Events by Infection Prevention Society

Creative and Participatory Inquiry in Practice 2026 is an international research conference hosted by De Montfort University in Leicester, United Kingdom. Taking place on 19–20 November 2026, the event brings together academics, practitioners, artists, community organisations and policymakers to explore innovative and collaborative research approaches that create meaningful social impact. The conference focuses on creative inquiry methods, participatory research practices and interdisciplinary collaboration across education, health, arts, social sciences and community development. Conference Overview Research is increasingly moving beyond traditional academic boundaries. This conference demonstrates how collaborative approaches involving researchers and communities can generate practical solutions for real-world challenges. Participants will learn how creative methodologies such as visual arts, storytelling, digital media, performance and participatory action research can improve research outcomes while engaging diverse audiences. Across two days, delegates will experience keynote presentations from internationally recognised scholars, panel discussions, practical workshops and interactive sessions designed to encourage knowledge sharing and partnership development. Why Attend? The conference provides opportunities to: Discover innovative research methodologies. Learn from internationally recognised experts. Share successful case studies. Explore interdisciplinary collaboration. Build partnerships with universities and organisations. Develop practical research skills. Exchange ideas with international delegates. Understand community-engaged research. Gain professional development opportunities. Expand academic and professional networks. Key Themes Topics covered throughout the conference include: Participatory Action Research Creative Research Methods Community Engagement Digital Innovation in Research Arts-Based Methodologies Social Justice Research Inclusive Research Design Public Engagement Knowledge Exchange Policy Impact Each session demonstrates how collaborative research contributes to sustainable social and economic development. Conference Programme The programme features a combination of academic excellence and practical learning, including: Opening keynote address Expert panel discussions Research paper presentations Interactive workshops Poster exhibitions Networking lunches Community partnership sessions Collaborative research showcases Closing reflections and future directions These sessions encourage delegates to exchange ideas while developing new partnerships for future research projects. Featured Speakers Leading researchers and practitioners from UK and international universities will discuss emerging trends in participatory inquiry. Topics include community-led innovation, digital storytelling, inclusive education, environmental research, public health engagement and interdisciplinary collaboration. Delegates will gain practical insights that can be applied across higher education, government, healthcare, charities and private industry. Professional Development Participants can strengthen their expertise through practical workshops that demonstrate how to: Design participatory research projects. Engage stakeholders effectively. Collect qualitative data creatively. Improve research impact. Communicate findings to wider audiences. Build long-term research collaborations. These sessions are valuable for both experienced researchers and those beginning their academic careers. Networking Opportunities Dedicated networking sessions provide opportunities to meet: International academics Research funders Community organisations Industry representatives Government agencies Doctoral researchers Policy professionals These interactions often lead to collaborative publications, funded research projects and long-term professional partnerships. Venue The Georgian Rooms at De Montfort University provide an excellent setting for academic conferences. Located on the university's Leicester campus, the venue offers modern conference facilities, comfortable meeting spaces and easy access to city-centre transport links. Delegates can also explore Leicester's cultural attractions, museums, restaurants and historic landmarks during their visit. Benefits for Delegates Attendees will leave with: New research knowledge Practical methodologies International contacts Collaboration opportunities Greater research impact Professional inspiration Access to emerging research trends Enhanced career development The conference aims to encourage innovative thinking while promoting collaboration across disciplines and sectors. Creative and Participatory Inquiry in Practice 2026 offers an outstanding opportunity for researchers and professionals interested in collaborative and socially engaged research. Through keynote presentations, interactive workshops and valuable networking opportunities, delegates will gain practical knowledge that supports impactful research and innovation. Hosted by De Montfort University, this event continues the university's commitment to advancing interdisciplinary research and strengthening partnerships that address global challenges.

The Catering Innovation Show 2026 is an upcoming UK industry event designed to bring together professionals, equipment manufacturers, technology providers and decision-makers from the commercial catering and foodservice sector. Scheduled for 5 October 2026 at the Business Design Centre in London, the event offers an important platform for businesses seeking to understand the latest developments shaping professional kitchens, hospitality operations and foodservice environments. For a company such as Porkka, whose product portfolio includes professional refrigeration equipment, cold rooms and solutions for sectors including hotels, restaurants, healthcare, laboratories and food-related institutions, an event focused on catering innovation is highly relevant from an industry perspective. Porkka’s official company information highlights its expertise in professional refrigeration and cold equipment for multiple commercial and institutional applications. The company has also strengthened its UK market presence through an authorised distribution partnership with Catercall. The Catering Innovation Show is positioned around the changing needs of commercial foodservice. Restaurants, hotels, contract caterers, healthcare providers and public-sector organisations increasingly require equipment that can support operational efficiency, food safety, energy performance and long-term reliability. These requirements have made professional refrigeration a central part of modern catering infrastructure. A focused meeting point for the professional foodservice industry One of the key strengths of the Catering Innovation Show is its focused approach to the professional foodservice market. Rather than being a general consumer exhibition, the event is designed for professionals who influence purchasing, operational planning and technology adoption within commercial catering environments. The official event description identifies a broad audience that includes restaurants, hotels, contract catering organisations, healthcare catering teams, public-sector catering professionals, stadia and leisure operators. This creates a relevant environment for companies operating in commercial refrigeration and foodservice equipment. For visitors, the event can provide an opportunity to compare different solutions and understand how equipment can be integrated into demanding professional environments. For suppliers and manufacturers, it offers a way to connect directly with people who are actively involved in purchasing, facility management, kitchen design and operational development. Why commercial refrigeration remains important to catering businesses Refrigeration is one of the most important technical systems in a commercial kitchen. It supports food preservation, temperature control, storage capacity and operational continuity. In restaurants, hotels and institutional kitchens, refrigeration equipment must often operate continuously under demanding conditions. A modern professional refrigeration solution needs to meet several requirements at the same time. It must provide reliable temperature control, support efficient workflows, offer appropriate storage capacity and help businesses maintain food safety standards. In addition, energy consumption and sustainability are increasingly important considerations for foodservice operators. This is why events focused on catering innovation can be valuable to refrigeration manufacturers and distributors. They create an opportunity to understand what customers are looking for and how operational requirements are changing across different foodservice environments. A valuable event for hotels, restaurants and hospitality operators The hospitality industry has diverse refrigeration needs. A small restaurant may require compact under-counter refrigeration and preparation equipment, while a large hotel may need extensive cold storage, professional kitchen refrigeration and specialised systems for high-volume food production. Hotels also manage multiple foodservice environments, including restaurants, banquet kitchens, breakfast areas, bars and room-service operations. Each area may have different storage and temperature-control requirements. The Catering Innovation Show can therefore appeal to hospitality professionals who are seeking ways to improve efficiency across their food and beverage operations. The event can help visitors explore equipment developments, compare solutions and identify technologies that may support future investment plans. Supporting innovation in foodservice operations Innovation in commercial catering is no longer limited to cooking equipment. Modern foodservice businesses are increasingly interested in complete operational systems that can improve efficiency from storage through preparation and service. This includes improved refrigeration, smarter kitchen equipment, more sustainable systems and technologies that can help operators manage resources more effectively. The Catering Innovation Show is intended to showcase developments across this broader ecosystem. For professional equipment companies, exhibitions such as this can be particularly useful because they allow technical products to be presented in the context of real-world business challenges. A refrigeration system is not simply a standalone product; it is part of a larger kitchen, catering or foodservice operation. Sustainability and efficiency are becoming central priorities Commercial kitchens can consume significant amounts of energy because refrigeration and other equipment may operate for long periods every day. As energy costs and environmental concerns remain important business issues, operators are increasingly interested in equipment that can help improve efficiency. Sustainable foodservice technology may involve more efficient refrigeration systems, improved temperature management, longer equipment lifecycles and responsible design approaches. The industry is also increasingly focused on reducing food waste and improving operational planning. For refrigeration manufacturers, this creates an opportunity to communicate the long-term value of well-designed equipment. A system that maintains stable temperatures, supports food preservation and operates efficiently can contribute to broader business objectives. Networking opportunities for manufacturers and buyers One of the most valuable aspects of a specialist exhibition is the opportunity to meet face-to-face. Digital communication is important, but many commercial equipment purchases require detailed discussions about technical requirements, installation, capacity and long-term service. Industry exhibitions allow buyers to speak directly with suppliers and ask practical questions. They also provide manufacturers with an opportunity to understand the specific challenges faced by operators. For a business operating in the UK commercial refrigeration market, networking with catering equipment professionals, kitchen designers, hospitality operators and distributors can help create new commercial relationships. The UK foodservice sector includes a wide range of businesses, from independent restaurants to major hospitality groups and institutional catering providers. A relevant opportunity for the UK refrigeration sector The event is especially relevant in the context of Porkka's expanding UK market activity. In 2026, Porkka appointed Catercall as its authorised distributor for the United Kingdom and Ireland. The partnership covers sales, installations, after-sales services, warranty support and spare parts supply, strengthening the company's local market structure. This means that UK foodservice events can offer valuable opportunities for market awareness and relationship-building around professional refrigeration solutions. However, it is important to distinguish between industry relevance and confirmed company participation. At the time of research, I found no official announcement confirming that Porkka UK Ltd. will exhibit or attend the Catering Innovation Show 2026. Who should attend the event? The event is expected to be particularly relevant to professionals involved in commercial foodservice decision-making. Restaurant operators can explore new equipment and operational technologies. Hotel groups can investigate solutions for high-volume kitchens and hospitality environments. Contract caterers can examine technologies that support large-scale food production. Healthcare and public-sector catering professionals may also benefit from learning about equipment designed for demanding institutional environments. Kitchen designers, consultants and equipment procurement professionals can use the event to understand current market developments. The event may also be valuable for distributors and suppliers seeking to identify new partnerships and understand emerging customer needs. Building stronger connections across the foodservice supply chain Trade exhibitions are important because they connect different parts of the supply chain in one location. Manufacturers can meet distributors, distributors can connect with buyers and operators can speak directly with technical experts. This type of interaction can help the market move forward. Feedback from operators can influence future product development, while new technology can help businesses improve their efficiency and service capabilities. For a refrigeration brand, being connected to the wider catering equipment ecosystem is particularly important. Commercial refrigeration frequently forms part of a wider kitchen design or refurbishment project. Collaboration between manufacturers, distributors, consultants and installers can help ensure that solutions are selected and implemented appropriately. The importance of reliable equipment in modern kitchens Foodservice businesses depend on reliable equipment. Refrigeration failure can create operational disruption, product loss and significant business challenges. For this reason, reliability, service support and maintenance are major considerations when businesses purchase professional equipment. Industry events provide an opportunity for visitors to discuss not only product specifications but also service, installation and long-term support. This broader conversation is increasingly important as commercial operators seek equipment that can deliver value throughout its working life. Porkka's UK distribution partnership with Catercall is relevant in this context because the partnership includes local sales, installation and after-sales support for Porkka products. The Catering Innovation Show 2026 is a verified upcoming UK event taking place on 5 October 2026 at the Business Design Centre in London. It is focused on commercial catering equipment, foodservice innovation and hospitality technology, making it highly relevant to the sectors served by professional refrigeration manufacturers. For restaurant groups, hotels, contract caterers, healthcare organisations, public-sector foodservice teams and equipment professionals, the event provides a platform to explore new technologies, meet suppliers and understand the future direction of commercial catering. Although Porkka UK Ltd.'s attendance has not been publicly confirmed, the event is strategically relevant to the company's UK market sector, particularly following Porkka's 2026 appointment of Catercall as its authorised UK and Ireland distributor. Any listing that states Porkka is an exhibitor should therefore be independently confirmed through an official company or event announcement before publication.

While much of the focus on infection prevention is within acute hospital settings, the Community and Primary Care IPC Training Day addresses the unique challenges faced in GP surgeries, care homes, and domiciliary care. This event in Liverpool, held at the Aintree Racecourse Centre, provides practical, hands-on training for staff who operate outside the traditional hospital environment. The training day covers essential IPC fundamentals but tailors them to the community setting where resources and equipment may differ. Key topics include the management of outbreaks in communal living areas, safe waste disposal in domestic settings, and the implementation of aseptic techniques during home visits. A significant portion of the afternoon is dedicated to "Behavior Change." Experts will share psychological strategies to improve compliance among staff and patients, focusing on how to communicate the importance of infection control effectively. The event is designed to be highly interactive, featuring "skill stations" where participants can practice everything from donning and doffing PPE to the latest wound care decontamination methods. This event is particularly valuable for those looking to update their clinical competencies and ensure their practice aligns with the most recent national guidelines. It offers a supportive environment for networking with other community practitioners across the Liverpool region.

The Sustainable Estates and IPC Infrastructure Forum is a unique event that targets the physical environment of healthcare. Recognizing that the design of a building is the first line of defense against infection, this forum brings together architects, estate managers, and IPC professionals in Liverpool at the Royal Liver Building to discuss the future of hospital construction. The agenda focuses on "Infection-Resilient Spaces." Experts will discuss the selection of antimicrobial surfaces, the engineering of high-efficiency ventilation systems, and the management of water safety within complex plumbing networks. With the UK's commitment to a "Net Zero" NHS, a significant portion of the day will be dedicated to sustainable decontamination practices that reduce water and chemical usage. Participants will explore the challenges of retrofitting older hospital buildings to meet modern IPC standards, a particularly relevant topic for the historic healthcare estates in the North West. Networking sessions are designed to foster partnerships between those who design buildings and those who operate within them, ensuring that clinical needs are prioritized during the planning phases of new developments.

As healthcare becomes increasingly digitized, the Liverpool Healthcare IT & Infection Surveillance seminar focuses on the critical role of data in preventing infections. This one-day intensive event at the Liverpool Science Park brings together IT specialists and clinical staff to bridge the gap between technical data collection and bedside application. The core of the seminar revolves around the "Big Data" revolution in IPC. Attendees will explore how Electronic Health Records (EHR) can be leveraged to create real-time dashboards for infection monitoring. Specialized sessions will cover the development of predictive algorithms that identify patients at high risk of sepsis or C. diff based on laboratory trends and clinical observations. In addition to data analytics, the event addresses the security and ethical considerations of sharing patient data across networks. As hospitals move toward "Smart Buildings," the seminar will also touch upon how Internet of Things (IoT) sensors can monitor hand hygiene compliance and environmental cleaning effectiveness without manual auditing. The day concludes with a collaborative workshop where clinicians and developers work together to design a mock-up of a user-friendly IPC reporting tool. This hands-on approach ensures that the technology discussed is not only powerful but also practical for busy healthcare environments.

The Advanced IPC Strategies in Modern Healthcare conference is a premier gathering designed for professionals dedicated to reducing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) through innovative technological and behavioral interventions. Taking place in the heart of Liverpool, this event addresses the pressing need for integrated infection control measures in an era of increasing antimicrobial resistance and complex patient care pathways. The program is meticulously curated to provide attendees with a deep dive into the latest evidence-based practices. Keynote sessions will explore the "Anatomy of Failure" in current protocols, examining how biofilms and microbial adaptation bypass standard cleaning routines. Participants will engage in high-level discussions regarding the implementation of nasal photodisinfection and other pre-surgical interventions that have shown significant promise in reducing surgical site infections (SSIs). A major focus of this event is the intersection of sustainability and patient safety. Experts will present case studies on how reducing infection rates directly correlates with a lower carbon footprint for hospitals by minimizing resource waste and shortening hospital stays. The exhibition hall will feature cutting-edge decontamination technologies and smart surveillance software that utilizes AI to predict potential outbreak clusters before they occur. Beyond the technical sessions, the conference emphasizes the importance of leadership and culture. Workshops are scheduled to help IPC leads navigate the complexities of organizational change, ensuring that infection prevention becomes a shared responsibility across all departments—from the executive board to frontline nursing staff and estate management. This is an essential event for anyone looking to stay at the forefront of clinical safety and healthcare innovation.

The IPS North West Regional Conference is a premier gathering designed for healthcare professionals dedicated to the study and practice of infection prevention and control (IPC). Set against the backdrop of Liverpool’s rich cultural heritage, this one-day intensive conference focuses on the theme of "Translating Evidence into Sustainable Practice." As healthcare environments face increasing pressure from antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and emerging infectious threats, this event provides a vital platform for local practitioners to align their strategies with the latest national guidelines. The program features a robust lineup of keynote speakers, including lead microbiologists and senior IPC nurse consultants, who will delve into the complexities of clinical decontamination, water safety management, and the implementation of the National Standards of Healthcare Cleanliness. Participants will engage in interactive workshops that address real-world challenges, such as managing outbreaks in high-occupancy settings and the psychological barriers to hand hygiene compliance. Beyond the scientific sessions, the conference hosts a dedicated exhibition hall where industry partners showcase the latest innovations in personal protective equipment (PPE), automated disinfection systems, and digital surveillance tools. This event is not merely an educational seminar but a collaborative forum intended to foster networking among regional peers. By attending, delegates will gain 7.5 CPD points and return to their organizations with actionable insights to improve patient outcomes and staff safety. The day concludes with a panel discussion focusing on the future of IPC in community and social care settings, ensuring a holistic approach to regional public health.