This month has been a real mix of developing new partnerships and progressing work that has been quietly building in the background.
We met with organisers of Chesterfield Pride to explore their ideas for creating a dedicated quiet space at next year’s event, somewhere people can step away from the busyness and recharge. We also discussed supporting them as volunteers on the day, which feels like a meaningful way to contribute.
I spent a week in Venice, my first time in Italy. It was a trip I chose to take because my late husband never fancied visiting, and I wanted to try something different. One of the highlights was seeing Building Bridges by Lorenzo Quinn (pictured, right) – six sculpted hands forming a bridge. A powerful reminder of connection, strength and unity.
As soon as I returned, I headed straight to Liverpool to join the social care rally at the Labour Party Conference. It was energising to hear from so many speakers about the renewed sense of hope within social care. Social Care Minister Alison McGovern shared her reflections since taking up post, offering insight into the direction of travel. A worthwhile event and a very different kind of Sunday compared to my usual quiet planning day.
Last week, I spoke at a member’s Outstanding Panel about what makes an outstanding provider, drawing on CQC data and a report from The King’s Fund. It was a great discussion with thoughtful contributions from across the organisation.
On 1st October, we kicked off our new work in the North East focused on transitions for young people with learning disabilities and autism. It was a positive, productive start, and I’ll be back in Newcastle later this week to continue conversations, this time with grassroots organisations, parents and carers. Do let us know if this work is something you are interested in being involved in.
Victoria, who leads our policy work, has spent much of her time on our involvement in the Fair Pay Agreement through the Care Provider Alliance. Applications for the representative body will open soon, and we’re encouraging members to consider putting themselves forward. Victoria is more than happy to speak with anyone thinking about applying.
Overall, September has been a month of connection, with communities, partners, families and colleagues, and a reminder of how much meaningful change happens through steady, collective effort. I’m looking forward to seeing how these conversations evolve over the coming weeks.