Read our latest blog post to find out what free learning opportunities we are providing for the groups and organisations across Milton Keynes. We’ve put together some fantastic sessions for your group to grow and be better equipped to serve your communities! Read on to find out more…
Over the coming months and into next year, we are hosting a range of free events, information sessions and webinars designed especially for voluntary and community groups across Milton Keynes. Whether you are part of a small local group or a larger organisation, these sessions offer a fantastic opportunity to learn, share ideas and connect with others making a difference in our community.
From practical learning to inspiring discussions and networking opportunities, our events are here to help your group thrive. Join us to build connections, discover fresh ideas and strengthen the impact of your work — all in a friendly and welcoming space.
Most of these sessions, meetings and events are funded by The National Lottery Community Fund as part of our capacity building programme for voluntary and community organisations and groups here at Community Action: MK.
Find out more of what’s happening when, and click the buttons on each event to learn more and book your space!
November
Community, Culture & Collaboration. An Afternoon of Learning & Inspiration: Sharing Cultural Heritage
Thursday 13th November 2025, 12.45 – 5pm
The Old Bath House and Community Centre, Wolverton
Join us for a free afternoon event hosted by AHA-MK in partnership with Community Action: MK, bringing together communities and cultural organisations to explore and celebrate Milton Keynes’ rich cultural heritage. Enjoy workshops, panel discussions and networking focused on key topics including place-making, digital accessibility, governance and sustainability.
Grant Application Workshop with MK Community Foundation
Monday 17th November, 10 – 11am
(Online)
Join us for an interactive information session with Milton Keynes Community Foundation to learn about their new grant programmes and new online grants portal. Get expert advice on making strong applications, and hear directly from a Philanthropy Officer!
AI Essentials
Thursday 20th November, 11am – 12pm
(Online)
Curious about AI but not sure where to begin? This practical session is perfect for community groups and charities who want to explore the basics without the jargon. Learn how to use AI tools safely, ethically and effectively, with guidance from Caroline Broadway (Dandelion Applied AI). No tech background required — just an open mind and curiosity!
Macmillan Community Event: Cancer Conversations
Thursday 20th November, 1 – 3pm
The Old Bath House & Community Centre, Wolverton
Join us for a special event bringing together healthcare professionals and local communities to strengthen connections and improve access to health and wellbeing support. Hear from Macmillan Cancer Support and BLMK ICB Cancer Care, meet local health services, and enjoy a light lunch and networking in a welcoming, relaxed setting.
This event, run by Community Action: MK and funded by Macmillan Cancer Support, is ideal for health professionals, carers, community groups, and anyone interested in improving access to wellbeing and cancer support.
Safeguarding Awareness Training
Thursday 27th November, 10am – 2.30pm
Campbell Park Pavilion, Campbell Park
.Join us for a Safeguarding Awareness Training session with Tammie Redman, designed for voluntary and community groups across Milton Keynes. Learn the essentials of safeguarding adults and children, including the key policies, procedures, and reporting processes your organisation should have in place.
This interactive session will help you build confidence, strengthen your safeguarding practices, and connect with others committed to keeping our communities safe.
Refugee Support Network Meeting
Thursday 27th November, 10:30am – 12pm
(Online)
This is a regular meeting of the Refugee Support Network, held every two months. The network brings together local organisations and individuals to share information, coordinate support, and improve outcomes for refugees and asylum seekers in Milton Keynes. All groups, including those not already engaged, are welcome to join.
December
Jingle & Mingle Networking Event
Thursday 4th December 2025
1:30 – 3:30pm
The Old Bath House & Community Centre, Wolverton
Join us for our annual Jingle & Mingle, a festive networking event for both groups and resident in Milton Keynes alike, celebrating sustainability and community connection this Christmas and beyond.
It will be an afternoon of festive cheer, conversation, and inspiration – and maybe even a mince pie! You will be able to learn simple ways to live more sustainably this festive season, discover local initiatives making a difference, and pick up ideas to carry forward into the new year!
January
Writing with AI
Thursday 8th January 2025, 11am – 12pm
(Online)
If you write funding bids, newsletters or social media posts, this practical session will help you get better results from AI tools. Learn how to guide tone and style, avoid clunky content, and make AI write in your voice — whether you’re using ChatGPT or Microsoft 365 Copilot. Led by Caroline Broadway (Dandelion Applied AI), this session is ideal for anyone keen to use AI confidently and effectively — no tech background required.
Volunteer Management Network – New Year Breakfast Meeting
Tuesday 21st January, 8:30 – 9:30am
Medical Detection Dogs, Great Horwood
Join us for our first in-person Volunteer Managers’ Breakfast Meeting, a brand-new format designed to help those who manage volunteers connect, share ideas and spark inspiration in a relaxed setting. Hosted by Claire Baker and the team at Medical Detection Dogs in Great Horwood, the morning includes a live dog demonstration and plenty of time for discussion and networking.
Together, we’ll look ahead to planning for 2026 — exploring priorities, challenges and opportunities for the year to come, all over coffee, pastries and great conversation.
LGBTQ+ Inclusivity Training with Q:alliance
Tuesday 27th January 2025, 10am – 12pm
CPCC Community Hub, Springfield
Join us for an LGBTQ+ Awareness and Inclusion Training session delivered by Q:alliance, Milton Keynes’ leading LGBTQ+ charity. Led by Jay Virgo (He/They), this interactive session will help you build understanding and confidence around gender, sexuality and identity, and explore how to create more inclusive spaces in your organisation and community.
Learn about inclusive language, pronoun use, allyship and the history of Pride, and take away practical tools to support equality and belonging in everything you do.
Refugee Support Network Meeting
Thursday 29th January, 12:30 – 2pm
(Online)
This is a regular meeting of the Refugee Support Network, held every two months. The network brings together local organisations and individuals to share information, coordinate support, and improve outcomes for refugees and asylum seekers in Milton Keynes. All groups, including those not already engaged, are welcome to join.
There will be plenty more sessions, training opportunities and chances to connect with the voluntary and community sector in 2026 – so watch this space!
If you have any questions about any of the events and sessions coming up, then please do not hesitate to get in touch at info@communityactionmk.org or support@communityactionmk.org
