THE FUTURE OF COMMUNITY: Connecting People in a Digital World

The Future of Community: Connecting People in a Digital World

Are we more connected than ever, or further apart?

The Croft@Crook hosts an open session at St. Oswald's Church Institute Hall. A seat of learning & philosophy, steeped in history, for a community based engagement on our County's shared social and digital future.

An inspiring, forward-thinking exploration of what it means to belong in 2026. As our lives shift increasingly online, the way we build neighborhoods, support one another, and create lasting impact is changing.

This isn't a tech talk its’s a chance to slow to civic speed and discuss social and digital connection.

In an era of digital noise, finding genuine Community can feel like a challenge. This event brings together local leaders, digital innovators, and community members to consider how, together, we can use the tools of the future to strengthen the roots of the present.

• Visionary Discussions: Be part of the conversation on how Phygital (Physical + Digital) Spaces can actually enhance physical community-led action.
• Networking with Purpose: Connect with like-minded changemakers, local residents, and the team behind The Croft@Crook CIC.
• The Foundation for Change: Learn about our mission to create a sustainable, tech-empowered, and deeply human future for our local area.

"The digital world shouldn’t replace Community, because it can sync with us." Ben Straughair (GM of TC@C).

Whether you are a community organizer, a tech enthusiast, or simply someone who cares about the future of our County, Community, Culture & Connectivity, your very real voice matters.

& the persuader...

We know the best ideas happen when we we freely associate with shared commons. To make the data transfer easier, every attendee will receive:

Birthday Bootie Bag

A Croft@Crook curated promo pack, exclusive AGM Fanzine, community essentials for phygital-world survival (No not a dictionary).

Socio-Digital Surprises

Guests, Project Reveals and throughout the day engaging ways to spark imagination and mesh new networks together.

Buffering Buffet

Microcrisps, Marshmallow Cloud Storage and more with a free buffet and a selection of soft drinks provided by The Croft@Crook CIC l St. Oswald’s l Local Community Champions.

Experience Exchange

A dedicated space to share our own stories and find the next collaboration, partnership or supporter in a warm, informal & welcoming place.

Note: A detailed agenda and speaker list will be released one week prior to the event.

Secure your spot now to be part of the foundation!

• St Oswald’s Church: www.oswalds.org.uk
• King’s Church Durham: www.kingschurchdurham.co.uk
• Durham Community Action: www.durhamcommunityaction.org.uk
• The Croft@Crook CIC:
• LISTENai:
• Good Things Foundation:

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

St Oswald's Church, Durham, United Kingdom

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

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