The Big Issue Big Debate

The Big Debate - Let Your Voice Be Heard

The event marks the ending of The Big Community week - Big Issue's time spent in Newcastle learning about the city and building for the future

Date: October 3rd, 2024
Location: The Common Room, Neville Hall, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE.

Chaired by Big Issue UK editor Paul McNamee, this open forum will feature local leaders from business, politics, culture, and grassroots activism.

Big Issue founder John, Lord Bird MBE, will be present. John overcame poverty to become a leading activist, business leader, and Crossbench member of the House of Lords. He founded The Big Issue Group, starting with the revolutionary and now iconic street paper, and building to incorporate much more. Big Issue uses enterprise to tackle poverty and homelessness. In Parliament, he focuses on poverty prevention and co-chairs the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Business Response to Social Crises.

Also on the panel is Charlotte Windebank, Managing Director and co-founder of FIRST, who is dedicated to empowering underrepresented communities through entrepreneurship and driving social value across the region.

Earl Charlton, a former Big Issue vendor and now inspirational figure in the North East.

Catrina McHugh MBE, joint CEO and Artistic Director of Open Clasp, creates award-winning theatre that transforms lives. Her work, including Key Change and Rattle Snake, earned her an MBE in 2017.

Nick Hartley (Cllr), elected as one of Newcastle’s first Green Party councillors in May, represents the Byker ward and works as a Clinical Psychologist in the NHS. His motivation for joining the Green Party stems from recognising the social and economic roots of mental ill-health.

Our final panellist will be...

James Baxter, a Sunderland native, is known for his diverse roles in theatre and television, including standout performances in "Scarborough" at the Edinburgh Fringe and the BBC's Still Open All Hours. Currently appearing as Deputy Head Joe Casey in BBC One's Waterloo Road, James is also developing projects with a focus on representing Sunderland's voice and providing opportunities for young talent in TV.

This is your opportunity to ask pressing questions, raise local issues, and propose ideas for change. We encourage you to submit your questions in advance and be part of the conversation that shapes Newcastle’s future. Email questions to [email protected] or see below for details on how to submit via this page.

Why Attend?

• Hear from influential local voices and changemakers
• Learn how you can get involved with Big Issue’s community-led initiatives
• Be part of the movement for positive social and economic change
• Network with key stakeholders working to create local solutions

Let’s come together to build a future where no one is left behind. Secure your spot for The Big Debate now and be a part of the conversation that could change your community for the better.

Tickets: Free, but limited – reserve now!

Host or Publisher Big Issue