'Shining a light on the key issues that women still face' Festival of Women 2026 in Lancashire
"Every day we work alongside incredible women.”
Lancashire Women has announced the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) for Lancashire as the headline sponsor of Festival of Women 2026.
A new event exploring issues shaping women’s lives and futures, the festival is organised by Lancashire Women and will bring together decision-makers, professionals, researchers, campaigners and community leaders from the public, private and voluntary sectors.
Health, wealth and safety
Taking place at Blackpool’s iconic Winter Gardens on 6 November 2026, the event will focus on the themes of health, wealth and safety. The programme will feature keynote speakers, panel discussions, interactive workshops, networking opportunities and an exhibition marketplace showcasing organisations working to improve outcomes for women.
The OPCC’s sponsorship reflects a shared commitment to tackling violence against women and girls, strengthening communities and creating lasting social change. One of the confirmed keynote speakers is Joeli Brearley MBE, founder of Pregnant Then Screwed.
She will discuss her personal experience of pregnancy discrimination and examine what employers, policymakers and society can do to create fairer opportunities for women.
Shining a light on the key issues that women still face
Siobhan Collingwood, Chief Executive of Lancashire Women, said: "Every day we work alongside incredible women. But individual strength, determination and resilience can only go so far when the systems around us are not designed with women's needs in mind.
“Festival of Women is about shining a light on the key issues that women still face as barriers to equality in their health, wealth and safety. It will amplify the voices of women and men working quietly and purposefully to resist the inevitability of inequality and the message of ‘That's just the way it is.’
“The event will bring people together to have honest conversations, celebrate progress, showcase positive alternatives and build the partnerships needed to create lasting change. We are therefore delighted to welcome the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Lancashire as our headline sponsor."
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Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw said: “Sponsoring the Festival of Women is an important reflection of my commitment to tackling violence against women and girls, strengthening partnership working, and ensuring that lived experiences shape the services we provide.
“Events like this give us vital opportunity to engage with communities, raise awareness of support available, and champion preventative approaches. By listening and working together, we can continue to improve outcomes for women across Lancashire and build safer, more confident communities.”
Evening celebration
Following the daytime conference, guests will be able to continue the conversation at the Festival’s Evening Celebration. The evening will feature fine dining, live entertainment and fundraising in support of Lancashire Women, providing an opportunity for attendees to connect, reflect and look ahead with hope, ambition and purpose.
Festival of Women 2026 promises a day of discussion, connections and practical action, followed by an evening of celebration and fundraising. For more information and tickets, head to: www.lancashirewomen.org/festival-of-women 2026