The conference’s theme was ‘perspectives on trauma informed practice’ and included a range of keynote speeches, with the aim of sharing best practice and research to further improve services for Wolverhampton’s children, young people, families and adults with care and support needs.
A record number of people – 271 – attended the conference and heard from Dr Gurnam Singh, an associate professor at the University of Warwick and published author with a particular focus on race, racism and anti-racist practice, who discussed this in the context of trauma.
Meanwhile, Jenni Guthrie, ‘the autistic social worker’, talked about her lived experience of neurodiversity and the ‘trauma of the everyday’, and Dez Holmes, the Strategic Director for Practice and Programmes at the National Children's Bureau and the Director of Research in Practice, helped social workers think critically about trauma informed practice.
Feedback was very positive, with delegates saying the speakers were ‘thought provoking’, ‘interesting and engaging’, while others said the event ‘really kept their focus’ and was ‘related to my work to improve my practice’.
Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, Cabinet Member for Adults and Wellbeing, and Councillor Jacqui Coogan, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, were also in attendance.
Councillor Coogan said: "It was a real honour to be part of the joint social work conference. This was a fantastic opportunity to bring together social workers from across Children’s and Adult Social Care to learn together and to celebrate the brilliant work they do.”
Councillor Jaspal added: "This year’s theme included various speakers, bringing expertise and insights in aspects of trauma informed practice. The day gave social workers additional insight and knowledge that will help support them in their role.
“The conference was also an important opportunity to say a massive thank you to the hundreds of professionals who are dedicated to our city’s children and young people, families and adults with care and support needs.”
