.png)
Policy360: Unplugged
At Policy360, we empower charities, communities, and advocates to engage directly with policymakers and share the impactful work happening within their communities.
Through candid conversations with decision-makers, our podcast provides you with insider insights and practical strategies to influence public policy and drive social change.
We also highlight the innovative efforts of groups working on the ground, offering listeners a glimpse into how they are making a difference.
Join us as we foster stronger connections between communities and policymakers, amplify voices, and explore real-world examples of positive change.
Episodes
30 episodes
Phillip Brett MLA: Championing Inclusive Growth and Community Engagement
In this episode of Policy360: Unplugged, Phillip Brett, DUP MLA for North Belfast, shares his journey from a non-political upbringing to becoming a representative for a community with significant socio-economic challenges. ...
•
Season 4
•
Episode 7
•
16:01
.png)
Steve Aiken MLA: Unlocking Northern Ireland’s Potential Through Collaboration and Vision
In this episode of Policy360: Unplugged, Steve Aiken, MLA for the Ulster Unionist Party, shares his journey into politics and his vision for Northern Ireland’s future. From his military background to his political career, Steve reflect...
•
Season 4
•
Episode 6
•
24:00
Linda Dillon MLA: Standing Up for Communities and Driving Change
In this episode of Policy360: Unplugged, Linda Dillon, Sinn Féin MLA for Mid Ulster and a member of the health committee, shares her inspiring journey into politics, driven by a passion for standing up for the underdog. Linda reflects ...
•
Season 4
•
Episode 5
•
18:08
From Journalism to Politics: Deborah Erskine on Advocacy, Legislation, and Community Impact
In this insightful episode of Policy360: Unplugged, Deborah Erskine, MLA for Fermanagh and South Tyrone, shares her inspiring journey from journalism to politics. Encouraged by Arlene Foster and driven by a passion for community servic...
•
Season 4
•
Episode 4
•
21:32
Telling Authentic Stories: Niamh Campbell on Journalism, Trust, and Charity Engagement
In this episode of Policy360: Unplugged, journalist Niamh Campbell from the Belfast Telegraph shares her journey into journalism and her passion for storytelling. Niamh delves into the challenges of building trust in the media, particu...
•
Season 4
•
Episode 3
•
23:59
The Power of Media: Amanda Ferguson on Representation, Storytelling, and Influencing Policy
In this episode of Policy360: Unplugged, journalist and commentator Amanda Ferguson joins me to discuss the powerful role of media in shaping policy, public perceptions, and representation in Northern Ireland.We explore...
•
Season 4
•
Episode 2
•
22:08
Breaking Barriers: Danielle Roberts on Representation, Resilience, and the Fight to End Violence Against Women
In this powerful episode of Policy360: Unplugged, Danielle Roberts joins me to explore the critical issues impacting women across Northern Ireland. From the challenges of underrepresentation in policy and decision-making to the urgent ne...
•
Season 4
•
Episode 1
•
30:53
Powering Change: John O'Doherty on Advocacy, Collaboration, and Community Impact
In this episode of Policy 360: Unplugged I sit down with John O'Doherty, a seasoned advocate to explore the transformative power of advocacy and collaboration. John shares his journey from grassroots activism to leading impac...
•
Season 3
•
Episode 7
•
30:35
Voices from the Community: Sarah Bunting on Advocating for Belfast’s Working-Class Neighbourhoods
In this episode, I speak with Sarah Bunting, a Belfast City Councillor for the DUP, about her journey into politics and the importance of community advocacy. Sarah shares her experiences growing up in a working-class estate and the...
•
Season 3
•
Episode 6
•
19:07
Independent Voices and Public Service Priorities: Claire Sugden on Navigating Northern Ireland’s Political Landscape
In this episode of *Policy360: Unplugged*, Northern Ireland MLA Claire Sugden discusses her decision to remain an independent politician and the challenges of navigating a political landscape often dominated by party interests. ...
•
Season 3
•
Episode 5
•
21:58
From Youth Work to Politics: Colin McGrath on Community, Accountability, and the Role of Opposition in Northern Ireland
In this episode of **Policy360: Unplugged**, I sit down with Colin McGrath, MLA for the SDLP, to explore his journey from youth work to a significant role in Northern Ireland's government. Colin discusses the importance of staying ...
•
Season 3
•
Episode 4
•
25:26
UUP Councillor Andrew Wilson's Political Journey: From Grassroots Advocacy to Community Champion
In this episode, we delve into the political journey of Councillor Andrew Wilson, a dedicated Ulster Unionist Party representative. Andrew shares his inspiring story, from his early days in community involvement to becoming a Councillor in loca...
•
Season 3
•
Episode 3
•
30:25
Brexit, Accountability, and the Future of Northern Ireland: A Conversation with Matthew O'Toole, SDLP MLA and Leader of the Opposition
In this compelling episode, I sit down with Matthew O'Toole, SDLP MLA and Leader of the Opposition, to explore the personal and professional experiences that inspired his political journey, particularly in light of Brexit. We discu...
•
Season 3
•
Episode 2
•
36:56
Engaging with Policy Makers: Insights from UUP Deputy Leader Robbie Butler
In this episode, I sit down with Robbie Butler, Deputy Leader of the Ulster Unionist Party and MLA, to explore effective strategies for engaging with policy makers. Robbie shares his experiences and provides an insider’s perspective on what it’...
•
Season 3
•
Episode 1
•
34:44
Charity Connection: Engaging with the EU Post-Brexit With Katy Hayward
Welcome to “Policy 360: Unplugged,” where we peel back the layers of policy intricacies with insightful conversations. I’m your host, Ellen Finlay, and today, we have a special guest joining us, Katy Hayward from Queen’s University Belfast. Tog...
•
Season 2
•
Episode 8
•
26:49
Influencing MPs: Strategies for Charities with SDLP MP Claire Hanna
Welcome to “Policy 369 Unplugged,” hosted by Ellen Finlay. In this podcast, we explore the art of influencing policies at Westminster, featuring an exclusive interview with MP Claire Hanna. Join us as we delve into the significance of establish...
•
Season 2
•
Episode 7
•
24:58
.jpg)
Empowering Democracy: Conversations with Rebekah McCabe from Involve
I’m thrilled to invite you to listen to this enlightening podcast where I had the pleasure of conversing with Rebekah McCabe from Involve. Together, we explore the fascinating realm of participatory democracy and community empowerment, shedding...
•
Season 2
•
Episode 6
•
39:30
%203.jpg)
Empowering Voices: A Conversation with Shannon O'Connell on Political Leadership and Advocacy
In this episode, I sit down with Shannon O'Connell, Director of Policy and Programmes at Westminster Foundation for Democracy, to discuss her extensive experience in politics, policy advocacy, and elections. From her work with women candidates ...
•
Season 2
•
Episode 5
•
25:45
%202.jpg)
Westminster Influence: A Conversation with Michelle Gildernew Sinn Fein MP
Join me for an insightful episode of as I sit down with Michelle Gildernew, Sinn Fein Member of Parliament, to delve into the strategies and tactics behind effectively influencing decisions at Westminster. As a seasoned politician and advocate,...
•
Season 2
•
Episode 2
•
32:54
Equality Matters: Collaborative Advocacy with Geraldine McGaghy, Chief Commissioner of the Equality Commission
Join host Ellen Finlay as she engages in a crucial dialogue with Geraldine McGaghy, Chief Commissioner of the Equality Commission. This episode explores the vital intersection of equality, community, and the voluntary sector. Gain insights into...
•
Season 2
•
Episode 4
•
34:48
Empowering Rural Women: Influencing Policies at Westminster and the EU with Louise Coyle
Join host Ellen Finlay in a captivating conversation with Louise Coyle, Director of the NI Women’s Rural Network. Explore the unique needs of rural women and delve into discussions on how to effectively influence policies both at Westminster an...
•
Season 2
•
Episode 3
•
38:00
Charity Influence: Navigating EU Policy in Northern Ireland with Irish MEP Barry Andrews.
Join host Ellen Finlay and special guest MEP Barry Andrews as they explore the intricate landscape of charity influence in Northern Ireland’s policy arena within the EU. Discover whether charities should actively shape EU policies and unravel s...
•
Season 2
•
Episode 1
•
23:29
Policy360 Unplugged: Strengthening Charities Impact on Policy with John McAllister
Welcome to Policy360: Unplugged, the podcast where I bring you insightful conversations with policy makers to help you engage better to influence policy to improve outcomes for those you represent.Today’s episode is with former MLA &...
•
Season 1
•
Episode 8
•
37:26
Policy360 Unplugged: Strengthening Charities’ Impact on Policy With Ian Jeffers
As outgoing Commissioner for Victims and Survivors, Ian Jeffers discusses his time in office and how groups might go about influencing when policy is developed at Westminster.
•
Season 1
•
Episode 7
•
27:30
Policy360 Unplugged: Strengthening Charities’ Impact on Policy with Sir David Sterling, Former Head of NICS
Welcome to Policy360:Unplugged, the podcast where we bring you insightful conversations with policy makers to help you engage better to influence policy to improve outcomes for those you represent. Today’s episode is with Sir David...
•
Season 1
•
Episode 6
•
35:34
