Today we had the pleasure of delivering a CPD session to members of Women in Planning West Midlands, bringing together a brilliant group of planning professionals for an interactive, workshop-style conversation about one of the biggest challenges facing new development: how we motivate and mobilise support.

At Meeting Place, we know that gaining buy-in for new development goes far beyond policy compliance and technical detail. It’s about clearly defining, evidencing and articulating the social impact a scheme can deliver, and ensuring that message resonates with communities, stakeholders and decision-makers alike.

The session explored how social impact forms a powerful part of development messaging. Drawing on our groundbreaking research, Impact of a Home – launched last year with stories from Vistry and SNG, and developed with the support of economists at Loop – we shared how new homes can be better quantified in terms of the positive outcomes they deliver for people and places. From wellbeing and opportunity to community resilience, the research gives professionals the language and evidence needed to make the case for development with confidence.

True to the spirit of Women in Planning, the event was interactive. Delegates got stuck in with Q&As, post-it note exercises and open discussion, sharing their own experiences and challenges from across the planning system. The energy in the room made it clear just how important these conversations are.

A huge thank you to Women in Planning West Midlands, to Knights for hosting us and to all the delegates who joined and contributed so thoughtfully. We left inspired, challenged and excited about how stronger social impact storytelling can help unlock better outcomes for development and communities alike.

If you’d like to find out more about Impact of a Home or how we support clients to build momentum behind new development, we’d love to continue the conversation. You can read the full report here: https://meeting-place.uk/impact-of-a-home/