Our 2026 conference will bring together academics and practitioners to critically examine how ageism and the outdated concept of retirement continue to shape attitudes and behaviours towards older people. It will explore how demographic change, evolving patterns of work in later life, and accelerating technological innovation are reshaping the future of age inclusive living.
Throughout the day, participants will consider whether the traditional notion of retirement still serves society’s needs. Discussions will investigate how housing and communities can be designed to better support intergenerational living, as well as how emerging technologies and AI can be confidently and ethically integrated to enhance independence, inclusion, and quality of life.
Details of the full timetable are below and we're excited to share details of the keynote speaker, Professor Martin Hyde (British Society of Gerontology).
10am - 10:15am: Welcome
- Dr Bruce Moore, Housing 21
10:15am - 10:45am: Keynote speaker
- Professor Martin Hyde, British Society of Gerontology
10:45am - 12:15pm: Making intergenerational communities
- Chaired by:
- Charlotte Cook, Winckworth Sherwood
- Speakers:
- Emily Abbott, Intergenerational England
- Lois Beech, Housing LIN
- Savannah Fishel
- Angela Hardman and Denise Fowler, Phoenix Community Housing
12:15pm - 1pm: Lunch
1pm - 2pm: Later life in transition
- Chaired by:
- Speakers:
- Dr Louise Overton, CHASM, University of Birmingham
- Ashleigh Bryant, CBRE
- Professor Matt Flynn, University of Leicester
2pm - 2:30pm: Break
2:30pm - 3:30pm: AI
- Chaired by:
- Sean Lawless, North Star Housing Group
- Speakers:
- Vicky Carne, 3A-AI Ltd
- Dr Deborah Morgan, Swansea University
- Phil Shelton, Housing AI
3:30pm - 4pm: Summary and close
- Liz Zacharias, Campbell Tickell
- Dr Bruce Moore, Housing 21
- Jane Holbrook, Housing 21
4pm - 5pm: Drinks reception (all welcome)