The third People’s Powerhouse convention took place in Sunderland. This was part of the movement’s mission to shine a light on more of the North’s fantastic people and places.
Who are People’s Powerhouse
We have provided communications support for three People’s Powerhouse conventions. We are very proud to have worked closely with the movement since its inception.
The movement’s third convention took place at Sunderland’s Beacon Of Light. This shone a spotlight on the importance of arts and culture.
The value of arts and culture in creating strong and thriving communities can so easily get overlooked – which feels totally wrong. So we were pleased to secure BBC Radio Newcastle coverage. This highlighted how young musician Faye Fantarrow had played an important role in welcoming people to the event.
Introducing Tortoise to the People’s Powerhouse
At High-Rise we’re big fans (and readers) of Tortoise and its approach to news-gathering. Tortoise takes more time to explore and consider the issues rather than just getting a few soundbites and moving on. We put Tortoise and the People’s Powerhouse in touch as we thought it makes total sense. Both have an interest in hearing from, and connecting, ordinary people outside the London media bubble. Tortoise held two think-ins at the Sunderland convention; and this will be a partnership that now continues into the future.
People’s Powerhouse media coverage
The response from media outlets was brilliant, with BBC Radio Newcastle, ITV Tyne Tees, Tortoise and the Sunderland Echo all there on the day.
With the buzz surrounding the upcoming election at the time and the leaders’ debate between Jeremy Corbyn and Boris Johnson airing later that evening, we were pleased with the amount of coverage gained on such a busy news day.
The MJ also ran a comment piece by Tracy Fishwick and the FT also wrote about the People’s Powerhouse.
BBC Radio Newcastle mentioned The People’s Powerhouse on both their drivetime show on 19 November, followed by another feature on their 20 November breakfast show. Meanwhile, BBC Radio Lancashire featured an interview with Tracy Fishwick and some young people who attended the Convention which ran a few days after the event.
If you are planning to host or attend an event, and would like PR and communications support to take it to the next level, then please reach out.