The agenda brings together some big topics and big names, and for anyone working across community-based care, mental health, learning disability or autism services, it’s a chance to think ahead, share ideas and connect with others facing similar challenges.
While the entire day is set to be packed with valuable discussions and insights, we’ve picked out three sessions we’re particularly looking forward to.
What does the 10-Year Plan mean for mental health and learning disabilities?
9:40–10:40am – Panel discussion
The morning panel looks like a strong opener, with speakers from the Department of Health, the NHS Confederation, and leaders with first-hand experience in mental health care. With so much still unclear about how the 10-Year Plan will play out, we’re hoping this session gives us a better sense of the direction of travel and how it will impact services on the ground.
It’ll be interesting to see how much attention is given to mental health and neurodiversity in the national picture, and whether the focus on prevention, community and digital really has the backing (and resource) to stick.
Helping people with a learning disability and autistic people to move from hospital to community
1:45–2:45pm – Breakout session
This session is set to build upon the morning's discussions around the 10-Year Plan, focusing specifically on how national priorities will impact individuals with learning disabilities. The shift from hospital settings to potentially more effective, community-based support has been a long-standing goal, and we anticipate that this session will a valuable look at how that’s starting to take shape across different parts of the system.
What’s especially encouraging here is the focus on real examples and frontline insight - from people with direct experience of services, to leaders from VCSE organisations and NHS trusts who are making meaningful change happen. We’re hoping for practical takeaways on what’s enabling progress, how barriers are being tackled, and what the new Mental Health Bill could unlock moving forward.
This also echoes themes in a recent BBC article exploring a neighbourhood approach to health and social care, where early signs suggest that community-led services can reduce pressure on hospitals while improving outcomes for individuals. It’s this kind of model that shows what’s possible when systems genuinely work together around the person, not the service.
Collaborating on digital transformation to improve patient care and outcomes
3:05–3:50pm – Interactive session
Digital transformation is a bit of a buzzword, but this session seems set to cut through some of the fluff. With frontline experience and leadership both in the room, there’s a chance to hear how services are actually using digital tools to improve care – not just talking about it.
We’re especially interested in how the conversation brings together NHS, VCSE and independent providers, and what lessons are being learned when it comes to embedding digital into real-world delivery.
In Short...
There are some strong themes on this year’s event agenda, and we feel many will offer some real opportunities to go deeper - especially when it comes to the practical impact of the 10-Year Plan and the future of community-based care. It’s a rare chance to step back and hear from those shaping the system from every angle, and we’ll be listening with intent for what’s said between the lines.
