The Challenge
Crisis, the leading national charity for people experiencing homelessness, came to Whitehouse Communications for support in delivering an ambitious Summit. The aim was to bring together MPs, ministers, sector leaders, and those with lived experience to explore real solutions to end homelessness.
Crisis wanted to ensure the Summit took an ambitious, innovative approach – harnessing government momentum with high-profile speakers and a dynamic agenda of breakout sessions to tackle specialist policy challenges.
The Strategy
After discussions with Crisis to understand their vision, Whitehouse quickly developed a live project plan to deliver the event within a three-month period.
We secured a high-profile Westminster venue to provide the stage for discussions and curated a list of compelling keynote speakers. We also built guest lists spanning ministerial, parliamentary, civil service, sectoral, and local authority stakeholders.
Working closely with Crisis, we developed a strong narrative that provided clarity and purpose for the Summit’s aims. This underpinned all communications, from web content to keynote and guest invitations.
Whitehouse also managed RSVPs, logistics, branded event assets (including a digital programme), and tailored speaker briefings and notes for both keynote and breakout session speakers.
On the day itself, Whitehouse staff oversaw all logistical aspects – from guest registration to speaker liaison – ensuring a seamless attendee experience.
The Outcome
The Summit was a resounding success, bringing together Ministers, Parliamentarians, government leaders, the voluntary sector, and people with lived experience to discuss how to end homelessness. The day featured powerful discussions, keynote speeches, panel debates, and breakout sessions where leading practitioners and policy experts shared bold ideas for change.
The real strength of the Summit lay in the impact and diversity of its keynote speeches, all delivered with a united hope and determination to find solutions.
Speakers included:
- Former Minister for Homelessness, Rushanara Ali
- Former Deputy Prime Minister, Angela Rayner
- Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham
- Cross-party MP panel: Paula Barker MP, Rachel Blake MP, Vikki Slade MP, and Chris Vince MP
- Deputy Mayor of London, Tom Copley
- Prominent journalist Dan Hewitt, award-winning for his work on Britain’s social housing crisis
- Tireless campaigners Kwajo Tweneboa and Lara Oyedele
- Speakers with lived experience, whose contributions were widely regarded as the most powerful of the day
The Summit also secured extensive coverage across national, broadcast, and trade media outlets.
Experts in delivering impact
At Whitehouse Communications, we are experts at designing and delivering events that bring the right people into the room and speak directly to government priorities.
If you’d like to discuss how we can help your business or organisation shape the government agenda, please contact us at info@whitehousecomms.com.
