On Thursday 23rd April 2026, members of Tyne & Wear Citizens will come together in Sunderland Minster for a major Election Assembly ahead of the local council elections.

This spring’s elections come at a significant moment for Sunderland. With all-out council elections taking place, the outcome will shape the direction of the city and the priorities of its leadership for years to come. Decisions made by the next council will affect housing, public services, jobs, safety and the wellbeing of communities across Sunderland.

The Election Assembly is a chance to act together at a critical moment. Rooted in listening that has taken place across our member institutions, the Assembly will bring hundreds of organised citizens face-to-face with candidates from across the political spectrum. We will ask them to listen carefully, respond publicly, and make clear commitments to work with our alliance on the issues facing our communities.

As always, Tyne & Wear Citizens will remain strictly politically neutral. Candidates from all major parties and independents will be invited and held to the same standards of respect, accountability and seriousness. Our focus is on the issues shaping people’s lives in Sunderland, and on building strong, constructive relationships with those elected to lead the city after May.

This Assembly will be a public moment of accountability and hope: communities speaking with confidence about the pressures they face, and candidates responding in front of the people they seek to represent.

Please sign up to attend and be part of this important moment for Sunderland!

Tickets are required but can be booked for free here.