A national network maximising the impact of civic universities in their place
The Civic University Network is led by Sheffield Hallam University, and supports universities across the UK to develop and embed civic aspirations at an institutional level, particularly through developing and publishing Civic University Agreements.
We work with governments and strategic partners to ensure that a university’s geographic role and responsibility is used more effectively as an agent to drive positive societal change.
Our programme of work includes webinars delivering practical support , virtual case study showcases, and in-depth analysis of opportunities for – and barriers to – maximising civic impact.
Upcoming and recent events
CiviCon22: Universities Working in Partnership - a Week of #TrulyCivic Events
13 - 16 June 2022CiviCon22: Universities Working in Partnership was a week of free, virtual events for anyone with an interest in the civic movement, which aimed to:
- provide an understanding of the key national, regional, and local policy landscapes within which universities can make a difference and have an influence
- challenge thinking and shape future collaborative conversations
Civic missions and societal challenges: what does it mean in Wales and Scotland?
9 May 2022This event provided universities engaged in civic work with an overview of the development of the civic agenda in Wales and Scotland, the place-based interpretation of policy and community collaboration, and the associated challenges and opportunities.
Ahead of the session, a blog has been co-created by colleagues from both nations and can be read here.
Connecting Civic to Climate Action
22 March 2022Our planned outcomes
- Widespread good practice is accelerating the civic agenda
Increased alignment and greater coherence in policy funding levers for civic activity
Civic roles will be informed by an evidence based analysis of the needs of the place, developed with local partners and informed by the voice of the community
Latest news
Civic University Agreement Launch: Queen Mary University of London opening the doors of opportunity to East London and beyond
Queen Mary University of London is a large organisation rooted in place, always striving to be the best anchor institution it can be. Their Civic University Agreement brings together [...]
Civic University Agreement Launch: Aston strengthen role in local community
Aston University celebrated the official launch of its civic agreement with strategic partners from the city and region at an event hosted by Aston Villa Football Club on Wednesday 8 [...]
Civic mission in Wales & Scotland: context, community and collective challenges in civic space
Ahead of a webinar event taking place on 9th May 2022 exploring the development of the civic agenda in Wales and Scotland, Professor Claire Taylor, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and [...]
Going Further and Higher: How collaboration between colleges and universities can transform lives and places
A new report calling for greater collaboration between colleges and universities sets out recommendations for governments and sector leaders to support regional priorities and deliver UK-wide economic recovery.Over the past [...]