Identifying and Countering Misinformation Training

VAST are running a training session on identifying and countering misinformation at The Dudson Centre on Thursday 12 November, from 1:00pm to 3:00pm. It's a two-hour afternoon slot in Hanley, and it's free to attend.

The session is built around the way misinformation spreads both online and offline, and the threat it poses to community cohesion, to trust in VCSE and statutory services, and to the effectiveness of sector support. It's framed as a practical one: you'll learn how to spot trustworthy news sources, the common signs of misinformation and disinformation, and techniques for challenging false claims without escalating conflict. There's also a focus on how to draw on lived experience and community assets to counter false narratives.

VAST brings a century of experience to the training, which they've designed to help organisations recognise and respond to misinformation in ways that strengthen community relationships and build resilience. The whole thing is delivered by VAST, so it's their approach and their background running through it.

It runs from 1:00pm to 3:00pm on Thursday 12 November at The Dudson Centre, Hope Street, Hanley, ST1 5DD, in Stoke-on-Trent. It's free, and free for VAST members.