Attending a large event for the first time, or even returning after a break, can sometimes feel a little daunting, especially if you’re not sure who else will be there. To help make the PACED26 as welcoming and inclusive as possible, we have the PACED26 Buddy Scheme available to all attendees.
Whether you’re attending on your own, new to the sector, or simply keen to make a connection ahead of the event, this scheme is designed to help you feel supported and part of the community from the moment you arrive in Nottingham.
We’re inviting attendees to take part in one of two ways:
1. Request a Buddy
If you’d like to be paired with someone ahead of the event:
- Email events@ucisa.ac.uk
- We’ll introduce you to a fellow attendee before the conference
- You can agree a time to meet up on arrival and check in with each other throughout the event
This is ideal for first time attendees, those attending solo, or anyone who’d appreciate a friendly contact from the start.
2. Volunteer to Be a Buddy
If you’re happy to support someone and be a welcoming face:
- Email events@ucisa.ac.uk to let us know you’d like to act as a buddy
- We’ll match you with an attendee and introduce you ahead of the conference
- Your role is simply to be a welcoming face and a point of contact during the event
It’s a great way to help others get the most from their experience at PACED26.
Whether you’d like to be paired with a buddy or volunteer to support someone else, we’d love to hear from you.
If you’re unsure about taking part or feel it might not be for you, there’s the newcomer's session (Getting Started: Meet the Community) on Day 1 instead. Taking place Wednesday 25th November at 11:30, this will be an opportunity to learn more about the event and to meet other attendees.
Thank you for helping us make PACED26 a warm, inclusive, and engaging experience for everyone.
