Reigniting Direct Payments: The Power of the Right Support
About this Event
Reigniting Direct Payments: The Power of the Right Support
Join Disabled people, Direct Payment support providers, local authorities, policymakers and partner organisations for a national conversation about the future of Direct Payments and independent living.
This disability-led conference will explore what good Direct Payment support looks like in practice, with a focus on rights-based approaches, co-production, accessibility, choice and control.
The day will feature keynote speakers, panel discussions, lived experience perspectives and round-table conversations designed to encourage practical learning, honest discussion and sector-wide collaboration.
Topics will include:
- The future of Direct Payments and independent living
- What good Direct Payment support looks like in practice
- Independent living, choice, control and disability rights
- Co-production and lived experience leadership
- Innovation and examples of good practice in Direct Payment support
- Workforce, Personal Assistant and support provider challenges
- Future priorities for government, local authorities and the sector
Conference Host
Pat Stack - Chair, National Direct Payment Forum
Confirmed speakers
Frances Hasler – Independent Social Care Consultant and Direct Payments Expert
Cheryl Gowar – The King's Fund
Alex Johnston – Direct Payment Support Providers Network
Jade Hamnett – Chairperson, ILG Community
Angie Stewart – Disability North
Further speakers to be announced.
The event aims to create a welcoming and accessible space for learning, networking and influencing the future direction of Direct Payments across the UK.
Accessibility and inclusion are central to the event. Attendees will be able to share their access and dietary requirements during registration.
How to Find Us
Nearest step-free stations:
- Royal Victoria (DLR) – approximately 5 minutes' walk
- Canning Town (Jubilee Line and DLR)
- Custom House (Elizabeth Line and DLR)
- West Silvertown (DLR)
2026 Conference Agenda
Welcome & Setting the Scene
Info: Opening the conference and introducing the purpose of the day.
Session One: How Did We Get Here?
Info: Reflecting on the vision, reality and future of Direct Payments.
Lunch & Networking
Session Two: Where Do We Want to Be?
Info: Exploring what good Direct Payment support looks like through keynote speakers, lived experience and examples of good practice.
Session Three: How Do We Make It Happen?
Info: Interactive round-table discussions to identify priorities and shape the future of Direct Payments.
Refreshment Break & Networking
Emerging Themes & Priorities
Info: Sharing key messages from the discussions and identifying common priorities.
Closing Reflections & Next Steps
Info: Bringing the day together and looking ahead.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
GBP 50.00 to GBP 150.00
