 Newcastle 2008: Looking to the Future
Northumbria University 10-11 September 2008
This year's BASE conference takes place at Newcastle's Northumbria University. The event is kindly sponsored by Newcastle City Council and Northumbria University's Centre for Public Policy.
The conference, entitled "Looking to the Future",will examine the impact of recent policy initiatives on the supported employment sector; including the DWP plans for specialist disability employment services, the LSC's strategy for disabled learners and the potential impact of individualised budgets and public service agreements.
 Over the two days, delegates will hear from key speakers, including Stephen Timms MP, Minister for Employment and Welfare Reform, and participate in a range of workshops to better prepare for the forthcoming changes. The venue is particularly apt since Northumbria University's Centre for Public Policy has been so involved in evaluating aspects of current specialist provision, and the innovative development of a system to monitor 'distance travelled'. The conference will showcase the findings of this important research. In addition, a full programme of workshops and an exhibition area will inform and involve delegates in discussing best practice within supported employment.
 On behalf of Newcastle City Council, we invite you to join us in the North East. Newcastle has a justly deserved reputation as a premier destination with a vibrant nightlife and a warm and friendly welcome. Capacity is limited to 300 delegates and early booking is strongly advised.
We are again able to offer exceptional value for money with the two day programme being available to members for less than £250. We have teamed up with the University and Newcastle Gateshead Convention Bureau to offer an accommodation service that includes access to high quality campus accommodation at budget rates.
Newcastle City Council have kindly arranged a civic reception and conference dinner for delegates at the Assembly Halls on the evening of 10 September. This will allow valuable networking opportunities and we would encourage delegates to attend this prestigious event which will be attended by the Lord Mayor and senior figures from the City Council.
The conference will feature an exhibition area and we encourage members, and others, to contact us about exhibiting.
These pages will offer a range of information regarding the conference and will be regularly updated as the conference programme is confirmed. We expect the programme to be finalised in July and we're finalising an extensive range of workshops.
Specific queries can be directed to our Secretariat.
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