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X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://socialcareskills.co.uk
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Social Care Skills
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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260728T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260728T160000
DTSTAMP:20260610T123336Z
CREATED:20260610T123334Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260610T123336Z
UID:5306-1785232800-1785254400@socialcareskills.co.uk
SUMMARY:Children's Homes Regulations
DESCRIPTION:The Children’s Homes Regulations 2015 and Quality Standards provide the foundation for the operation\, leadership\, and delivery of care within children’s homes in England. Understanding these requirements is essential for ensuring compliance\, promoting positive outcomes\, and creating environments where children can thrive. \n\n\n\n📅 Date & Time: 28th July\, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM📍 Live Online via Teams📢 Early Bird Price: £104 (VAT included) – Register 2+ weeks before🎟️ Standard Price: £134 (VAT included) – Group Discount available for groups of 5+ \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE\n\n\n\n\nThis practical and comprehensive course explores the key requirements of the Children’s Homes Regulations and the associated Quality Standards\, helping participants understand not only what the regulations require\, but how they should be applied in day-to-day practice. The seminar focuses on translating regulatory expectations into meaningful actions that improve the experiences and outcomes of children and young people while supporting services to maintain compliance and prepare for inspection. \n\n\n\nCourse Content\n\n\n\nThis course provides a detailed overview of the Children’s Homes Regulations 2015 and the Quality Standards that underpin practice within residential childcare settings. Participants will explore the purpose of the regulations\, the principles that inform them\, and the expectations placed upon providers\, managers\, and staff. The session examines how the regulations support the delivery of safe\, effective\, and child-centred care while promoting positive outcomes for children and young people. \n\n\n\nThe seminar explores each of the Quality Standards and their practical application within children’s homes. Participants will consider how the regulations influence leadership\, safeguarding\, care planning\, education\, health\, participation\, positive relationships\, workforce development\, and preparation for adulthood. Particular attention will be given to understanding the difference between compliance-focused approaches and practice that genuinely reflects the spirit and intent of the regulations. \n\n\n\nThe course also examines the roles and responsibilities of providers\, Responsible Individuals\, Registered Managers\, and staff in maintaining compliance and driving service improvement. Participants will explore key regulatory requirements relating to admissions\, risk management\, notifications\, record keeping\, staffing arrangements\, supervision\, quality assurance\, and monitoring systems. Practical examples will be used to help participants understand how regulatory expectations apply in real-life situations. \n\n\n\nThroughout the session\, participants will consider common compliance challenges\, lessons from inspections\, and strategies for evidencing good practice. The course encourages professionals to view regulations as a framework for delivering high-quality care rather than simply a set of compliance requirements. \n\n\n\nLearning Outcomes\n\n\n\nBy the end of this course\, participants will be able to: \n\n\n\n\nUnderstand the purpose\, structure\, and principles of the Children’s Homes Regulations 2015 and Quality Standards.\n\n\n\nExplain the requirements of the Quality Standards and their application within residential childcare practice.\n\n\n\nIdentify the responsibilities of providers\, Responsible Individuals\, Registered Managers\, and staff in maintaining compliance.\n\n\n\nApply regulatory requirements to admissions\, safeguarding\, care planning\, staffing\, and service delivery.\n\n\n\nRecognise common compliance challenges and implement strategies to address them.\n\n\n\nUnderstand how to evidence compliance and good practice during monitoring and inspection activities.\n\n\n\nUtilise the regulations to support quality improvement and positive outcomes for children and young people.\n\n\n\nDevelop greater confidence in interpreting and applying regulatory expectations within their own service.\n\n\n\n\nIntended Audience\n\n\n\nThis course is designed for professionals working within children’s homes or preparing to work within residential childcare settings. It will be particularly relevant for Registered Managers\, Responsible Individuals\, Deputy Managers\, Team Leaders\, Residential Childcare Practitioners\, Senior Residential Support Workers\, Operational Managers\, Quality Assurance Leads\, Directors\, and other professionals with responsibilities for safeguarding\, compliance\, leadership\, or service development. The course is suitable for both experienced professionals seeking to refresh their regulatory knowledge and those newer to residential childcare who require a comprehensive understanding of the regulatory framework. \n\n\n\nCourse Facilitator\n\n\n\nMiguel Valerio is a Social Worker\, trainer\, consultant\, and regulatory specialist with more than 20 years of professional experience across children’s social care\, education\, leadership\, and service development. He has extensive experience within residential childcare and has held senior leadership positions including Responsible Individual and Operational Service Manager\, overseeing Children’s Homes and Supported Accommodation services. \n\n\n\nThroughout his career\, Miguel has been responsible for supporting services through registration\, inspection\, quality assurance\, safeguarding\, workforce development\, and regulatory compliance. He has successfully led and supported children’s homes through periods of growth\, service improvement\, and inspection activity\, while also providing consultancy\, audits\, and training to providers across the sector. \n\n\n\nThrough Social Care Skills\, Miguel delivers specialist training designed to help professionals understand regulations in a practical and meaningful way. His sessions combine regulatory knowledge\, operational experience\, and reflective discussion\, enabling participants to strengthen compliance while maintaining a clear focus on the needs and outcomes of children and young people. \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE
URL:https://socialcareskills.co.uk/event/childrens-homes-regulations-2/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260731T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260731T130000
DTSTAMP:20260702T084131Z
CREATED:20260702T084128Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260702T084131Z
UID:5518-1785492000-1785502800@socialcareskills.co.uk
SUMMARY:Ofsted Inspection Readiness
DESCRIPTION:Is your service prepared for its next Ofsted inspection? This focused and highly practical session is designed to give leaders and practitioners the clarity\, tools\, and confidence they need to approach inspection with assurance. Led by Rachel Holden\, former Senior HMI at Ofsted\, the course offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from someone who has led inspections across a range of children’s services. With a unique insider’s perspective\, Rachel will share what inspectors really look for\, and how your service can evidence high-quality practice and compliance. \n\n\n\n📅 Date & Time: 31st July\, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM📍 Live Online via Teams📢 Early Bird Price: £54 (VAT included) – Register 2+ weeks before🎟️ Standard Price: £74 (VAT included) – Group Discount available for groups of 5+ \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE\n\n\n\n\nWhy It MattersOfsted inspections can be a source of pressure. but they can also be an opportunity to showcase your service at its best. This session supports providers to move from anxiety to action\, with step-by-step guidance on preparing for inspection day\, aligning with the SCCIF(s)\, and demonstrating impact in every aspect of service delivery. \n\n\n\nCourse Highlights– Key themes and expectations in current Ofsted inspections– What “good” looks like: evidence\, outcomes\, and the voice of the child– Common inspection pitfalls and how to avoid them– How to prepare staff\, documents\, and the environment– Practical strategies for managers and frontline teams to work together on readiness \n\n\n\nMeet Your Trainer: Rachel Holden \n\n\n\nRachel is a highly experienced social care professional with over 25 years in the sector\, spanning frontline practice\, senior leadership\, and national regulation. Most recently\, she led the rollout of Ofsted’s national registration and inspection framework for Supported Accommodation\, playing a pivotal role in shaping this new regulatory landscape. \n\n\n\nAs a former Senior Her Majesty’s Inspector (HMI) at Ofsted\, Rachel was responsible for quality assuring ILACS and SEND inspections and overseeing regulatory practice across children’s services. Her earlier roles include Regulatory Manager\, HMI for Social Care\, and senior operational leadership in early help\, family support\, and services for missing children. \n\n\n\nRachel’s training is grounded in deep sector knowledge\, a passion for improving outcomes for children and young people\, and a commitment to helping providers deliver high-quality\, accountable care. \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE
URL:https://socialcareskills.co.uk/event/ofsted-inspection-readiness-3/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260806T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260806T130000
DTSTAMP:20260630T091934Z
CREATED:20260630T091930Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260630T091934Z
UID:5457-1786010400-1786021200@socialcareskills.co.uk
SUMMARY:Missing from Care: Prevention\, Response & Safe Return
DESCRIPTION:Overview\n\n\n\nChildren and young people going missing from care remains one of the most significant safeguarding challenges within children’s social care. Missing episodes are often indicators of vulnerability\, exploitation\, trauma\, unmet needs\, or difficulties within a young person’s relationships and environment. Effective responses require more than simply locating a child; they require proactive prevention\, coordinated safeguarding action\, and meaningful support that addresses the underlying reasons why the young person went missing. \n\n\n\n📅 Date & Time: 6th August\, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM📍 Live Online via Teams📢 Early Bird Price: £54 (VAT included) – Register 2+ weeks before🎟️ Standard Price: £74 (VAT included) – Group Discount available for groups of 5+ \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE\n\n\n\n\nThis practical and safeguarding-focused seminar provides professionals with a clear framework for preventing missing incidents\, responding effectively when they occur\, and supporting young people upon their return. The course explores current safeguarding expectations\, multi-agency responsibilities\, and practical approaches that reduce risk and promote positive outcomes. Particular attention is given to the effective use of the Philomena Protocol as a preventative and collaborative tool that strengthens information sharing and police responses. \n\n\n\nCourse Content\n\n\n\nThis course explores the complex reasons why children and young people go missing from care and examines the relationship between missing episodes\, trauma\, exploitation\, peer influence\, family relationships\, emotional wellbeing\, and unmet needs. Participants will develop a deeper understanding of missing behaviour as a safeguarding concern rather than solely a behavioural issue\, helping them identify underlying vulnerabilities and respond more effectively. \n\n\n\nThe seminar examines preventative approaches that reduce the likelihood of missing incidents occurring. Participants will explore the role of relationship-based practice\, risk assessment\, contextual safeguarding\, safety planning\, professional curiosity\, and direct work with children and young people. The session highlights the importance of understanding individual triggers\, patterns\, and risks while supporting young people to develop safer coping strategies and stronger support networks. \n\n\n\nParticipants will also explore the practical application of the Philomena Protocol\, including its purpose\, implementation\, and benefits. The course examines how the protocol can be used proactively to ensure key information is available to police and partner agencies\, enabling faster and more effective responses when children go missing. Consideration will also be given to information sharing\, recording\, and partnership working between providers\, local authorities\, police\, and other safeguarding agencies. \n\n\n\nThe course further examines how professionals should respond when a child goes missing\, including reporting procedures\, escalation processes\, recording requirements\, and multi-agency coordination. Attention is also given to return home processes\, debrief conversations\, reflection\, and learning following missing episodes. Participants will explore how meaningful return interviews and reflective discussions can help identify ongoing risks\, strengthen relationships\, and reduce the likelihood of future incidents. \n\n\n\nLearning Outcomes\n\n\n\nBy the end of this course\, participants will be able to: \n\n\n\n\nUnderstand the factors that contribute to children and young people going missing from care.\n\n\n\nRecognise the links between missing episodes\, trauma\, exploitation\, peer influence\, and vulnerability.\n\n\n\nApply preventative approaches that reduce the likelihood of missing incidents occurring.\n\n\n\nUtilise the Philomena Protocol effectively to strengthen information sharing and police responses.\n\n\n\nRespond to missing incidents in line with safeguarding procedures\, regulatory requirements\, and local protocols.\n\n\n\nUnderstand the importance of multi-agency working in managing missing episodes and reducing risk.\n\n\n\nConduct meaningful return conversations and utilise learning to reduce future incidents.\n\n\n\nStrengthen safeguarding practice and improve outcomes for children and young people who go missing from care.\n\n\n\n\nIntended Audience\n\n\n\nThis course is designed for professionals responsible for safeguarding\, risk management\, and supporting children and young people who may go missing from care. It will be particularly relevant for Residential Childcare Practitioners\, Supported Accommodation Staff\, Foster Carers\, Social Workers\, Supervising Social Workers\, Team Leaders\, Deputy Managers\, Registered Managers\, Responsible Individuals\, Nominated Individuals\, Designated Safeguarding Leads\, Family Support Workers\, and other professionals working with children and young people who may be vulnerable to missing episodes\, exploitation\, or associated safeguarding risks. \n\n\n\nCourse Facilitator\n\n\n\nPravina Patel is a senior leader within children’s social care with more than 20 years of experience across children’s residential care\, supported accommodation\, safeguarding leadership\, and education services. She has extensive expertise in regulatory compliance\, service development\, Ofsted registration\, and the leadership of multi-site services supporting children and young people with complex needs. \n\n\n\nPravina has significant experience in safeguarding\, contextual safeguarding\, trauma-informed practice\, workforce development\, quality assurance\, and governance. She currently works as a Registered Service Manager and Responsible Individual\, overseeing multiple services for young people while leading safeguarding systems\, operational development\, and continuous improvement initiatives. Her practical experience of managing safeguarding concerns\, responding to missing incidents\, working alongside police and local authorities\, and supporting services through regulatory scrutiny provides participants with valuable insight into effective missing-from-care practice. \n\n\n\nThrough her training and leadership work\, Pravina supports professionals to strengthen safeguarding cultures\, improve decision-making\, and develop practical approaches that promote the safety\, wellbeing\, and positive outcomes of children and young people. \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE
URL:https://socialcareskills.co.uk/event/missing-from-care-prevention-response-safe-return-2/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260811T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260811T130000
DTSTAMP:20260630T092700Z
CREATED:20260630T092657Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260630T092700Z
UID:5471-1786442400-1786453200@socialcareskills.co.uk
SUMMARY:Notifications of Serious Events (Ofsted)
DESCRIPTION:Overview\n\n\n\nThe notification of serious events is a critical component of safeguarding\, accountability\, and regulatory compliance within children’s social care. Providers have a legal responsibility to notify Ofsted of certain incidents and events that affect the welfare\, protection\, or safety of children and young people. However\, uncertainty often exists regarding what constitutes a notifiable event\, when notifications should be submitted\, and how organisations can use serious incidents as opportunities for reflection\, learning\, and service improvement. \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n📅 Date & Time: 11th August\, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM📍 Live Online via Teams📢 Early Bird Price: £54 (VAT included) – Register 2+ weeks before🎟️ Standard Price: £74 (VAT included) – Group Discount available for groups of 5+ \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE\n\n\n\n\nThis practical and regulatory-focused seminar explores the requirements surrounding notifications to Ofsted across children’s homes\, supported accommodation\, and fostering services. Participants will develop confidence in identifying notifiable incidents\, completing accurate and timely notifications\, and embedding effective reporting systems that support safeguarding\, organisational learning\, and regulatory compliance. The course encourages professionals to view notifications not simply as a compliance task\, but as an important component of effective safeguarding and quality assurance practice. \n\n\n\nCourse Content\n\n\n\nThis course provides a comprehensive overview of notification requirements within children’s social care and explores the purpose of serious event notifications within the wider safeguarding and regulatory framework. Participants will examine why notifications are required\, how they support transparency and accountability\, and the role they play in enabling regulators and safeguarding partners to understand significant incidents affecting children and young people. \n\n\n\nThe seminar explores what constitutes a notifiable event and examines the range of incidents that may require notification to Ofsted and other relevant agencies. Participants will consider common areas of uncertainty\, including safeguarding incidents\, serious injuries\, allegations\, police involvement\, missing episodes\, and other significant events. The session will explore practical approaches to making informed decisions when assessing whether an incident meets notification thresholds and how professional judgement should be applied in complex situations. \n\n\n\nThe course also examines how to complete notifications that are accurate\, proportionate\, and informative. Participants will explore the information that should be included\, common errors and omissions\, and approaches to ensuring notifications clearly communicate the circumstances\, actions taken\, safeguarding considerations\, and immediate responses. Practical examples and case discussions will be used throughout the session to strengthen understanding and build confidence in completing notifications effectively. \n\n\n\nThe seminar further considers how notifications should be integrated within wider safeguarding\, governance\, and quality assurance systems. Participants will explore how incidents can be reviewed\, analysed\, and used as opportunities for organisational learning\, workforce development\, service improvement\, and risk management. The course encourages services to develop a culture where notifications contribute to reflective practice and continuous improvement rather than being viewed solely as a regulatory requirement. \n\n\n\nLearning Outcomes\n\n\n\nBy the end of this course\, participants will be able to: \n\n\n\n\nUnderstand the purpose and importance of notifying serious events to Ofsted and other relevant agencies.\n\n\n\nIdentify incidents and events that meet the threshold for notification across children’s homes\, supported accommodation\, and fostering services.\n\n\n\nApply professional judgement when assessing whether an incident requires notification.\n\n\n\nComplete clear\, accurate\, and timely notifications that meet regulatory expectations.\n\n\n\nRecognise common errors and omissions and implement strategies to improve reporting quality.\n\n\n\nUnderstand how notifications contribute to safeguarding\, accountability\, and organisational transparency.\n\n\n\nIntegrate notification processes within wider quality assurance\, governance\, and risk management systems.\n\n\n\nUtilise serious incidents as opportunities for reflection\, organisational learning\, and service improvement.\n\n\n\n\nIntended Audience\n\n\n\nThis course is designed for professionals responsible for safeguarding\, compliance\, incident management\, and regulatory oversight within children’s social care services. It will be particularly relevant for Registered Managers\, Responsible Individuals\, Nominated Individuals\, Deputy Managers\, Team Leaders\, Supervising Social Workers\, Fostering Managers\, Designated Safeguarding Leads\, Operational Managers\, Quality Assurance Leads\, Directors\, and other professionals involved in reporting\, reviewing\, or overseeing serious incidents. The course is suitable for both experienced leaders seeking to strengthen organisational systems and those newer to regulatory responsibilities who wish to develop confidence in notification processes. \n\n\n\nCourse Facilitator\n\n\n\nMiguel Valerio is a Social Worker\, trainer\, consultant\, and regulatory specialist with more than 20 years of professional experience across children’s social care\, education\, leadership\, and service development. His career has included roles in research and higher education\, alongside extensive operational and strategic leadership within Children’s Homes and Supported Accommodation services. \n\n\n\nMiguel has worked as both a Responsible Individual for Children’s Homes and a Registered Service Manager for Supported Accommodation\, where he held responsibility for safeguarding\, regulatory compliance\, incident management\, quality assurance\, workforce development\, and service governance. Throughout his career\, he has overseen the management and reporting of serious incidents\, supported services through registration and inspection processes\, and developed systems that promote accountability\, learning\, and continuous improvement. \n\n\n\nThrough Social Care Skills\, Miguel provides training\, consultancy\, audits\, and regulatory support to providers across the sector. His training combines practical leadership experience\, regulatory expertise\, and reflective approaches to help professionals develop confidence in managing complex situations while maintaining compliance and a strong safeguarding culture. \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE
URL:https://socialcareskills.co.uk/event/notifications-of-serious-events-ofsted/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260813T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260813T130000
DTSTAMP:20260630T092946Z
CREATED:20260630T092944Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260630T092946Z
UID:5478-1786615200-1786626000@socialcareskills.co.uk
SUMMARY:Managing Staff Performance and Difficult Employment Issues
DESCRIPTION:Overview\n\n\n\nManaging staff performance and addressing employment issues is a critical leadership responsibility within social care. Whether dealing with performance concerns\, misconduct\, grievances\, workplace conflict\, or complaints\, managers must balance fairness\, accountability\, legal compliance\, and organisational values while maintaining positive working relationships and service quality. \n\n\n\n📅 Date & Time: 13th August\, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM📍 Live Online via Teams📢 Early Bird Price: £54 (VAT included) – Register 2+ weeks before🎟️ Standard Price: £74 (VAT included) – Group Discount available for groups of 5+ \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE\n\n\n\n\nThis practical and informative seminar equips managers and senior staff with the knowledge and confidence needed to navigate difficult employment situations effectively. Participants will explore disciplinary and grievance procedures\, performance management approaches\, workplace investigations\, and employment law principles\, developing practical skills that support fair\, consistent\, and defensible decision-making. The course focuses on helping leaders create workplace cultures that promote accountability\, professionalism\, wellbeing\, and continuous improvement. \n\n\n\nCourse Content\n\n\n\nThis course explores the role of managers and leaders in addressing workplace concerns and supporting staff performance within social care settings. Participants will examine the purpose and principles of disciplinary and grievance procedures and consider how effective people management contributes to safer services\, stronger teams\, and better outcomes for those receiving care and support. \n\n\n\nThe seminar examines the processes involved in responding to performance concerns\, misconduct allegations\, grievances\, workplace disputes\, and complaints. Participants will explore how concerns can be identified\, investigated\, documented\, and resolved through fair and proportionate approaches that balance organisational responsibilities with the rights and wellbeing of employees. Particular attention will be given to maintaining professionalism\, objectivity\, and consistency throughout the process. \n\n\n\nThe course also explores the importance of investigations\, evidence gathering\, record keeping\, and decision-making. Participants will consider how to conduct fair investigations\, evaluate evidence\, manage difficult conversations\, and ensure that decisions are supported by appropriate documentation and rationale. Common mistakes and procedural risks will be explored\, helping managers understand how poor practice can undermine outcomes and expose organisations to legal or regulatory challenges. \n\n\n\nThroughout the session\, participants will examine how leadership\, communication\, supervision\, and organisational culture contribute to the prevention and management of employment issues. Practical examples and case discussions will help attendees develop confidence in applying fair and effective approaches to workforce management. \n\n\n\nLearning Outcomes\n\n\n\nBy the end of this course\, participants will be able to: \n\n\n\n\nUnderstand the purpose and principles of disciplinary and grievance procedures.\n\n\n\nApply fair\, lawful\, and proportionate approaches to managing staff concerns and employment issues.\n\n\n\nUnderstand the role of investigations\, evidence gathering\, and documentation within employment processes.\n\n\n\nManage performance concerns\, misconduct issues\, complaints\, and workplace conflict with greater confidence.\n\n\n\nConduct difficult conversations in a professional\, respectful\, and constructive manner.\n\n\n\nRecognise common procedural pitfalls and implement strategies to reduce organisational risk.\n\n\n\nUnderstand the relationship between workforce management\, safeguarding\, and service quality.\n\n\n\nStrengthen leadership approaches that promote accountability\, transparency\, and positive workplace cultures.\n\n\n\n\nIntended Audience\n\n\n\nThis course is designed for managers\, leaders\, and professionals responsible for supervising staff and addressing workforce issues within social care settings. It will be particularly relevant for Registered Managers\, Responsible Individuals\, Nominated Individuals\, Deputy Managers\, Team Leaders\, Supervising Social Workers\, Operational Managers\, Directors\, Human Resources Professionals\, Quality Assurance Leads\, and other professionals involved in staff management\, performance oversight\, investigations\, or organisational leadership. The course is suitable for both experienced managers seeking to strengthen their employment practice and those newer to leadership responsibilities. \n\n\n\nCourse Facilitator\n\n\n\nStuart Falconer brings more than 20 years of experience across both the public and private sectors\, supporting organisations with a wide range of Human Resources and workforce management challenges. His expertise spans all areas of generalist HR practice\, including disciplinary and grievance procedures\, performance management\, absence management\, recruitment\, redundancy\, organisational change\, and compliance with employment legislation. \n\n\n\nThroughout his career\, Stuart has supported organisations across England to navigate complex employment issues with confidence\, fairness\, and professionalism. He is particularly experienced in helping managers address difficult workplace situations\, conduct investigations\, manage employee relations matters\, and implement effective workforce strategies. His practical\, no-nonsense approach enables participants to understand both the legal framework and the real-world application of employment processes. \n\n\n\nThrough his consultancy\, coaching\, and training work\, Stuart helps organisations strengthen management capability\, improve workforce practices\, and create workplace cultures that balance accountability\, compliance\, and employee wellbeing. His sessions are highly practical and focused on providing managers with tools and confidence that can be immediately applied within their own services. \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE
URL:https://socialcareskills.co.uk/event/managing-staff-performance-and-difficult-employment-issues/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260818T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260818T130000
DTSTAMP:20260630T093204Z
CREATED:20260630T093201Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260630T093204Z
UID:5483-1787047200-1787058000@socialcareskills.co.uk
SUMMARY:Understanding the CQC Single Assessment Framework: What Providers Need to Know
DESCRIPTION:Overview\n\n\n\nThe Care Quality Commission’s Single Assessment Framework represents a significant development in how health and social care services are assessed\, monitored\, and regulated. For providers\, managers\, and leaders\, understanding the framework is essential not only for demonstrating compliance but also for embedding quality\, improving outcomes\, and creating services that consistently meet the needs of the people they support. \n\n\n\n📅 Date & Time: 18th August\, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM📍 Live Online via Teams📢 Early Bird Price: £54 (VAT included) – Register 2+ weeks before🎟️ Standard Price: £74 (VAT included) – Group Discount available for groups of 5+ \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE\n\n\n\n\nThis practical and informative seminar provides a comprehensive introduction to the CQC Single Assessment Framework and its implications for adult social care providers. Participants will explore the structure of the framework\, understand how evidence is gathered and assessed\, and develop confidence in demonstrating good practice against the Quality Statements and evidence categories. The course focuses on translating regulatory expectations into practical actions that support service improvement\, effective governance\, and positive outcomes for people using services. \n\n\n\nCourse Content\n\n\n\nThis course explores the purpose\, structure\, and principles of the CQC Single Assessment Framework and examines how it has changed the way services are assessed. Participants will develop a clear understanding of the framework’s Quality Statements\, evidence categories\, and assessment processes\, gaining insight into how the CQC evaluates whether services are safe\, effective\, caring\, responsive\, and well-led. \n\n\n\nThe seminar examines the different sources of evidence used by the CQC and how providers can demonstrate compliance through day-to-day practice\, governance systems\, quality assurance activities\, workforce development\, safeguarding arrangements\, and feedback from people using services. Participants will explore how evidence is gathered from multiple sources and how individual pieces of evidence contribute to overall assessment outcomes. \n\n\n\nThe course also considers the practical implications of the framework for leaders\, managers\, and providers. Participants will explore how the framework should influence service monitoring\, quality assurance processes\, audits\, policies\, workforce development\, supervision\, and continuous improvement activities. The session examines common challenges experienced by providers and explores practical strategies for strengthening evidence\, improving organisational readiness\, and responding effectively to regulatory scrutiny. \n\n\n\nThroughout the seminar\, participants will engage with practical examples\, assessment scenarios\, and reflective discussions that support a deeper understanding of how the framework operates in practice. The course encourages participants to move beyond inspection preparation and instead use the framework as a tool for embedding quality\, strengthening governance\, and driving sustainable improvement across their service. \n\n\n\nLearning Outcomes\n\n\n\nBy the end of this course\, participants will be able to: \n\n\n\n\nUnderstand the purpose\, structure\, and principles of the CQC Single Assessment Framework.\n\n\n\nExplain the role of Quality Statements and evidence categories within the assessment process.\n\n\n\nIdentify the different sources of evidence used by the CQC when assessing services.\n\n\n\nEvaluate their own service’s readiness against the requirements of the framework.\n\n\n\nStrengthen governance\, quality assurance\, and evidence collection processes.\n\n\n\nUnderstand how feedback\, outcomes\, leadership\, and organisational culture contribute to assessment outcomes.\n\n\n\nDevelop practical strategies for evidencing good practice and continuous improvement.\n\n\n\nIncrease confidence in preparing for and responding to CQC assessments.\n\n\n\n\nIntended Audience\n\n\n\nThis course is designed for professionals working within CQC-regulated services who have responsibilities for quality\, compliance\, governance\, leadership\, or service improvement. It will be particularly relevant for Registered Managers\, Nominated Individuals\, Directors\, Service Managers\, Deputy Managers\, Quality Assurance Leads\, Compliance Officers\, Clinical Leads\, Operations Managers\, Senior Practitioners\, and other professionals responsible for preparing services for assessment or supporting organisational quality improvement. The course is suitable for both experienced leaders seeking to strengthen their understanding of the framework and those newer to regulatory responsibilities. \n\n\n\nCourse Facilitator\n\n\n\nTembi Hlalakuhle is a Registered General Nurse and founder and director of Compassionate4U Limited\, a quality and compliance consultancy specialising in adult social care. With more than 25 years of experience across regulated care services\, Tembi has extensive expertise in governance\, quality assurance\, compliance\, safeguarding\, workforce development\, and service improvement. \n\n\n\nThroughout her career\, Tembi has supported providers across a range of adult social care settings to strengthen regulatory compliance\, prepare for inspection\, improve quality systems\, and achieve positive outcomes for people using services. Her work includes supporting organisations with CQC readiness\, quality monitoring\, governance frameworks\, policy development\, workforce development\, and continuous improvement initiatives. \n\n\n\nTembi is passionate about helping providers move beyond compliance and develop services that consistently deliver safe\, effective\, caring\, responsive\, and well-led care. Her training combines practical experience\, regulatory knowledge\, and real-world examples\, enabling participants to develop confidence in understanding regulatory expectations and applying them within their own services. \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE
URL:https://socialcareskills.co.uk/event/understanding-the-cqc-single-assessment-framework-what-providers-need-to-know/
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260820T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260820T130000
DTSTAMP:20260723T090120Z
CREATED:20260630T093430Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260723T090120Z
UID:5488-1787220000-1787230800@socialcareskills.co.uk
SUMMARY:Supporting Autistic and Neurodiverse Children and Young People
DESCRIPTION:Overview\n\n\n\nAutistic and neurodiverse children and young people bring unique strengths\, perspectives\, and ways of experiencing the world. However\, they may also encounter barriers within education\, social care\, healthcare\, and wider society that can impact their wellbeing\, relationships\, opportunities\, and outcomes. Professionals play a vital role in creating environments that recognise and respond to individual needs while promoting inclusion\, participation\, and positive development. \n\n\n\n📅 Date & Time: 20th August\, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM📍 Live Online via Teams📢 Early Bird Price: £54 (VAT included) – Register 2+ weeks before🎟️ Standard Price: £74 (VAT included) – Group Discount available for groups of 5+ \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE\n\n\n\n\nThis practical and strengths-based seminar explores how professionals can better understand and support autistic and neurodiverse children and young people. Participants will develop a deeper understanding of neurodiversity\, explore common challenges experienced by autistic children and young people\, and learn practical approaches that promote communication\, emotional wellbeing\, engagement\, and positive outcomes. The course focuses on moving beyond deficit-based models and developing inclusive practices that recognise individual strengths\, preferences\, and needs. \n\n\n\nCourse Content\n\n\n\nThis course explores the principles of neurodiversity and examines how autistic and neurodiverse children and young people may experience the world differently. Participants will develop a greater understanding of autism and other forms of neurodiversity\, considering how differences in communication\, sensory processing\, emotional regulation\, social interaction\, executive functioning\, and information processing can influence everyday experiences. \n\n\n\nThe seminar examines how environments\, relationships\, routines\, expectations\, and communication styles can either support or create barriers for autistic and neurodiverse children and young people. Participants will explore practical strategies for creating more inclusive and accessible environments that promote safety\, participation\, independence\, and wellbeing. Particular attention will be given to understanding sensory needs\, recognising signs of distress\, and responding in ways that reduce anxiety and support regulation. \n\n\n\nThe course also explores relationship-based approaches that strengthen engagement and trust. Participants will examine communication strategies\, personalised support approaches\, and methods for adapting practice to meet individual needs. The session encourages professionals to recognise strengths and interests while supporting children and young people to develop confidence\, resilience\, self-advocacy\, and positive relationships. \n\n\n\nThroughout the seminar\, participants will consider how neurodiversity intersects with safeguarding\, trauma\, education\, mental health\, and social care. Practical examples and case discussions will help attendees apply learning to real-world situations and develop approaches that improve outcomes and experiences for autistic and neurodiverse children and young people. \n\n\n\nLearning Outcomes\n\n\n\nBy the end of this course\, participants will be able to: \n\n\n\n\nUnderstand the principles of neurodiversity and strengths-based practice.\n\n\n\nDevelop greater awareness of autism and other forms of neurodiversity.\n\n\n\nRecognise how communication\, sensory processing\, and emotional regulation can influence behaviour and engagement.\n\n\n\nIdentify barriers that autistic and neurodiverse children and young people may experience.\n\n\n\nApply practical strategies to create more inclusive and supportive environments.\n\n\n\nUtilise communication approaches that strengthen engagement and participation.\n\n\n\nSupport emotional wellbeing\, self-esteem\, and positive outcomes through personalised interventions.\n\n\n\nReflect on their own practice and identify opportunities to improve support for autistic and neurodiverse children and young people.\n\n\n\n\nIntended Audience\n\n\n\nThis course is designed for professionals working with autistic and neurodiverse children and young people across children’s social care\, education\, fostering\, supported accommodation\, residential childcare\, youth services\, and related sectors. It will be particularly relevant for Residential Childcare Practitioners\, Foster Carers\, Social Workers\, Supervising Social Workers\, Teachers\, Teaching Assistants\, Family Support Workers\, Youth Workers\, Team Leaders\, Deputy Managers\, Registered Managers\, and other professionals seeking to strengthen their understanding of neurodiversity and inclusive practice. \n\n\n\nCourse Facilitator\n\n\n\nConor Byrne is an experienced practitioner\, trainer\, and advocate for neurodiversity who specialises in supporting autistic and neurodiverse children and young people. Drawing upon both professional expertise and lived experience\, Conor helps organisations and practitioners develop a deeper understanding of neurodiversity and create environments where children and young people can thrive. \n\n\n\nHis work focuses on promoting strengths-based\, person-centred approaches that recognise individuality\, reduce barriers\, and improve participation and wellbeing. Conor has extensive experience supporting professionals across social care\, education\, and support services to develop practical strategies that enhance communication\, emotional wellbeing\, inclusion\, and positive outcomes. \n\n\n\nThrough his engaging and insightful training style\, Conor combines evidence-informed practice\, practical examples\, and real-world experience to help participants build confidence in supporting autistic and neurodiverse children and young people effectively and compassionately. \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE
URL:https://socialcareskills.co.uk/event/supporting-autistic-and-neurodiverse-children-and-young-people/
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260825T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260825T130000
DTSTAMP:20260630T093719Z
CREATED:20260630T093716Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260630T093719Z
UID:5493-1787652000-1787662800@socialcareskills.co.uk
SUMMARY:Balancing Safety\, Rights and Freedom in Children's Social Care
DESCRIPTION:Overview\n\n\n\nProfessionals working with children and young people are often required to make difficult decisions that balance safety\, wellbeing\, individual rights\, and personal freedom. In some circumstances\, restrictions may be necessary to protect a child or young person from harm. However\, when those restrictions amount to a deprivation of liberty\, practitioners and organisations must ensure that their actions are lawful\, proportionate\, necessary\, and subject to appropriate oversight. \n\n\n\n📅 Date & Time: 25th August\, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM📍 Live Online via Teams📢 Early Bird Price: £54 (VAT included) – Register 2+ weeks before🎟️ Standard Price: £74 (VAT included) – Group Discount available for groups of 5+ \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE\n\n\n\n\nThis practical and thought-provoking seminar explores the legal\, ethical\, and practice considerations associated with Deprivation of Liberty (DoL) within children’s social care. Participants will develop a clear understanding of the legal framework\, the circumstances in which deprivation of liberty may arise\, and the responsibilities placed upon professionals and organisations. The course focuses on promoting rights-based practice that protects children and young people while supporting their development\, independence\, and long-term wellbeing. \n\n\n\nCourse Content\n\n\n\nThis course explores the concept of deprivation of liberty and examines how restrictions on a child’s freedom can arise within care and support arrangements. Participants will develop an understanding of the legal definitions\, principles\, and thresholds that determine when restrictions move beyond ordinary care and supervision and become a deprivation of liberty requiring legal authorisation. \n\n\n\nThe seminar examines the legal and practice frameworks that govern deprivation of liberty arrangements and explores how professionals can ensure that restrictions are necessary\, proportionate\, and responsive to identified risks. Participants will consider how safeguarding responsibilities\, risk management\, and human rights principles interact when making decisions about supervision\, movement\, contact\, access to the community\, and other aspects of daily life. \n\n\n\nParticular attention will be given to care planning and reviewing arrangements that involve restrictions on liberty. Participants will explore how to evidence necessity and proportionality\, identify less restrictive alternatives\, and develop plans that support progress\, independence\, and positive outcomes. The course encourages practitioners to move beyond risk avoidance and instead focus on balancing protection with opportunities for growth\, participation\, and development. \n\n\n\nThe session also examines the roles and responsibilities of care providers\, local authorities\, social workers\, managers\, and other professionals involved in deprivation of liberty arrangements. Through practical examples\, case studies\, and reflective discussion\, participants will explore complex real-world situations and develop confidence in applying legal principles within everyday practice. \n\n\n\nLearning Outcomes\n\n\n\nBy the end of this course\, participants will be able to: \n\n\n\n\nUnderstand the legal definition and principles of deprivation of liberty.\n\n\n\nRecognise situations where restrictions on liberty may require legal authorisation.\n\n\n\nApply principles of necessity\, proportionality\, and least restrictive practice when supporting children and young people.\n\n\n\nUnderstand the legal responsibilities of providers\, local authorities\, and other professionals involved in deprivation of liberty arrangements.\n\n\n\nIdentify how deprivation of liberty considerations should be reflected within care planning\, risk assessment\, and safeguarding processes.\n\n\n\nDevelop approaches that balance safety\, rights\, freedom\, and positive risk-taking.\n\n\n\nEvaluate restrictive practices and identify opportunities to reduce restrictions over time.\n\n\n\nApply learning to complex real-life situations through case analysis and reflective practice.\n\n\n\n\nIntended Audience\n\n\n\nThis course is designed for professionals working with children and young people whose care arrangements may involve restrictions on liberty or enhanced supervision. It will be particularly relevant for Social Workers\, Residential Childcare Practitioners\, Supported Accommodation Staff\, Foster Carers\, Supervising Social Workers\, Team Leaders\, Deputy Managers\, Registered Managers\, Responsible Individuals\, Nominated Individuals\, Independent Reviewing Officers\, Local Authority Practitioners\, and other professionals involved in safeguarding\, care planning\, risk management\, and supporting children and young people with complex needs. \n\n\n\nCourse Facilitator\n\n\n\nStuart Donohue is a registered Social Worker with more than 15 years of experience across child protection\, court work\, frontline social work\, and safeguarding practice. Throughout his career\, he has worked for a range of local authorities\, Cafcass\, and independent social work services\, as well as holding management responsibilities within children’s services. \n\n\n\nOver the last decade\, Stuart has developed a particular specialism in supporting children and young adults with disabilities who are deprived of their liberty. His experience ranges from working with children requiring enhanced supervision and restrictive interventions to safeguard them from significant risks\, through to supporting young adults who lack capacity to consent to aspects of their care and support arrangements. \n\n\n\nStuart is passionate about promoting lawful\, proportionate\, and rights-based approaches to deprivation of liberty. His work focuses on helping professionals develop care plans that effectively balance safety\, wellbeing\, autonomy\, and individual rights while ensuring that restrictions are continually reviewed and reduced wherever possible. His training combines legal knowledge\, practical experience\, and reflective discussion to support professionals in navigating one of the most complex areas of children’s social care practice. \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE
URL:https://socialcareskills.co.uk/event/balancing-safety-rights-and-freedom-in-childrens-social-care/
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260827T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260827T160000
DTSTAMP:20260630T094005Z
CREATED:20260630T094002Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260630T094005Z
UID:5499-1787824800-1787846400@socialcareskills.co.uk
SUMMARY:Safer Recruitment
DESCRIPTION:Overview\n\n\n\nRecruiting the right people is one of the most important safeguarding responsibilities within children’s social care. Effective safer recruitment processes help organisations identify suitable candidates\, prevent unsuitable individuals from working with children and young people\, and create safer environments where children can thrive. Recruitment decisions have long-term implications for safeguarding\, service quality\, organisational culture\, and the experiences of children and young people. \n\n\n\n📅 Date & Time: 27th August\, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM📍 Live Online via Teams📢 Early Bird Price: £104 (VAT included) – Register 2+ weeks before🎟️ Standard Price: £134 (VAT included) – Group Discount available for groups of 5+ \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE\n\n\n\n\nThis practical and regulatory-focused seminar explores the principles and processes of safer recruitment within children’s social care. Participants will develop a clear understanding of safeguarding responsibilities throughout the recruitment process\, from workforce planning and advertising through to interviewing\, vetting\, induction\, and probation. The course focuses on helping organisations strengthen recruitment practices that support compliance\, reduce risk\, and promote a strong safeguarding culture. \n\n\n\nCourse Content\n\n\n\nThis course explores the purpose and principles of safer recruitment and examines why recruitment is a critical safeguarding activity rather than simply an administrative process. Participants will consider how organisations can create recruitment systems that prioritise the safety and wellbeing of children and young people while ensuring fairness\, transparency\, and compliance with regulatory requirements. \n\n\n\nThe seminar examines each stage of the recruitment process and explores how safeguarding considerations should be embedded throughout. Participants will review job descriptions\, person specifications\, application processes\, interview techniques\, references\, employment history checks\, Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) requirements\, right-to-work checks\, qualification verification\, and risk assessment processes. Particular attention will be given to identifying warning signs\, inconsistencies\, gaps in employment history\, and indicators that may require further exploration. \n\n\n\nThe course also explores the role of professional curiosity and safeguarding-focused interviewing techniques. Participants will consider how interview questions can be used to explore attitudes\, values\, behaviours\, motivations\, and safeguarding awareness. The session examines how organisations can make safer decisions by evaluating information holistically and maintaining a child-centred perspective throughout the recruitment process. \n\n\n\nThe seminar further explores the relationship between safer recruitment\, organisational culture\, supervision\, induction\, probation\, and ongoing workforce development. Participants will consider how safer recruitment forms part of a wider safeguarding system and how organisations can create environments where safeguarding remains central beyond the point of appointment. \n\n\n\nLearning Outcomes\n\n\n\nBy the end of this course\, participants will be able to: \n\n\n\n\nUnderstand the principles and purpose of safer recruitment within children’s social care.\n\n\n\nRecognise how recruitment contributes to safeguarding and the protection of children and young people.\n\n\n\nApply safer recruitment principles throughout the recruitment and selection process.\n\n\n\nIdentify potential risks\, inconsistencies\, and safeguarding concerns within applications and employment histories.\n\n\n\nUtilise safeguarding-focused interview techniques and questioning approaches.\n\n\n\nUnderstand the role of references\, DBS checks\, qualification checks\, and other pre-employment vetting processes.\n\n\n\nStrengthen organisational systems that support safer recruitment and workforce safeguarding.\n\n\n\nPromote a safeguarding culture that extends beyond recruitment into induction\, supervision\, and workforce development.\n\n\n\n\nIntended Audience\n\n\n\nThis course is designed for professionals involved in recruitment\, management\, safeguarding\, and workforce development within children’s social care. It will be particularly relevant for Registered Managers\, Responsible Individuals\, Nominated Individuals\, Deputy Managers\, Team Leaders\, Human Resources Professionals\, Directors\, Supervising Social Workers\, Fostering Managers\, Operational Managers\, Designated Safeguarding Leads\, and other professionals involved in recruiting\, interviewing\, selecting\, or overseeing staff and volunteers who work with children and young people. \n\n\n\nCourse Facilitator\n\n\n\nMiguel Valerio is a Social Worker\, trainer\, consultant\, and regulatory specialist with more than 20 years of professional experience across children’s social care\, education\, leadership\, and service development. Throughout his career\, he has held senior leadership positions including Responsible Individual and Registered Service Manager\, with responsibility for safeguarding\, workforce development\, service quality\, and regulatory compliance. \n\n\n\nMiguel has extensive experience recruiting\, managing\, and developing staff across children’s homes and supported accommodation services. He has led recruitment campaigns\, implemented safer recruitment systems\, overseen workforce audits\, and supported organisations to strengthen safeguarding practices through robust recruitment and workforce management processes. His practical experience includes preparing services for inspection\, developing workforce strategies\, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. \n\n\n\nThrough Social Care Skills\, Miguel supports providers through consultancy\, training\, audits\, and organisational development. His training combines practical experience\, regulatory knowledge\, and real-world examples\, helping organisations build safer recruitment systems that protect children\, strengthen safeguarding cultures\, and support high-quality service delivery. \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE
URL:https://socialcareskills.co.uk/event/safer-recruitment/
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END:VCALENDAR