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The Women & Girls’ Online Safety Conference 2026, organised by The Open University’s Centre for Protecting Women Online, is an important academic and professional gathering focused on addressing the growing challenges of online safety. The conference provides a dedicated platform for researchers, educators, policymakers, technology professionals, and community leaders to exchange knowledge and develop practical solutions for creating safer digital environments. As digital platforms continue to influence communication, education, employment, and social interaction, online safety has become a critical global concern. Women and girls often experience unique challenges in digital spaces, including online harassment, privacy risks, cyber abuse, misinformation, and technology-enabled violence. This conference aims to encourage collaboration between different sectors to better understand these issues and develop effective responses. A Platform for Digital Safety Research The conference highlights the importance of research-driven approaches to online protection. Academic researchers and technology specialists will share findings that examine digital risks, user behaviour, online communities, and emerging cybersecurity challenges. Through presentations, discussions, and knowledge-sharing sessions, participants will explore how research can support stronger digital safety policies and improve the design of online platforms. The event encourages interdisciplinary collaboration by connecting experts from fields including cybersecurity, social sciences, education, law, technology, and public policy. Addressing Online Risks Facing Women and Girls One of the central themes of the conference is understanding the different forms of online harm experienced by women and girls. These challenges include cyberbullying, online harassment, image-based abuse, identity threats, and privacy violations. The conference provides opportunities to discuss prevention methods, support systems, and policy frameworks designed to reduce digital risks. Participants will examine how organisations can work together to create online spaces where individuals can participate safely and confidently. Exploring Cybersecurity and Responsible Technology Technology plays an essential role in improving online safety. The conference will explore how cybersecurity solutions, artificial intelligence, digital literacy programmes, and responsible technology development can contribute to safer online experiences. Experts will discuss the importance of building digital platforms that consider safety, privacy, and inclusivity from the beginning. Responsible innovation can help ensure that technology benefits users while reducing potential risks. Collaboration Between Academia, Industry and Policy Makers The event brings together professionals from different sectors to encourage meaningful collaboration. Universities contribute research and analysis, technology companies provide practical insights, and policymakers develop frameworks that support safer digital environments. By connecting these groups, the conference creates opportunities for sharing knowledge and developing strategies that can have real-world impact. Collaborative approaches are essential because online safety challenges are complex and require solutions from multiple perspectives. Networking Opportunities for Professionals The Women & Girls’ Online Safety Conference 2026 offers valuable networking opportunities for attendees. Participants can connect with researchers, cybersecurity experts, educators, government representatives, and organisations working in digital safety. Networking sessions allow attendees to exchange ideas, establish professional relationships, and explore potential collaborations. These connections can support future research projects, policy initiatives, and community programmes focused on improving online safety. Importance for Education and Digital Awareness Education plays a significant role in creating safer online communities. The conference explores how digital literacy and awareness programmes can help individuals recognise online risks and make informed decisions. Educational institutions have an important responsibility in preparing students to navigate digital environments safely. Discussions during the event will highlight approaches for integrating online safety education into learning environments. Supporting Future Digital Policies Effective online safety requires strong policies supported by evidence-based research. The conference provides a space for discussing current regulations, future policy directions, and strategies for protecting vulnerable online users. Policymakers and researchers can use insights from the event to develop stronger approaches that balance innovation, accessibility, privacy, and safety. Why Attend the Women & Girls’ Online Safety Conference 2026? Attending this conference provides professionals and researchers with an opportunity to stay informed about the latest developments in online safety. Participants can gain insights from experts, discover new research, and contribute to discussions shaping the future of digital protection. The event is especially valuable for anyone involved in cybersecurity, education, technology development, social research, public policy, or community support. It offers a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities associated with creating safer online spaces. Final Thoughts The Women & Girls’ Online Safety Conference 2026 represents an important opportunity to bring together diverse perspectives on digital protection and cybersecurity. Hosted by The Open University, the conference demonstrates the importance of research, collaboration, and innovation in addressing online safety challenges. By encouraging dialogue between academics, industry professionals, policymakers, and advocates, the event aims to support practical solutions that improve digital experiences for women and girls. It provides a valuable environment for learning, networking, and developing strategies for a safer digital future.

Mainspring Ltd is proud to present the Light Rail & Urban Transit Innovation Forum, hosted in Peterborough, UK. As cities expand and seek sustainable mobility solutions to reduce congestion and carbon emissions, light rail and urban transit networks are taking center stage in regional infrastructure planning. This flagship two-day conference brings together industry executives, public transport authorities, urban planners, and technical innovators to explore the future of eco-friendly mass transit. Attendees will gather to examine real-world case studies, gain insights into current passenger rail trends, and foster high-impact commercial partnerships that drive the growth of modern light rail networks across the United Kingdom and beyond. Advancing Infrastructure and Rolling Stock Technology The core technical sessions of the forum delve deep into modern engineering breakthroughs transforming light and urban rail systems. Leading experts will showcase innovations in track construction, energy-efficient electrification, battery-powered streetcars, and modern signal automation. Technical presentations will evaluate the entire lifecycle of transit assets—from initial design and capital expenditure management to long-term predictive maintenance using IoT sensors and AI diagnostics. Delegates will discover practical approaches to upgrading existing city tramways while integrating modern rolling stock, ensuring systems remain resilient, cost-effective, and passenger-friendly over decades of continuous operation. Pioneering Very Light Rail and Sustainable Mobility A dedicated focus segment will examine the rise of Very Light Rail (VLR) and lightweight transport alternatives. Designed to lower capital costs and shorten construction timelines compared to traditional rail projects, VLR presents a transformative opportunity for mid-sized cities seeking high-capacity public transport. Industry leaders will detail how lightweight composite materials, off-wire energy storage, and modular track layouts enable rapid deployment with minimal urban disruption. Delegates will participate in collaborative debates analyzing economic viability, land-use planning, and how localized green transit networks directly contribute to net-zero carbon goals for regional councils. Facilitating Strategic B2B Industry Connections Connecting key market players lies at the heart of Mainspring's mission. This conference offers dedicated networking sessions, curated buyer-meets-supplier meetings, and informal evening receptions designed to encourage high-value dialogue. Component suppliers, software developers, and engineering consultancies will have direct access to procurement heads and operations directors managing major UK passenger rail networks. Whether you are an established leader aiming to consolidate market position or an innovator looking to enter the rail ecosystem, these structured networking opportunities provide the perfect environment to establish meaningful, long-term commercial relationships. Navigating Policy, Funding, and Future City Mobility The conference concludes with policy-driven roundtables examining government funding frameworks, public-private partnerships, and integrated urban planning. Industry leaders and government representatives will break down the strategies needed to secure capital investment, streamline regulatory approval, and seamlessly integrate light rail networks with bus rapid transit, cycling paths, and micro-mobility options. By bridging the gap between high-level policy and field execution, the Light Rail & Urban Transit Innovation Forum equips delegates with actionable strategies to deliver efficient, inclusive, and future-proof public transportation systems.

Transitioning from a student to a practitioner requires more than just academic knowledge; it requires a suite of "next-gen" professional skills. This workshop, organized by the Association of Law Teachers, focuses on the practicalities of teaching soft skills, professional ethics, and entrepreneurial mindsets within the modern law degree. As the legal market becomes more competitive, law schools must adapt by integrating experiential learning that mirrors the realities of 21st-century practice. This event provides a platform for "pracademics"—those who bridge the professional and academic divide—to share innovative assessment methods that test competence rather than just memory. Throughout the day, we will host "Sprints" where participants can design new modules focused on emotional intelligence, negotiation, and client management. A significant portion of the workshop is dedicated to "The Great Law Teachers Project," an initiative exploring what constitutes excellence in the contemporary law classroom. We will analyze how to use feedback effectively and how to build a curriculum that promotes resilience and adaptability. This is a hands-on event designed for those who want to leave with actionable ideas to improve their students' employability and professional readiness.

In a world increasingly characterized by volatility and social upheaval, the responsibility of the law teacher extends far beyond the delivery of black-letter law. This one-day conference, hosted by the Association of Law Teachers, invites participants to explore the intersection of legal education and social justice. We will examine how curricula can be "decolonized" and redesigned to promote equity, sustainability, and the rule of law. The event focuses on the teacher's role in fostering "socially engaged graduates" who are equipped to tackle global challenges such as climate change, human rights abuses, and systemic inequality. The conference will feature a series of "World Café" style workshops where educators can share their experiences in embedding clinical legal education and pro bono initiatives into the student journey. By focusing on "human-centered legal education," we move the needle toward a more empathetic and reflective mode of learning. We will also host a debate on the impact of global politics on domestic legal teaching, asking how we can protect academic freedom while advocating for vulnerable communities. This is an essential gathering for anyone committed to the idea that the law school should be a laboratory for social change and a sanctuary for justice-oriented scholarship.

As the landscape of higher education undergoes a seismic shift driven by digital transformation, the Association of Law Teachers (ALT) presents a comprehensive seminar focused on the integration of emergent technologies within the legal curriculum. This event serves as a critical junction for educators who are navigating the complexities of "digital lawyering" and the ethical implications of algorithmic reasoning in the classroom. The sessions will move beyond the theoretical, offering practical frameworks for embedding artificial intelligence literacy and automated legal tools into core modules. Attendees will engage in deep-dive discussions regarding the "pedagogy of the future," examining how simulations and AI-driven feedback loops can enhance student engagement and prepare graduates for a tech-mediated legal profession. The seminar also addresses the human element of technology. As we automate more administrative and research tasks, the role of the law teacher evolves into that of a mentor and ethical guide. We will explore the "pracademia" model—bridging the gap between academic theory and the practical technological skills required by modern law firms. This includes a dedicated session on safeguarding the rule of law in an era of deepfakes and automated misinformation. By participating, you will join a vibrant community of scholars dedicated to ensuring that legal education remains robust, relevant, and resilient in the face of rapid technological change.

The Local Authority Digital Waste Expo is a specialized exhibition focusing on the "Hardware and Software" of modern recycling. As Nottingham continues its journey toward becoming a "Smart City," the waste management sector is leading the charge with IoT-enabled bins, GPS-tracked collection vehicles, and automated reporting systems. This expo brings together the most innovative technology providers in the UK to demonstrate how digital tools can drastically reduce the carbon footprint and operational costs of municipal waste services. Exhibitors will showcase the latest in sensor technology that alerts councils when bins are full, preventing unnecessary vehicle movements and overflowing litter. In the seminar theatre, local authority IT leads will discuss the challenges of "Legacy System Integration"—moving away from paper-based tracking to real-time, cloud-based dashboards. This event provides a hands-on experience, allowing attendees to test new software interfaces designed for both back-end management and citizen-facing apps. The expo also features a dedicated "Future Fleet" zone, showcasing electric and hydrogen-powered refuse collection vehicles (RCVs). With many UK cities implementing Clean Air Zones, the transition to a zero-emission fleet is a priority for every local authority advisor. Attendees can engage with manufacturers to discuss charging infrastructure, battery life, and the total cost of ownership compared to traditional diesel models. This is where the future of Nottingham's environmental services is built.

As we reach the midpoint of 2026, the Mid-Year Waste & Resource Advisory Forum provides a vital opportunity for local authority stakeholders to assess the progress of annual environmental targets. Held in the heart of Nottingham, this forum acts as a peer-review hub where advisory members can present preliminary data from the spring collection season and adjust strategies for the upcoming winter peak. This event is characterized by its interactive nature, moving away from standard lectures toward high-impact "knowledge-sharing circles." A primary focus of this mid-year update is the performance of new material recovery facilities (MRFs) across the East Midlands. We will review technological benchmarks for sorting efficiency and discuss the shifting commodity prices for recycled paper, plastic, and glass. With the 2027 "Zero Waste to Landfill" targets looming, this forum provides the necessary analytical deep-dive to ensure that local authorities are on track to meet their statutory obligations. The afternoon sessions will focus on "Behavioral Insights and Public Compliance." Using recent data from Nottingham-based pilot programs, we will examine which messaging strategies have most effectively reduced contamination in household recycling bins. Experts in psychology and communications will share tools for better public engagement, specifically targeting hard-to-reach demographics in high-density urban areas. This forum is an essential pit-stop for any waste professional looking to refine their operations for the latter half of the year.

The Nottinghamshire Circular Economy Symposium is a premier gathering of environmental strategists and local authority advisors dedicated to reimagining the lifecycle of resources within the county. In the wake of global supply chain shifts, the local authority's role in securing secondary material markets has never been more vital. This event bridges the gap between high-level policy and boots-on-the-ground execution, offering a comprehensive look at how Nottinghamshire can transition from a linear "take-make-dispose" model to a resilient, closed-loop system. Participants will explore case studies from leading local authorities that have successfully implemented circular procurement policies and community-led repair initiatives. The symposium will feature dedicated tracks on "Urban Mining," focusing on the recovery of precious metals from electronic waste, and "Biogenic Loops," which examines the future of food waste anaerobic digestion within the East Midlands. This is a technical, research-backed event designed for those who manage the physical and financial infrastructure of waste. Special attention will be given to the 2026/27 rollout of mandatory weekly food waste collections. We will discuss the logistical hurdles of vehicle procurement, route optimisation, and public engagement strategies. The symposium encourages a multidisciplinary approach, inviting urban planners and economic development officers to join waste professionals in discussions about how circularity can drive local job creation and carbon reduction targets. Be part of the conversation that shapes the future of Nottingham's resource management.

As the United Kingdom transitions toward a more circular economy, local authorities face unprecedented pressure to adapt to shifting legislative frameworks. The LARAC East Midlands Local Authority Briefing serves as a critical touchpoint for waste management professionals and council officers to dissect the practical implications of recent environmental mandates. This session is specifically designed to address the unique logistical and demographic challenges faced by councils within the East Midlands, providing a collaborative environment where leaders can share successes and navigate collective hurdles. The briefing will delve into the intricacies of the "Simpler Recycling" reforms, focusing on the standardisation of collection streams across residential and commercial sectors. Attendees will engage in detailed workshops concerning the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging, exploring how these new funding models will directly impact local council budgets and infrastructure investments. Expert speakers from the Local Authority Recycling Advisory Committee will provide updates on the latest Defra consultations, ensuring that every participant leaves with a clear, actionable roadmap for their respective borough or district. Beyond the regulatory updates, the event focuses heavily on digital transformation within waste services. We will explore the integration of AI-driven sorting technologies and the use of big data to track contamination rates at the kerbside. By fostering a network of regional experts, this briefing empowers local authorities to move beyond mere compliance, aiming instead for regional excellence in resource recovery. Join us in Nottingham to strengthen the East Midlands' position as a leader in sustainable local government practices.

Data is often called the new oil, but without a standard way to refine and transport it, its value is limited. The OGC Business Intelligence & Location Analytics seminar in Nottingham focuses on how enterprises can leverage open geospatial standards to drive ROI and operational efficiency. This event moves away from the purely technical and focuses on the "Business Case for Open Standards." From retail site selection to supply chain optimization, location intelligence is the secret weapon of the modern successful corporation. We will explore how the adoption of OGC standards like the Web Feature Service (The Nottingham BelfryWFS) and Web Map Service (WMS) allows businesses to integrate external geographic data into their existing CRM and ERP systems with minimal friction. This interoperability enables a holistic view of market trends, logistics bottlenecks, and customer demographics. Speakers from the finance and retail sectors will share their experiences in moving away from proprietary "walled garden" software toward open ecosystems that allow for greater flexibility and lower long-term costs. The seminar also highlights the emerging field of "Indoor Mapping" and its impact on the hospitality and real estate industries. Using OGC’s IndoorGML, businesses can create precise maps of shopping malls, airports, and office complexes, enabling better facility management and personalized customer experiences through wayfinding apps. The final segment of the day will be dedicated to a "Vendor-Neutral" showcase. Unlike many commercial trade shows, this event prioritizes the standards themselves, showing how multiple different software products can work together seamlessly when they adhere to OGC guidelines. This is a must-attend event for C-level executives, department heads, and business analysts who want to ensure their organization’s spatial data strategy is future-proof and scalable.

Security and situational awareness rely heavily on the precision and availability of spatial data. The OGC Defence and Security Spatial Data Forum, taking place in Nottingham, is a high-level briefing and networking event designed for professionals working at the intersection of national security and geospatial intelligence. This forum addresses the critical need for "Interoperability under Pressure," examining how OGC standards can be utilized in mission-critical environments where data must be shared across different jurisdictions and platforms instantly. The forum will cover the latest advancements in the OGC GeoPackage standard, which has become a cornerstone for disconnected operations in the field. Experts will discuss how to maintain data integrity when operating in low-bandwidth environments and how standardized metadata allows for rapid intelligence synthesis from multiple sources, including satellite imagery, drone feeds, and ground sensors. This is a unique opportunity to hear from defence contractors and military advisors about the real-world requirements of the modern tactical edge. In addition to hardware and software discussions, the forum will host a series of "Closed Door" style briefings on cyber-spatial security. As geospatial data becomes more central to national infrastructure, protecting these data pipelines from manipulation and spoofing is a top priority. We will explore how OGC is working with security agencies to bake-in encryption and authentication at the standards level. The afternoon will feature a "Technology Horizon" panel, looking at the role of augmented reality (AR) in field operations. By using standardized 3D data, field units can overlay critical information onto their physical surroundings with high precision. This event is essential for anyone involved in the procurement, development, or analysis of spatial data for the defence, emergency services, or private security sectors.

The OGC Smart Cities Interoperability Workshop is a hands-on, intensive event dedicated to solving the complex challenges of data silos in modern urban environments. In the heart of Nottingham, a city renowned for its commitment to sustainable transport and green energy, this workshop brings together technical experts to bridge the gap between theoretical standards and practical implementation. The core focus of this event is the application of OGC standards like CityGML and SensorThings API to create a seamless flow of information across various city departments. The workshop is structured to move quickly from high-level concepts to real-world coding and configuration. Participants will engage in "sprint-style" sessions where they attempt to integrate disparate data feeds—such as live traffic sensors, air quality monitors, and building energy usage—into a unified visualization dashboard. This collaborative environment encourages peer-to-peer learning and the sharing of "battle-tested" solutions for common interoperability hurdles. Expert mentors from the OGC community will be on hand to provide guidance on schema mapping, API security, and data harvesting techniques. One of the unique aspects of this Nottingham event is the focus on "Green Interoperability." As cities face increasing pressure to meet net-zero targets, the ability to accurately measure and report environmental metrics is vital. We will explore how OGC standards facilitate the monitoring of carbon footprints at a granular level, allowing for more effective local government interventions. The event concludes with a demonstration gallery, where workshop groups present their integrated solutions to a panel of industry veterans. This is not just a learning exercise; the prototypes developed here often serve as the foundation for future grant applications and commercial products. By participating, you become part of a global movement dedicated to making our cities more efficient, livable, and resilient through the power of open, standardized data.