Reshaping the Landscape of Childrens Social Work

Welcome to The Hopeful Disruptors first conference event. Whether you're a seasoned or newly-qualified social worker, a senior leader or a policy-maker, or even a student - this event is perfect for anyone passionate about making movement in children's social care.

We not only wish to speak out on the challenges and complexities of the issues that practitioners and families face, but also provide solutions to combat these, and create a ‘system’ that supports practitioners and families to thrive.

The conference will provide the first opportunity for some of the group to present on their area of specialism and the changes they seek. We will be using a case study family to highlight the current challenges practitioners face and detail how these can be tackled.

Please note:

• Arrive by 10am in order to engage in networking.
• Tea and coffees can be purchased from a cafe on the ground floor of the venue.
• We will not be able to allow any latecomers past 11am to enter the conference space.
• Lunch is not provided but can be purchased from shops nearby.
• Tickets are automatically refunded if you attend the event.
• Please ensure you check in upon arrival.

Info: Start the day with meaningful connections. Whether you’re reconnecting with familiar faces or meeting future collaborators, this is your chance to build the relationships that fuel real change.

Info: Your host will set the stage for the day ahead. A day of truth, vision, and movement. The opening videography will capture the heartbeat of the sector and reminds us exactly why we’re here.

Info: An unflinching look at the emotional and psychological toll of life on the frontlines. Nana brings the stories we often hide into the open — raw, necessary, and deeply human.

Info: You can’t pour from an empty cup. Natalie brings the science of the nervous system into sharp focus, exploring how regulation can transform both practitioner wellbeing and client relationships.

Info: A powerful panel unpacking racial and systemic disproportionality. Not as an abstract issue, but a lived reality. Together, they challenge us to move beyond awareness into accountability and action.

Info: What if our interventions centred not just on individuals, but the bonds between them? Alice invites us to reframe practice to support the heartbeat of family: the parent-child connection.

Info: In a system that often separates, how do we protect relationships? Lee shares insights and lived experience, with suggestions of how we can maintain relationships between birth parents and their children in care.

Info: This short but powerful AI generated case study follows the journey of a mother, daughter, and social worker navigating today’s system. Woven throughout the day’s presentations, their story culminates in a powerful reel that reimagines what’s possible: a future where systems support healing, professionals are cared for, and cycles of harm are finally broken.

Info: Your turn to ask, challenge, and build. This Q&A with the Hopeful Disruptors team is a space for collective reflection. A back-and-forth of insight, honesty, and hopeful provocation. Dr Alice, Nana, Curtis, Natalie, Lee, Anna, and Clare will be on stage.

Host or Publisher Leaders in Care