TSI Network Conference 2025
Our team had two inspiring days at the annual TSI Conference in Glasgow!
It was fantastic to reconnect with members of the TSI Scotland Network and dive into thought-provoking discussions on voluntary and public sector partnerships, the future of charity law, and the growing role of AI in the third sector.
Ed Strutt, our Communications and Engagement Officer, reflects on Day 1 at TSI Conference in Glasgow on Tuesday 28 October.
The day kicked off with a keynote from Alex Wright, Head of Regulation and Improvement at OSCR, who shared insights into the future of charity law and governance. Alex was then joined by Steve Kent OSCR (Policy Manager) and Claire Morrison (Senior Policy & Sector Improvement), who spoke about OSCR’s evolving role in supporting Scotland’s third sector.
Some great insights on Cross Sector Leadership in a session led by Valerie White (Director of Public Health, NHS Dumfries) and Alan Webb (CEO, TSI Dumfries & Galloway). They both highlighted the need for a cross sectoral approach as highlighted in Scotland’s Population Health Framework 2025–2035. They also shared the ways that public and third sector partnerships can help improve the health of Scottish communities.
Edward Fitsell from tsiMORAY offered practical strategies to reduce overwhelm and boost productivity, with smart ideas for doing more with less.
The day wrapped up with a thought-provoking panel chaired by Natalie Masterson (Stirlingshire Voluntary Enterprise), featuring Louise Drumm (Napier University), Mhairi Wylie (Highland TSI), and Edward Fitsell. The panel explored the growing role of AI across TSIs, highlighting how it’s being used to increase productivity and support members. There was also interesting discussions around how TSI's can develop AI maturity across Scotland’s third sector.
A key takeaway was that whilst AI powered tools offer exciting opportunities for reducing busy work loads and increasing capacity for face-to-face support, critical thinking and goal-focused leadership remain essential in navigating rapidly-evolving AI technology.