How do communities move from being consulted to being genuinely heard? What does it take to turn knowledge into influence, and influence into action? And what happens when universities, civil society and local leaders commit to working together over the long term rather than through short-term projects?
In this episode of Placecast, we explore these questions through a rich conversation grounded in Birmingham and shaped by decades of lived experience. Bringing together Angela Jeffery, Saidul Haque Saeed and Professor Sara Jones, the discussion focuses on community organising, civic leadership and the often-unseen relational work that makes meaningful change possible. Rather than abstract theory, the podcast draws on concrete examples from neighbourhoods, institutions and campaigns that have reshaped how power operates at a local level.
Placecast is a Local Policy Innovation Partnership (LPIP) Hub production based at City-REDI, University of Birmingham. Our new podcast is essential listening for those keen to explore the ins and outs of knowledge mobilisation for influence in central and local government, based on the view that it’s only through animating the power of place-based leadership that the wicked problems of 2026 can become more manageable.
Angela Jeffery
Angela Jeffery has been working at the interface between communities, universities, business and the public sector for the last 25 years.
She is the Co-Chair of Birmingham Citizens UK, (an alliance of Faith, Education, Community and Union partners), Director at the Blesst Centre (a social enterprise focussed on supporting young people’s mental and physical health), Executive Director at Saathi House (a women’s charity in Aston focussed on empowering local women and young people to achieve their full potential and contribute positively to society) and Programme Lead with Community Connexions at Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Trust.
Visit Angela’s LinkedIn profile
Saidul Haque Saeed
Saidul Haque Saeed is the Lead Organiser for Citizens UK, supervising its work in the West Midlands and supporting the development of professional organisers and civil society leaders.
Visit Saidul's LinkedIn profile
Professor Sara Jones
Sara Jones is Professor of Languages, Cultures and Societies at the University of Birmingham. Her current research focuses on the intersection of memory studies and migration studies with a focus on Europe’s East. Sara is the academic lead for major cultural and community partnership initiatives.
Dr Nicola Headlam
Nicola has over 20 years of experience working across all aspects of the multi-helix innovation system, including central and local government, civil society and campaigning, academic research and knowledge mobilisation, and industry. Along the way, she has honed her expertise in urban and regional subnational economic development, the roles of government in shaping place, and in utilising data and evidence for transformation.
View Nicola's LinkedIn Profile
Find out more about the LPIP Hub.