nShare what works (and what doesn’t) around Amble and Northumberland \n\n\nSwap tips for getting things done more easily \n\n\nSuggest simple improvements that would help \n\n\nThis isn’t about official complaints or labels\, it’s about making our town work better for everyone. Your thoughts will be passed on (anonymously) to the right people. \n“In small places like ours\, changes happen when locals speak up. Even little things\, like more benches by the shops\, can make a big difference.” \nJoin us if you’ve…\n\never thought “Why isn’t this simpler?” about local places\ngot 60 minutes to share over a cuppa\nlive in or near Amble\n\n Amble Community Access Discussion Details:\n📅 When: Thursday 22nd May 12pm to 1pm\n📍 Where: Dry Water Arts (easy access\, ground floor room)\n🔒 Spaces: Just 10—so we all get time to talk\n📧 Book: Email bex@differencenortheast.org.uk \nThere’s no need to explain why you’re coming. If this speaks to you\, then you belong here.
URL:https://differencenortheast.org.uk/event/amble-community-access-discussion/
LOCATION:Drywater Arts Centre\, The Workshop\, Wellwood Street\, Amble\, NE65 0FG
CATEGORIES:Accessibility
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://differencenortheast.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/AMBME.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250521T133000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250521T150000
DTSTAMP:20260420T152000
CREATED:20250430T162713Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250506T113335Z
UID:4833-1747834200-1747839600@differencenortheast.org.uk
SUMMARY:Gateshead daily challenges discussion! Booking required
DESCRIPTION:Gateshead daily challenges discussion! Ever notice how something as simple as popping to the library or catching a bus can feel needlessly difficult? If you’ve had to plan your day around avoiding stairs\, standing too long\, or spaces that don’t work for you\, this session is a chance to share what Gateshead could improve. \nOn Wednesday 21st May (2-3pm) at Gateshead Central Library\, we’re hosting a small discussion for 10 people to talk about: \n\n\nPublic spaces: Libraries\, shops\, or cafes that are tricky to navigate \n\n\nTransport: Buses\, parking\, or footpaths that create barriers \n\n\nEveryday frustrations: Times you’ve thought\, “Why isn’t this easier?” \n\n\nThis isn’t about campaigns or labels\, just real talk about making Gateshead work better for everyone and a discussion of your daily challenges. Your anonymized feedback will help local services understand where changes are needed most. \n“People often blame themselves when spaces don’t accommodate them\,” says the session facilitator. “We’re flipping that—how can spaces adapt instead?” \nDetails:\n📅 Date: Wednesday 21st May\, 2-3pm\n📍 Venue: Gateshead Central Library (step-free access)\n🔒 Spaces: 10 max to allow proper discussion\n📧 Book: Email bex@differentenortheast.org.uk \nNo need to explain why you’re coming—your experiences matter.
URL:https://differencenortheast.org.uk/event/gateshead-daily-challenges-discussion-booking-required/
LOCATION:Gateshead Central Library\, Prince Consort Rd\, Gateshead\, NE8 4LN\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://differencenortheast.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/gateshead2.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250514T110000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250514T130000
DTSTAMP:20260420T152000
CREATED:20250430T130807Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250501T102346Z
UID:4829-1747220400-1747227600@differencenortheast.org.uk
SUMMARY:Stockton Health & Everyday Challenges Discussion
DESCRIPTION:Ever feel like everyday tasks—shopping\, working\, or getting healthcare—are harder for you than others? Then you should come to our Stockton health challenges discussion! You might put it down to “just how life is\,” but those frustrations often point to real problems that need fixing. \nDifference North East is hosting a small\, informal discussion on Wednesday 14th May (11am-1pm) at the Wellbeing Hub in Stockton to explore these challenges. In partnership with NeuroKey\, we’re bringing together just 10 people to share: \n\n\nPhysical spaces: Shops with no seating\, overwhelming lighting/noise \n\n\nWork or education: Inflexible policies\, misunderstood needs \n\n\nHealthcare gaps: Long waits\, dismissive attitudes \n\n\nThis isn’t about labels. It’s a chance for a discussion of health and other challenges in Stockton: \n\n\nCompare notes with others who “get it” \n\n\nIdentify patterns (e.g.\, “Why do so many struggle with X?”) \n\n\nSuggest practical improvements for Stockton \n\n\n“Many people quietly adapt to systems that don’t work for them. We want to hear what would actually help.” \nYour anonymized feedback will be shared with Stockton businesses and services to highlight common issues. \nDetails:\n📅 Date: Wednesday 14th May\, 11am-1pm\n📍 Venue: Wellbeing Hub\, Wellington Square (quiet space available)\n🔒 Spaces: 10 max to ensure everyone is heard\n📧 Book: Email claire@differencenortheast.org.uk with your name \nNo need to explain or justify your experiences—just come as you are.
URL:https://differencenortheast.org.uk/event/stockton-health-challenges-meetup-may2025/
LOCATION:Wellbeing Hub\, Wellbeing Hub\, 5 Wellington Sq\, Stockton-on-Tees\, TS18 1RG\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://differencenortheast.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/stockton.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250513T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250513T150000
DTSTAMP:20260420T152000
CREATED:20250430T124054Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T124231Z
UID:4818-1747141200-1747148400@differencenortheast.org.uk
SUMMARY:Everyday struggles in Hartlepool? Let’s talk solutions- Life in Hartlepool
DESCRIPTION:What are your everyday struggles in Hartlepool? Living in Hartlepool with a health condition or mobility difficulty can make everyday tasks needlessly frustrating. Have you struggled with buses that don’t wait long enough\, GP surgeries that aren’t understanding\, or shops without seating? You’re not alone. \n \nDifference North East is hosting a small\, informal discussion on Tuesday 13th May (1-3pm) at Central Hub (which has a Changing Places toilet) to map out these local challenges. Co-hosted with CLIP\, a Hartlepool-based organization that supports community voices\, we’re bringing together just 10 people to share their everyday struggles in Hartlepool: \n\n\nTransport struggles: Buses\, parking\, or footpath access? \n\n\nHealthcare experiences: GP appointments\, hospital visits\, Telecare services? \n\n\nPublic attitudes: Times you’ve felt judged or misunderstood? \n\n\nThis is a chance to problem-solve over tea and biscuits. Your anonymized feedback will be shared with local services to highlight where changes are needed most. Read what we’ll talk about here! \n“We hear so many stories about Hartlepool residents skipping appointments because transport is unreliable\, or avoiding shops with no seating. This session will help us pinpoint practical fixes.” \nDate: Tuesday 13th May\, 1-3pm\nVenue: Central Hub (Changing Places toilet)\nCo-host: CLIP\nSpaces: 10 max\nBook: Email claire@differentenortheast.org.uk \n“A relaxed space to share what works—and what doesn’t—in our community.”
URL:https://differencenortheast.org.uk/event/everyday-struggles-in-hartlepool/
LOCATION:Community Hub Central\, 124 York Rd\, Hartlepool TS26 9DE\, Community Hub Central\, 124 York Rd\, Hartlepool\, TS26 9DE\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Accessibility
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://differencenortheast.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/oneofthosedays21.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250401T103000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250401T130000
DTSTAMP:20260420T152000
CREATED:20240110T162030Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250401T095944Z
UID:4405-1743503400-1743512400@differencenortheast.org.uk
SUMMARY:Power & Influence: Disabled Women in the North East
DESCRIPTION:When the new North East Mayoral Combined Authority (NEMCA) comes into being in 2024\, it will be responsible for the aspirations and life chances of over one million women and girls. The 7 North East local authorities (County Durham\, Sunderland\, South Tyneside\, Gateshead\, North Tyneside\, Northumberland\, and Newcastle) will join to have responsibility for key areas of policy including: economic development; adult education and skills; transport; housing and regeneration. \nWe know that Disabled women are severely underrepresented in decision-making. We also know that Disabled women’s needs are often misunderstood in women’s organisations but are also underrepresented in disabled-led organisations too! \nThe One Million Women and Girls Campaign wants a future North East to maximise the potential of Women and Girls in the region. Difference NE want a Disability Devolution for the North East where Disabled people are included in decision-making and disability justice is prioritised. We are working together to make sure that Disabled women have voice and influence over what matters to them. \nWe advocate taking an intersectional approach to maximising the potential of all Disabled women and girls which means listening to the lived experience of any marginalised group\, including; lesbians\, bisexual and trans women; migrant women; older and younger women; pregnant women; racially marginalised women; and working class women. This campaign is trans-inclusive.
URL:https://differencenortheast.org.uk/event/power-and-influence-disabled-women-in-the-north-east/
LOCATION:The Word\, South Shields\, Market Pl\, South Shields\, NE33 1JF
CATEGORIES:Online,Hybrid,Women,NEMCA
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250225T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250225T190000
DTSTAMP:20260420T152000
CREATED:20250114T170820Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250328T085717Z
UID:3840-1740506400-1740510000@differencenortheast.org.uk
SUMMARY:What Do You Need from a Home?
DESCRIPTION:What Do You Need from a Home?\nDate: 25th February 2025 | Time: 6PM – 7PM | Where: Online via Zoom | Accessibility: BSL interpretation and live captions provided | Housing and Accessibility \nJoin us for the next event in our Members Make the Difference series: What Do You Need from a Home? Housing and Accessibility. This is your chance to shape the conversation around housing and accessibility by sharing your experiences\, concerns\, and ideas. \nWhether it’s adapting your current home\, navigating the private rental sector\, securing social housing\, or imagining what truly accessible housing looks like—we want to hear from you. Together\, we’ll explore: \n\nWhat makes a home truly accessible and inclusive?\nChallenges and solutions in the private rental sector\, including precarious tenancies and rising rents.\nThe state of social housing and how it can meet diverse needs.\n\nThis facilitated\, collaborative discussion is a space for members to connect\, learn\, and share. Your insights will inform our campaigns and advocacy work on housing—making a real difference for disabled people across the region. \nHousing and Accessibility – Why Attend?\n\nShare your experiences and shape the conversation.\nConnect with other members who share your concerns and ideas.\nHelp influence future events and campaigns focused on housing and accessibility.\n\nNot a member yet? Join Difference North East to participate in this event and other opportunities to make your voice heard. When you join via this link\, www.differencenortheast.org.uk/join-us\, you’ll receive the registration link to sign up for the event. \nSign up now to reserve your place\, and don’t forget to check out other events in the Members Make the Difference series. \n\nStay Connected: Follow us on Facebook\, Instagram\, Twitter\, and Bluesky for updates and reminders. \nLet’s work together to create housing that works for everyone. We can’t wait to see you there! \n  \n  \n 
URL:https://differencenortheast.org.uk/event/what-do-you-need-from-home/
LOCATION:Online via Zoom
CATEGORIES:Online,Housing,Accessibility
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://differencenortheast.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/aaaa.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250128T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250128T190000
DTSTAMP:20260420T152000
CREATED:20250114T140333Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250328T090310Z
UID:3797-1738087200-1738090800@differencenortheast.org.uk
SUMMARY:Building a Better System? Members Talk PIP\, WCA\, and Employment
DESCRIPTION:Members Make the Difference Series: Building Change Together\nJoin us for an open discussion where your experiences and insights take centre stage. This month\, we’re focusing on Personal Independence Payment (PIP)\, Work Capability Assessments (WCA)\, and employment challenges. \nWhat to Expect:\n\nHear from fellow members about their lived experiences.\nShare your thoughts on what works\, what doesn’t\, and what needs to change about work.\nContribute to conversations that will help shape the future policy priorities of Difference North East.\n\nThis facilitated session will last one hour\, with breakout groups if attendance allows. It’s a space for open\, honest\, and empowering conversations that reflect our shared commitment to community\, solidarity\, and change. \nWho Can Attend?\nThis event is exclusively for members. Not a member yet? Join us today and become part of a supportive network working for a fairer\, more accessible future. \nAccessibility:\nWe are committed to ensuring everyone can participate fully. BSL interpretation and live captions will be provided. \nWhat’s Next?\nYour contributions will help shape the ongoing conversations and policies within our “Members Make the Difference” series. We’ll follow up with a survey and share key takeaways in an upcoming blog post. \n 
URL:https://differencenortheast.org.uk/event/building-a-better-system-pip-wca-and-employment/
LOCATION:Online via Zoom
CATEGORIES:Online,Cost of Living
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://differencenortheast.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/20230927_113045.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20241204T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20241204T190000
DTSTAMP:20260420T152000
CREATED:20241024T152046Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250328T090732Z
UID:2645-1733335200-1733338800@differencenortheast.org.uk
SUMMARY:Online Talk: Mary Greaves\, Local Disability Hero
DESCRIPTION:As part of Disability History Month Christopher Hartworth will be delivering a presentation and talk about Mary Greaves\, a Disability Activist from Whitley Bay who was involved in lobbying for the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970. \nMembers only event. Sign up here and we will contact you with the link. \nThis event will be held on zoom. You might find these resources helpful. \nIf you require any adjustments to attend Difference North East events\, please let us know by emailing hello@differencenortheast.org.uk or by phone/text/whatsapp to 07304061207.
URL:https://differencenortheast.org.uk/event/online-talk-mary-greaves-local-disability-hero/
CATEGORIES:Online,Women
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20241126T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20241126T190000
DTSTAMP:20260420T152000
CREATED:20241024T151542Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250328T090842Z
UID:2637-1732644000-1732647600@differencenortheast.org.uk
SUMMARY:Online Event: Members Make the Difference
DESCRIPTION:As part of Disability History Month the Difference staff team invite you to join us for a discussion about the film ‘The Barbara met Alan. This film is about Barbara Lisicki and Alan Holdsworth\, the founders of DAN (Disabled People’s Direct Action Network) and actions that led to more rights for Disabled People in the UK. BSL will be provided at this online event. \nMembers only event. Sign up here and we will contact you with the link. \nThis event will be held on zoom. You might find these resources helpful. \nNote on bottom of every event. \nIf you require any adjustments to attend Difference North East events\, please let us know by emailing hello@differencenortheast.org.uk or by phone/text/whatsapp to 07304061207. \n 
URL:https://differencenortheast.org.uk/event/online-event-members-make-the-difference/
CATEGORIES:Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://differencenortheast.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/membersmakethedifference-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20241022T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20241022T193000
DTSTAMP:20260420T152000
CREATED:20241024T150250Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250328T091019Z
UID:2628-1729620000-1729625400@differencenortheast.org.uk
SUMMARY:Online Event: Neurodivergence Training
DESCRIPTION:Curious about Neurodivergence? Join us for a special online training session. Learn the basics\, gain insights and give us your feedback so we can improve this training for others. \nMembers only event. Sign up here and we will contact you with the link. \nThis event will be held on zoom. You might find these resources helpful.
URL:https://differencenortheast.org.uk/event/introduction-to-neurodivergence-training/
CATEGORIES:Online,Neurodiversity
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://differencenortheast.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Neurodivergence-training.jpg
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