The conference’s theme this year focused on the transformational power of social work and the difference the profession can make. It included keynote speeches and workshops designed to share best practice, learn from people with lived experience and further improve services for Wolverhampton’s children, young people, families and adults with care and support needs.
One of the keynote speakers, Samantha Billingham, a domestic abuse ambassador and advocate, spoke about her own experiences of domestic abuse, while Rebekah Pierre brought the dual perspective of being a social worker as well as someone with care experience as she talked about language, relationships and the impact social workers can have. Workshops focused on self harm, supporting people who use substances and other important social work issues.
Feedback from social workers attending the event was very positive, including the opportunity to hear from people with lived experience and having the opportunity to reflect and network in person. Social workers described it as ‘the best conference so far’, calling it ‘inspiring and moving’, with ‘brilliant, inspiring speakers’.
Councillor Chris Burden, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: "The conference was a fantastic opportunity to bring together social workers from across Children’s and Adult Social Care to learn and share best practice – and to celebrate the brilliant work they do for our city's most vulnerable individuals and families.”
Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, Cabinet Member for Adults and Wellbeing, added: "This year’s theme reminded us of the difference social work can make and the various speakers gave frontline professionals additional insight and knowledge that will help support them in their role, as well as plenty of opportunities for reflection and learning.”
