Network Learning Exchange Connecting people. Sharing ideas. Strengthening the Headway network.
The Network Learning Exchange brings the Headway network together to learn, share ideas, and strengthen the support we provide. Whether you’re interested in training or joining one of our discussion groups, there’s something for everyone - and all sessions are free for staff, trustees, committee members, and volunteers across the network.
Training & workshops
Join our interactive training sessions and workshops, covering topics from digital marketing to trustee recruitment. We encourage active participation, ask questions anytime using the chat or raise-hand feature to make the most of the experience!
Discussion groups
Looking to connect with others tackling similar challenges? Our discussion groups are here to bring the Headway network together, offering a space to exchange ideas, share experiences, and explore best practices.
Information sessions
These sessions are designed to provide you with essential information about key Headway services, including topics such as financial returns and our group insurance scheme.
Available now
We have a great selection of recorded sessions and presentations ready for you to access anytime.
Some of these include:
- Carers' Rights
- Trustee Recruitment
- Staff Recruitment & Retention
- Sexual Harassment Law Training
- An Introduction to Integrated Care Systems
To hear about how access these recordings please email sam.clarke@headway.org.uk for more information.
Feedback and suggestions
We are always looking for suggestions of future topics and ideas on how we can improve the Network Learning Exchange. Feel free to leave any suggestions in the comments box.
February
Companions & Appointees Explained: Navigating DWP Guidelines in Assessments
This session will be hosted by Catherine Bissell and Jane Henderson from Capita.
12/02/2026 (11:00 - 11:30)
We’re pleased to be partnering with Capita to deliver three workshops this February, aimed at bringing clarity to the benefits assessment process. Our second session will explain DWP’s definitions and the roles of Companions and Appointees within the assessment environment. We’ll refer to the PIP Assessment Guide – the ‘rule book’ all assessment providers must follow – to give you a clear understanding of how these roles support claimants and fit into the overall process
Branch VOICE
This discussion group will be led by Marie Peacock, Head of Network.
18/02/2026 (17:30 - 18:30)
The Branch VOICE group is an open space for all Headway Branch volunteers to come together, share experiences, collaborate on ideas, and support one another. It’s designed to strengthen connections between branches, provide a platform to raise and explore key issues, and help shape the future of volunteering at Headway.
This group acts as a sounding board for new initiatives, a hub for shared learning, and a space where every Branch volunteer can have their voice heard. Whether you're looking to share best practices, raise challenges, or simply connect with others across the network—this is your space.
Meetings are held online every other month, to register your interest click 'Book now' below:
The Power of Further Evidence: How to Strengthen a Claim
This session will be hosted by Catherine Bissell and Jane Henderson from Capita.
25/02/2026 (11:00 - 12:00)
We’re pleased to be partnering with Capita to deliver three workshops this February, aimed at bringing clarity to the benefits assessment process. Our third and final session on Further Evidence will take a deeper dive into the benefits of submitting Further Evidence early in the claim journey. You’ll learn how this evidence is used to support a claim, what good-quality evidence looks like from an assessment provider’s perspective, and explore real-life examples to understand what makes evidence effective.
March
Together is Better Group
Marie Peacock, Headway of Network & Ali Bazley, Network Support Manager.
03/03/2026 (11:45 - 12:30)
This discussion group brings together local Headway charities to strengthen partnerships, share insights, and exchange experiences. It’s an opportunity to celebrate successes, address current challenges, and explore new ways to work together effectively.
If you have an item that you would like to raise for discussion, please email marie.peacock@headway.org.uk for inclusion on the agenda.
Trustee Welcome Session (England & Wales)
This session will be led by Marie Peacock, Headway of Network & Ali Bazley, Network Support Manager.
05/03/2026 (12:00 - 12:30)
Whether you’re stepping into your first trustee role or looking to refresh your knowledge, this session will give you the confidence and clarity you need to thrive. Together, we’ll explore what it truly means to be a trustee, the impact you can make, and the six essential duties defined by the Charity Commission. We’ll also look at what to expect in the boardroom, from understanding your responsibilities to contributing effectively as part of a strategic leadership team.
This is a friendly, informative session designed to empower you, answer your questions, and set you up for success in your trustee journey.
Community of Headway Trustees
This session will be hosted by a Headway UK trustee.
11/03/2026 (19:00 - 20:00)
The Community of Headway Trustees brings together trustees from Independent Headway Charities and Headway UK to connect, collaborate, and support one another. Meeting online, we share insights on governance, challenges, successes, emerging themes, and trustee development, while offering space for peer advice and resource‑sharing. Agendas are shaped by the community, and each session is chaired by a Headway UK trustee. To add a discussion item, please email marie.peacock@headway.org.uk.
Trustee Welcome Session (Scotland)
This session will be led by Marie Peacock, Headway of Network and Maria Burnett, Network Support Coordinator for Scotland.
12/03/2026 (12:00 - 12:30)
Whether you’re stepping into your first trustee role or looking to refresh your knowledge, this session will give you the confidence and clarity you need to thrive. Together, we’ll explore what it truly means to be a trustee, the impact you can make, and the six essential duties every trustee should understand, as set out by the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR). We’ll also cover what to expect in the boardroom, from understanding your responsibilities to contributing effectively as part of a strategic leadership team.
This friendly, informative session is designed to empower you, answer your questions, and set you up for success in your trustee journey.
Introducing CareCubed: The National Costing Tool
This session will be led by Nik Jones the Business Development Manager at CareCubed.
17/03/2026 (10:00 - 10:45)
Join us for an informative workshop delivered by Nik from CareCubed, the not-for-profit organisation behind a rapidly growing digital care benchmarking tool. CareCubed is currently used by over 600 local authorities, commissioners, and care providers, and has over 15 years of experience calculating the cost of care across a variety of care settings.
In this session, Nik will demonstrate the tool and show how it can benefit your service by streamlining processes, bringing transparency to costing, and supporting high-quality, sustainable care.
Aligned with Headway’s commitment to person-centred care, CareCubed is dedicated to driving positive change, ensuring services are financially viable, outcome-focused, and responsive to diverse needs.
Safeguarding for Volunteer-led Branches
This session will be hosted by Alex Power and Ffion Jones, from the Headway Safeguarding team.
24/03/2026 (18:00 - 19:30)
As part of Headway’s commitment to supporting volunteer‑led branches, at least one representative from each branch is required to attend this safeguarding session. This helps ensure every branch has the confidence and understanding needed to keep themselves and those they may come in contact with safe.
This interactive session has been designed specifically for volunteer‑led branches to strengthen their understanding of safeguarding and their role in protecting adults at risk. You will gain a clear understanding of what safeguarding is, why it matters, and your duty to act when concerns arise.
Key topics include:
- Recognising safeguarding risks and responsibilities
- Understanding that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility
- Knowing how and when to report concerns or incidents to Headway UK, with guidance on the new safeguarding policy and reporting procedures
- Exploring how safeguarding applies within a volunteer‑led branch context
By the end of this session, you will feel more confident in identifying safeguarding concerns and taking appropriate action to create a safe and supportive environment for all.
CRM Discussion Group
This session will be hosted by Andrew Taylor, Headway of Digital.
26/03/2026 (12:00 - 12:45)
Following the success of our first session, we’re pleased to continue supporting collaboration and knowledge‑sharing across Independent Headway Charities and Volunteer‑led Branches through our Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Discussion Group in the Network Learning Exchange. We’ll explore how different charities are using CRM systems, how these systems help us handle and organise our data safely and effectively, what’s working well, and what future improvements could look like.
Whether you’re deeply involved in CRM development or simply use the system day‑to‑day, your insights are invaluable. This next session is a chance to:
- Share experiences and practical tips
- Explore different CRM tools and ways of working
- Discuss challenges and opportunities
- Build a collaborative network for ongoing support and learning
Let’s come together to learn from each other and help shape how CRM systems are used across the network.
Safeguarding for Volunteer-led Branches
This session will be hosted by Alex Power and Ffion Jones, from the Headway Safeguarding team.
31/03/2026 (12:00 - 13:30)
As part of Headway’s commitment to supporting volunteer‑led branches, at least one representative from each branch is required to attend this safeguarding session. This helps ensure every branch has the confidence and understanding needed to keep themselves and those they may come in contact with safe.
This interactive session has been designed specifically for volunteer‑led branches to strengthen their understanding of safeguarding and their role in protecting adults at risk. You will gain a clear understanding of what safeguarding is, why it matters, and your duty to act when concerns arise.
Key topics include:
- Recognising safeguarding risks and responsibilities
- Understanding that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility
- Knowing how and when to report concerns or incidents to Headway UK, with guidance on the new safeguarding policy and reporting procedures
- Exploring how safeguarding applies within a volunteer‑led branch context
By the end of this session, you will feel more confident in identifying safeguarding concerns and taking appropriate action to create a safe and supportive environment for all.
April
Volunteering Discussion Group
This session will be hosted by Danielle Duggan our Network Support Co-ordinator.
22/04/2026 (11:00 - 12:00)
This discussion group brings together local Headway charities to discuss common issues relating to volunteering. Each quarter we will focus on a different topic relating to volunteering including recruitment, training, reward and recognition. It’s an opportunity to share best practice, address current challenges, and explore new ways of including volunteers in your work. If you have a topic you would like to raise for discussion, please email danielle.duggan@headway.org.uk
These discussion groups will take place on 15 July 2026.
Together is Better Group
Marie Peacock, Headway of Network & Ali Bazley, Network Support Manager.
23/04/2026 (11:45 - 12:30)
This discussion group brings together local Headway charities to strengthen partnerships, share insights, and exchange experiences. It’s an opportunity to celebrate successes, address current challenges, and explore new ways to work together effectively.
If you have an item that you would like to raise for discussion, please email marie.peacock@headway.org.uk for inclusion on the agenda.
June
Together is Better Group
Marie Peacock, Headway of Network & Ali Bazley, Network Support Manager.
02/06/2026 (11:45 - 12:30)
This discussion group brings together local Headway charities to strengthen partnerships, share insights, and exchange experiences. It’s an opportunity to celebrate successes, address current challenges, and explore new ways to work together effectively.
If you have an item that you would like to raise for discussion, please email marie.peacock@headway.org.uk for inclusion on the agenda.
Trustee Welcome Session (England & Wales)
This session will be led by Marie Peacock, Headway of Network & Ali Bazley, Network Support Manager.
04/06/2026 (12:00 - 12:30)
Whether you’re stepping into your first trustee role or looking to refresh your knowledge, this session will give you the confidence and clarity you need to thrive. Together, we’ll explore what it truly means to be a trustee, the impact you can make, and the six essential duties defined by the Charity Commission. We’ll also look at what to expect in the boardroom, from understanding your responsibilities to contributing effectively as part of a strategic leadership team.
This is a friendly, informative session designed to empower you, answer your questions, and set you up for success in your trustee journey.
Trustee Welcome Session (Scotland)
This session will be led by Marie Peacock, Headway of Network and Maria Burnett, Network Support Coordinator for Scotland.
11/06/2026 (12:00 - 12:30)
Whether you’re stepping into your first trustee role or looking to refresh your knowledge, this session will give you the confidence and clarity you need to thrive. Together, we’ll explore what it truly means to be a trustee, the impact you can make, and the six essential duties every trustee should understand, as set out by the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR). We’ll also cover what to expect in the boardroom, from understanding your responsibilities to contributing effectively as part of a strategic leadership team.
This friendly, informative session is designed to empower you, answer your questions, and set you up for success in your trustee journey.
Community of Headway Trustees
This session will be hosted by a Headway UK trustee.
16/06/2026 (15:30 - 16:30)
The Community of Headway Trustees brings together trustees from Independent Headway Charities and Headway UK to connect, collaborate, and support one another. Meeting online, we share insights on governance, challenges, successes, emerging themes, and trustee development, while offering space for peer advice and resource‑sharing. Agendas are shaped by the community, and each session is chaired by a Headway UK trustee. To add a discussion item, please email marie.peacock@headway.org.uk.
July
Volunteering Discussion Group
This session will be hosted by Danielle Duggan our Network Support Co-ordinator.
15/07/2026 (11:00 - 12:00)
This discussion group brings together local Headway charities to discuss common issues relating to volunteering. Each quarter we will focus on a different topic relating to volunteering including recruitment, training, reward and recognition. It’s an opportunity to share best practice, address current challenges, and explore new ways of including volunteers in your work. If you have a topic you would like to raise for discussion, please email danielle.duggan@headway.org.uk
Meetings are held online every three months, to register your interest click 'Book now' below:
Together is Better Group
Marie Peacock, Headway of Network & Ali Bazley, Network Support Manager.
16/07/2026 (11:45 - 12:30)
This discussion group brings together local Headway charities to strengthen partnerships, share insights, and exchange experiences. It’s an opportunity to celebrate successes, address current challenges, and explore new ways to work together effectively.
If you have an item that you would like to raise for discussion, please email marie.peacock@headway.org.uk for inclusion on the agenda.
September
Together is Better Group
Marie Peacock, Headway of Network & Ali Bazley, Network Support Manager.
03/09/2026 (11:45 - 12:30)
This discussion group brings together local Headway charities to strengthen partnerships, share insights, and exchange experiences. It’s an opportunity to celebrate successes, address current challenges, and explore new ways to work together effectively.
If you have an item that you would like to raise for discussion, please email marie.peacock@headway.org.uk for inclusion on the agenda.
Community of Headway Trustees
This session will be hosted by a Headway UK trustee.
16/09/2026 (15:30 - 16:30)
The Community of Headway Trustees brings together trustees from Independent Headway Charities and Headway UK to connect, collaborate, and support one another. Meeting online, we share insights on governance, challenges, successes, emerging themes, and trustee development, while offering space for peer advice and resource‑sharing. Agendas are shaped by the community, and each session is chaired by a Headway UK trustee. To add a discussion item, please email marie.peacock@headway.org.uk.
Trustee Welcome Session (England & Wales)
This session will be led by Marie Peacock, Headway of Network & Ali Bazley, Network Support Manager.
22/09/2026 (18:30 - 19:00)
Whether you’re stepping into your first trustee role or looking to refresh your knowledge, this session will give you the confidence and clarity you need to thrive. Together, we’ll explore what it truly means to be a trustee, the impact you can make, and the six essential duties defined by the Charity Commission. We’ll also look at what to expect in the boardroom, from understanding your responsibilities to contributing effectively as part of a strategic leadership team.
This is a friendly, informative session designed to empower you, answer your questions, and set you up for success in your trustee journey.
Trustee Welcome Session (Scotland)
This session will be led by Marie Peacock, Headway of Network and Maria Burnett, Network Support Coordinator for Scotland.
29/09/2026 (18:30 - 19:00)
Whether you’re stepping into your first trustee role or looking to refresh your knowledge, this session will give you the confidence and clarity you need to thrive. Together, we’ll explore what it truly means to be a trustee, the impact you can make, and the six essential duties every trustee should understand, as set out by the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR). We’ll also cover what to expect in the boardroom, from understanding your responsibilities to contributing effectively as part of a strategic leadership team.
This friendly, informative session is designed to empower you, answer your questions, and set you up for success in your trustee journey.
October
Together is Better Group
Marie Peacock, Headway of Network & Ali Bazley, Network Support Manager.
13/10/2026 (11:45 - 12:30)
This discussion group brings together local Headway charities to strengthen partnerships, share insights, and exchange experiences. It’s an opportunity to celebrate successes, address current challenges, and explore new ways to work together effectively.
If you have an item that you would like to raise for discussion, please email marie.peacock@headway.org.uk for inclusion on the agenda.
November
Community of Headway Trustees
This session will be hosted by a Headway UK trustee.
24/11/2026 (19:00 - 20:00)
The Community of Headway Trustees brings together trustees from Independent Headway Charities and Headway UK to connect, collaborate, and support one another. Meeting online, we share insights on governance, challenges, successes, emerging themes, and trustee development, while offering space for peer advice and resource‑sharing. Agendas are shaped by the community, and each session is chaired by a Headway UK trustee. To add a discussion item, please email marie.peacock@headway.org.uk.
Trustee Welcome Session (England & Wales)
This session will be led by Marie Peacock, Headway of Network & Ali Bazley, Network Support Manager.
25/11/2026 (12:00 - 12:30)
Whether you’re stepping into your first trustee role or looking to refresh your knowledge, this session will give you the confidence and clarity you need to thrive. Together, we’ll explore what it truly means to be a trustee, the impact you can make, and the six essential duties defined by the Charity Commission. We’ll also look at what to expect in the boardroom, from understanding your responsibilities to contributing effectively as part of a strategic leadership team.
This is a friendly, informative session designed to empower you, answer your questions, and set you up for success in your trustee journey.
Together is Better Group
Marie Peacock, Headway of Network & Ali Bazley, Network Support Manager.
26/11/2026 (11:45 - 12:30)
This discussion group brings together local Headway charities to strengthen partnerships, share insights, and exchange experiences. It’s an opportunity to celebrate successes, address current challenges, and explore new ways to work together effectively.
If you have an item that you would like to raise for discussion, please email marie.peacock@headway.org.uk for inclusion on the agenda.
December
Trustee Welcome Session (Scotland)
This session will be led by Marie Peacock, Headway of Network and Maria Burnett, Network Support Coordinator for Scotland.
02/12/2026 (12:00 - 12:30)
Whether you’re stepping into your first trustee role or looking to refresh your knowledge, this session will give you the confidence and clarity you need to thrive. Together, we’ll explore what it truly means to be a trustee, the impact you can make, and the six essential duties every trustee should understand, as set out by the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR). We’ll also cover what to expect in the boardroom, from understanding your responsibilities to contributing effectively as part of a strategic leadership team.
This friendly, informative session is designed to empower you, answer your questions, and set you up for success in your trustee journey.
January 2027
Together is Better Group
Marie Peacock, Headway of Network & Ali Bazley, Network Support Manager.
12/01/2027 (11:45 - 12:30)
This discussion group brings together local Headway charities to strengthen partnerships, share insights, and exchange experiences. It’s an opportunity to celebrate successes, address current challenges, and explore new ways to work together effectively.
If you have an item that you would like to raise for discussion, please email marie.peacock@headway.org.uk for inclusion on the agenda.
February 2027
Together is Better Group
Marie Peacock, Headway of Network & Ali Bazley, Network Support Manager.
25/02/2027 (11:45 - 12:30)
This discussion group brings together local Headway charities to strengthen partnerships, share insights, and exchange experiences. It’s an opportunity to celebrate successes, address current challenges, and explore new ways to work together effectively.
If you have an item that you would like to raise for discussion, please email marie.peacock@headway.org.uk for inclusion on the agenda.
April 2027
Together is Better Group
Marie Peacock, Headway of Network & Ali Bazley, Network Support Manager.
13/04/2027 (11:45 - 12:30)
This discussion group brings together local Headway charities to strengthen partnerships, share insights, and exchange experiences. It’s an opportunity to celebrate successes, address current challenges, and explore new ways to work together effectively.
If you have an item that you would like to raise for discussion, please email marie.peacock@headway.org.uk for inclusion on the agenda.
