Public Engagement
From local events to global projects, engaging with communities is a core part of our work. We're committed to being an open and accessible university with a civic purpose.
Public Engagement enables us to empower communities for positive social change. We're committed to improving the wellbeing of the communities we work with and the cultural and economic growth of our region. All our engagement activities reflect our values of inclusivity, respect, and collaboration for mutual benefit. We hold a Silver Watermark for our commitment to public engagement from the National Co-ordinating Centre for Public Engagement (NCCPE).
Strategic Framework
Our Strategic Framework outlines the key mutual benefits of public engagement for communities and the University as well as our commitments to inclusive and reflective practice.
Lancashire Science Festival
Every year we hold the Lancashire Science Festival which takes place on our Preston campus. A fun-filled celebration of all things science, technology, engineering and maths. The free festival includes interactive live shows, workshops and drop-in activities. There are two days for local primary schools and a public day for everyone.
Comensus
Community Engagement and Service User Support (Comensus) brings the service user and carer voice to several of our Schools. Our service user, patient and carer contributors use their lived experiences to help shape our research and teaching. You can find out more about their work and the opportunities to get involved on their page.
Community Action Forum
The Community Action Forum runs three times a year. It offers an informal space for our colleagues, members of the public and community organisations to; network, improve community engagement with and beyond our University, consider and promote reciprocal benefits for all, work together on research, teaching, learning and problem solving and celebrate achievements.
Events are delivered in partnership with Comensus, the CVCL and our community networks. For more information on the next event or details of how to get involved, please get in touch.
Engaged Students
From running Citizens Advice clinics to theatre performances. Our students are learning from and sharing with our communities.
If you're a student interested in getting involved in community projects speak to your course leaders or contact the Centre for Volunteering and Community Leadership for volunteering opportunities.