Leaders from health, social care, local government, community organisations and faith groups came together at Blackburn Cathedral earlier this month for a wide-ranging discussion about the future of adult social care.
Hosted by Mike Wedgeworth, Board Member at The Calico Group, The Future of Social Care: The Big Conversation created space for people from across Pennine Lancashire to share ideas, discuss challenges and explore what good care could look like in the years ahead.
The event was organised to help inform the national conversation around adult social care reform and to ensure that the experiences and views of local communities are reflected in future decision-making.
Throughout the morning, speakers offered different perspectives on the opportunities and pressures facing the sector. Topics ranged from demographic change and rising demand for services to the importance of prevention, community support and joined-up working across organisations.
Delegates heard from professionals working across local government, health services, charities and community organisations, highlighting the role each plays in helping people live independently and remain connected to their communities.
Speakers on the day were Mark Warren, Director of Adult Social Services at Blackburn with Darwen Council; Sarah Swanson, Executive Director at The Calico Group; Mohammed Sidat MBE, Chief Executive at IMO Charity; and Dr Asif Garda of East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust.
The programme also explored how social care is experienced by different communities and the importance of ensuring services are accessible, responsive and shaped by the people who use them.
Following the presentations, attendees took part in roundtable discussions, giving them the opportunity to share their experiences and contribute ideas for the future. Conversations focused on what is working well locally, where improvements are needed and how organisations can work together more effectively to support people as their needs change.
Feedback gathered during the event will help inform wider discussions about the future of adult social care, ensuring that insights from Pennine Lancashire are represented as plans for reform continue to develop.
Reflecting on the event, Mike said: “It was encouraging to see so many people from different backgrounds and organisations come together to share their experiences and perspectives.
“The discussions showed just how important social care is to people’s lives, and I hope the voices heard in Blackburn will help shape the future of care and support across the country.”
Bringing together such a broad range of voices reflected a shared commitment to finding solutions through collaboration. The event highlighted the strength of partnership working across the region and the value of listening to the experiences of people who deliver, access and support care services every day.
