Children’s social care embraces change

Local authority leaders, social workers, and social care professionals from across the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area came together this week at a highly successful conference focused on restorative practice in children's social care. The event, hosted at The Village Hotel celebrated innovation and collaboration while championing the importance of relationship-based approaches to working with children and families.

The highlight of the conference was the keynote address delivered by the UK Chief Social Worker for Children and Families, Isabelle Trowler CBE who praised the council's commitment to improving outcomes for children. She said:

“I really enjoyed joining all the children’s social care professionals at Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council to learn about their approach to restorative practice. I was delighted to share our children’s social care reform programme and to celebrate the great work they’ve been doing to help families and protect children”.

Richard Burton, Portfolio holder for Children, Young People, Education and Skills, commended the tireless efforts all those working to support children in adopting restorative methods to support children and families in challenging circumstances. He shared:

"Our people who work to support our most vulnerable children are so important in our community and their dedication to adopting restorative practices ensures that every child is heard and valued. This conference demonstrates our unwavering commitment to learning, innovation, and delivering excellence for families."

Cathi Hadley, BCP Council’s Corporate Director for Children’s Services added

"Restorative practice is at the heart of meaningful change for children and their families. It empowers professionals to build trust and understanding, which are key to addressing challenges together. Seeing how our social care professionals have embraced this has been truly inspiring and I am proud of what they continue to achieve”.

BCP Council’s Principal Social Worker for Children’s Services, Leanne Morgan who organised the event and has been instrumental in the development of a restorative practice approach, emphasised the importance of continued collaboration and professional development:

"This conference has been a powerful opportunity for us to come together as practitioners, share knowledge, and reflect on how restorative approaches can transform lives. It’s our shared responsibility to ensure that children and families receive the very best support rooted in respect and understanding."

Attendees participated in interactive workshops, case study discussions, and networking sessions, providing a platform to exchange ideas and deepen understanding of restorative practice principles. Feedback from participants highlighted the conference as a thought-provoking and energising experience.

The event reaffirmed the BCP Council’s commitment to empowering those working in children’s social care and advancing restorative practices to create stronger, healthier communities. This follows closely on from the Ofsted good assessment announced earlier in the year.