RSA Newcastle Encounter: Lightopia and Collective Giving

This month's thematic Encounter will be hosted by Matt Wilson FRSA, looking at society’s relationship with money. Bringing variety to our Newcastle events and discussion, we will also examine the impact of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) with Neina Sheldon FRSA exploring the emerging light and wellbeing arena.

Do Winter Blues impact on the quality of your life?

Neina Sheldon FRSA works with Lightopia CIC, which has found that almost one-third of the UK's adult population say they feel negatively impacted by lack of light (tired, low mood, lacking in motivation, less productive, less social) for up to half of the year. The symptoms are known as Winter Blues in its milder form, and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) when it becomes debilitating. They have a huge impact on quality of life, relationships, health and productivity.

“Lightopia doesn't think this is acceptable! We want people to live their fullest, happiest and most fruitful lives possible. What would be the impact on our health services, our economy, and most importantly, our happiness and wellbeing levels, if we addressed our light nutrition needs? Let's find out!”

Neina facilitates the conversation across industries, raises awareness and helps find solutions to make people feel better. She will share some of her stakeholders’ thoughts, and looks forward to hearing Fellows' experiences, ideas on what products/services they think might help, and any connections and advice they might have.

Common Wealth: can collective giving help us reimagine our relationship with money?

Matt Wilson FRSA is approaching the end of his William Leech research fellowship and will be presenting his work to us.

His research, which sits at the intersection of theology and economics, takes a long view of the evolution of the relationship between money and society. He explores this using framing ideas such as abundance and scarcity, and autonomy vs community. Seeking a way to overcome some of the problems he perceives, the work homes in on the 'collective giving' movement as a promising new way forward.

The recent emergence of 'Giving Circles' are presented as regional examples of change beginning to take place.

Location: Ampersand Inventions (Fourth Floor), Commercial Union House, 39 Pilgrim Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 6QE

If you have any access requirements or require any reasonable adjustments, please let the team know: networks@rsa.org.uk. Please also let us know if you have any dietary requirements or severe allergies.