We are delighted to invite you to the eighth ‘Raising Aspirations for Young People in Care Conference’. Bringing together the key people responsible for shaping the future of our young people in care, this FREE conference is an opportunity to discuss ways to work together to encourage participation, achievement and progression in education. This year’s conference will be held at Teesside University on Wednesday 22 June (9am – 3pm).
At the conference you can hear from keynote speaker Adele Gladman. Adele is an independent safeguarding consultant and a mum of 15-year-old twins. In December 2021 she also became a carer for her daughter’s best friend, Aaron. Delivered by Adele and supported by Aaron, who is speaking publicly for the first time, Aaron discusses his journey, conversations with his peers in care, and his thoughts on what those in professional and caring positions can do to improve the experiences of children in care. Find out more here
During the conference, you will also have the opportunity to attend two workshops of your choice:
1. Modelling coherence: safer caring, The Kaizen Partnership Ltd
You reflect on children and young people’s raised anxieties following the pandemic and lockdown and explore how to best support them, developing strategies to create conditions of safe uncertainty.
2. Supporting ourselves as professionals, The Kaizen Partnership Ltd
We are in the midst of a mental health emergency affecting young people, their families and the youth professionals who support them. You explore how to spot the signs of lowering resilience and identify support strategies to maintain your own, and your team’s wellbeing and capacity in this challenging environment.
3. Dealing with mental health and suicide, Catherine O’Neil - Teesside University
Suicide rates are almost three times as likely in children in the care system compared to non-care populations (Evans et al, 2017). This workshop supports you to understand suicide, provides you with the opportunity to practice how to talk about suicide with young people and utilise resources that are available around managing suicide risk.
4. Examining best practice within the sector
Working with a local authority, we examine their outstanding work and commitments to care leavers in a practical, financial and supportive setting. Hear how they have developed a positive culture and strong and supportive relationships with young people in care.
Lunch is included and offers a great chance to network with like-minded colleagues.
Please click on the booking link below to direct you to the event page.