About

 This event is part two of our two-part series. You can view part one here: Politics Mini-Series: Influence in Post-Election Scotland. Book this session individually or save with a Series Pass. 

How do voluntary sector leaders maintain trust in an era of polarised narratives? This session explores the reality of the fragmented media landscape in Scotland and across the UK, examining the challenges that trust erosion, misinformation, and disinformation pose to news journalism and civil society. 

Drawing on newsroom insights and current audience research, we will look at how news companies are building direct relationships with audiences and doubling down on trust, while competing against algorithms and AI. We will also examine how a small number of voices and networks can influence public discourse and fuel a narrative of polarisation.

Participants will leave with a practical toolkit enabling them to:

• Position their organisation as a relevant and trusted voice.
• Take control of the narrative and correct misinformation or disinformation without escalating risk or conflict.
• Communicate value, credibility, and impact effectively.

About the Speaker

Maeve Connolly is co-director of the not-for-profit Raised Voices CIC and has been a journalist for 25 years. In June 2026, Raised Voices published reporting guidelines for the media on asylum seekers, refugees, and migration in Northern Ireland, developed through consultation with community organisations and the media.

Maeve is the former head of audience strategy and growth at the Irish News, where she guided the legacy news organisation through its digital transformation. She holds an MA in Journalism Innovation and Leadership from the University of Lancashire and has a particular interest in next-gen audiences, trust, and the role of journalism in a post-conflict society.

Booking Information

We are offering a discounted rate for those who wish to attend both sessions in this series.

• Series Pass (Members Only): £125
• Series Pass (Non-Members): £250

If you would like to book for the full series, please select the 'Series Pass' ticket type.

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