Memorial conference recognises the work of UCLan academic in tackling homelessness

The conference recognises the work done by Jo Cunningham to forge links between UCLan and the Foxton Centre

A memorial conference recognising the work of a UCLan academic into street homelessness will be held in her name to mark the Foxton Centre‘s 50th year.

Jo Cunningham, the head of Social Work, Care and Community, forged strong links between the university and homeless charity in her role as researcher and on the Board of Trustees for the Foxton Centre.

She passed away aged 50 in September 2017 after a battle with cancer.

The conference, on June 25, will include keynote speakers and workshops, providing an overview of the current homeless situation. legislation and policy and its effect on families.

The event, which will be held at the Greenbank Lecture Theatre, is open to staff in the housing sector, children’s and adult services and staff in the voluntary and independent sector.

It will be of particular interest to social work and social care staff, housing officers, managers, performance and policy staff, education and training providers.

Fiona Harbin of UCLAN said: “Street homelessness is a priority issue for public policy and practice.

“The School of Social Work, Care and Community at UCLan has close links with the Foxton Centre, and before her death, Jo Cunningham, the Head of School, was involved with the work of the centre both through her research and in her role on the board of trustees.

“To commemorate her work and to acknowledge the 501h Anniversary of the work undertaken by the Foxton Centre, this memorial conference has been organised by the University’s Making Research Count programme in partnership with The Foxton Centre.”

Speakers will include Professor Nicholas Pleace, Director of the Centre for Housing Policy at the University of York, Professor Alastair Roy of UCLAN, Councillor Nweeda Khan of Preston City Council and Jeff Marsh, CEO at The Foxton Centre.

Professor Aiden Worsley will open the conference with a eulogy to Jo Cunningham.

John Parkinson, Chair of Trustees at The Foxton Centre added: “Jo Cunningham was an active and enthusiast Trustee who brought energy, commitment and rigour to our management board.

“She played a significant part in developing the strong links between UCLAN and The Foxton Centre.

“It’s very fitting that in our fiftieth anniversary year we should be following in her footsteps with a conference that brings together UCLAN research and The Foxton Centre practice in supporting homeless people in Preston.”

For further details and to book a place on the event contact: Making Research Count Administrator SWCCResearch@uclan.ac.uk