Rights of Rivers Confluence
Part of the River Medway Pilgrimage 2026
Register here
Friday 24 July 2026 | 10am-4pm | The Friars, Aylesford Priory
As part of the River Medway Pilgrimage 2026 - a journey following the river from source to sea - we are delighted to host the second Rights of Rivers Confluence.
Hosted by Friends of the River Medway, this gathering builds on the powerful conversations that began at our first Confluence in 2025, when councillors from across the Medway catchment came together for the first time to explore how local authorities, communities and river organisations can work together for the future of the river.
That gathering created a new space for collaboration, recognising that the health of the Medway depends on shared responsibility across the whole catchment. Since then, these conversations have helped inspire practical action, including the development of a Rights of Nature framework by Maidstone Borough Council, and growing interest from other councils in exploring how a rights-based approach can support river restoration and long-term stewardship.
Widening the circle
This year, we are building on the foundations created in 2025 by widening invitations beyond councillors to include people who are interested in exploring the rights of rivers and rights of nature approach, and who want to understand how communities can engage with decision-makers in meaningful ways.
We are inviting:
Ward councillors and representatives from across the Medway catchment
Organisations pioneering work in river health and restoration
Community members, river guardians and those interested in rights of rivers
The heart of the day remains focused on dialogue between councils and local river leaders, with additional places available for those wishing to listen, witness and contribute to the wider movement.
Together, we hope to strengthen a growing network of people committed to the wellbeing of the River Medway, while also casting the net wider, and helping to contribute to the growing Rights of Rivers movement around the country.
Programme
10:00: Welcome, tea & coffee
10:15-11:30am: Rights of Rivers: The Progress of a National and Global movement
With Paul Powesland and guests
Exploring how rivers are being recognised through law, governance and culture with leading Rights of Nature experts.
11:45-1:15pm: The River Medway Guardians Legacy Initiative
An inter-council exploration of how we can empower and resource river guardians across the Medway catchment.
1:15pm Lunch
An optional buffet lunch provided by The Friars.
A contribution towards costs (£15 per person) can be added when booking.
2:15-3pm: Making River Rights a Reality
How Maidstone and other councils are moving from principle into practice — creating frameworks that recognise and support the river’s wellbeing.
3pm: Pilgrimage Procession and River Pledges
Join the Medway pilgrims for a short walk to the old bridge at Aylesford for a collective declaration in honour of the River Medway and all rivers.
More about the River Medway Pilgrimage
The River Medway Pilgrimage is a multi-day journey from the source of the River Medway to where she meets the Thames. It is a fusion of ecological action, advocacy of the Rights of the River Medway, and sacred connection. Combining citizen science, litter picks, awareness-raising, conferences with farmers and councillors, creative expression, music, and water ceremonies, it invites a unique opportunity to connect deeply with the living landscape; and to sow seeds for change.
To find out more, visit our website: https://www.formedway.org.
Follow us on Instagram @formedway_