Places have sold out for the Active Sussex Conference 2026, which is taking place on Tuesday, September 29 at the University of Sussex, Falmer (Please note: change of venue from previously advertised). A waiting list is now open.
When: Tuesday, September 29, 10am-2pm
Where: University of Sussex, Falmer
The conference will focus on the creation of healthier, more active communities through place, partnership and systems change, with internationally recognised designer, placemaker and social entrepreneur Wayne Hemingway MBE confirmed as the keynote speaker.
Wayne will explore how the design of our places, neighbourhoods and communities shapes opportunities for people to move more in their everyday lives. Drawing on inspiring examples from across the UK and internationally, he’ll demonstrate how creative placemaking, community-led design and cross-sector collaboration can improve health, wellbeing and social connection.
The keynote will also give delegates the opportunity to learn about Wayne’s latest project – the National Festival of Play, which HemmingwayDesign have recently launched alongside Creative Crawley.
Subsequent sessions will look at the local learnings from the Defiant Sports Hub, and how co-design and community engagement have led to more inclusive spaces and opportunities; and Karen Poole (Clinical Lead – Rehabilitation, NHS Sussex & Surrey) will join Active Sussex’s Ross Joannides to discuss the process, innovation and impact of the East Sussex Re-Conditioning Programme.
Doors will open at 9.15am, allowing plenty of time to catch up over a coffee, before the conference formally begins at 10am. To wrap up the day, a networking lunch will be provided, concluding at 2pm.
Places are £30 and include arrival refreshments, tea/coffee throughout the day, and lunch. Bookings are taken on a first-come, first-served basis and have sold out quickly in recent years, so please book as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.