Together in Care Conference

Together in Care: Strengthening Partnerships Between Social Work and Residential Childcare

📅 10th OR 11th September 2025

📍 Blue Elephant Childcare Ltd – Training Hub, Unit 28 Chivenor Business Park, Barnstaple, EX31 4AY

Two dates, one inspiring event – choose the day that works best for you!

About the ConferenceJoin us for Together in Care, a full-day conference designed to strengthen collaboration between social work and residential childcare professionals. Through honest discussion, expert-led workshops, and shared lived experience, we’ll explore how to build trust, reframe perceptions, and work together for the best outcomes for children in care.

This event is ideal for social workers and social worker managers, local authority placement and commissioning teams, and other local authority professionals passionate about creating better futures for children. If you are uncertain if this event is for you, please contact us on info@bluelephant.org.uk

Conference Schedule

9:00 – 9:30Welcome & Registration – Arrival and networking

9:30 – 9:45Opening Remarks – Keith Burley, Managing Director

9:45 – 10:30What Really Happens in a Children’s Home? – Panel discussion led by Kealeigh Braund and team

10:30 – 11:15Residential Care as a Positive Choice – Reframing the Narrative – Guest speaker: Steve Powell

11:15 – 11:30Break – Tea & coffee from Nellie’s Coffee Bar – Coffee with a Purpose

11:30 – 12:30Workshop 1: Understanding Trauma in Residential Settings – Led by Lucy Squire, Director of Care

12:30 – 1:15Lunch – Buffet lunch from Nellie’s Coffee Bar – Coffee with a Purpose

1:15 – 2:15Workshop 2: The Step-Across Model – From Residential to Foster Care – Introduced by Simon Coles, Specialist Home Manager

2:15 – 3:00Workshop 3: Building Bridges – Collaborative Working – Led by Abigail Milton, Operations Director

3:00 – 3:15Break – Informal networking

3:15 – 4:00Final Session: Purpose before Profit – Supporting Transitions to Adulthood – Led by Keith Burley, featuring Nellie’s Coffee Bar & Future Steps CIC

Why Attend?

• Gain real insight into life in residential care
• Hear from sector leaders and experienced practitioners
• Take away practical strategies for better collaborative working
• Network with peers across social work and residential care
• Enjoy locally sourced refreshments from Nellie’s Coffee Bar – Coffee with a Purpose

🎟 Book your ticket now and be part of the conversation shaping the future of children’s care.lcaeprofessionals, and anyone passionate about creating better futures for children in care.