Two days of inspiration at the Care Strategy Forum

The Care Strategy Forum brings together senior leaders from across the social care sector for two days of discussion, collaboration, and strategic thinking. The event combines keynote presentations, peer-to-peer networking, and focused conversations on the issues shaping the future of care. Fresh from attending the event at De Vere Cotswold Water Park, our Chief Customer Officer Paul Barnes reflects on the conversations, insights, and standout moments.  

The Care Strategy Forum is a uniquely engaging and energising event. One that I always leave feeling genuinely inspired. 

There is something special about being in a room with senior leaders from across the social care sector. For me, one of the greatest privileges of my role is the opportunity to connect with decision makers with diverse perspectives and experiences. These conversations, whether they’re during sessions, over lunch, or in the corridors remind me why this work matters so much. 

If I had to name one thing that makes social care genuinely unique as a sector, it would be the willingness to collaborate. Unlike many industries where competitors guard their insights jealously, social care leaders openly share what’s working, what isn’t, and how they’re navigating the challenges ahead. This commitment to co-production lies at the heart of how we approach technology at Nourish Care. We help each other to succeed. Because ultimately the people we serve are better off when we do. This spirit was on full display across both days at the Care Strategy Forum. 

The need for collaboration between the NHS and social care was perhaps the defining theme of the forum. Understandably so. 

Clare Pelham, CEO of the Epilepsy Society, spoke to this issue with earnest openness. She is, in her own words, cross. Also, understandably so.  

The barriers that continue to exist between health and social care have persistent consequences for people utilising both services. Hearing that frustration voiced so clearly and unapologetically by a sector leader was powerful. And it set the tone for important conversations over the next two days. 

Matthew Douglas from MHA shared a thoughtful and practical path forward for how the two systems might work more effectively together. His contribution reminded the room that while the frustration is entirely justified, there are leaders already doing the hard work of building bridges. There remains a substantial gulf to cross in places, but it is energising to see how much work people are already putting into it. 

Marianne Wanstall from Tricuro added real depth to the conversation. She shared some excellent examples of good practice in Local Authority collaboration. Hearing concrete, working examples of what’s possible was a reminder that the solutions exist. The challenge now, is scaling them. 

Our sector is facing significant pressures. Financial sustainability, workforce challenges, and operational complexity are weighing heavily on providers of all shapes, sizes and specialisations. 

Lynette Barrett from National Star shared some valuable guidance on how to navigate this difficult landscape. Her grounded, practical perspective, informed by her first-hand experience, was exactly the kind of insight that makes this forum so worthwhile. The message was clear. The pressures are real, but with the right approach and the right mindset, they can be managed. 

If one theme cut across almost every session at the forum, it was connected care. To the delight of every attendee, myself very much included, the conversation is moving beyond aspiration and into action. Many discussions covered the practicalities of building connections. That means systems that talk to each other, data that flows where it needs to flow, and information arriving in the right hands at the right time. 

The sector is acutely aware that fragmented technology and siloed data are among the biggest barriers to truly person-centred care.  

I was encouraged by the growing sense of momentum throughout the forum. A recognition that this is more than a technology problem to be solved. It is a cultural and organisational challenge as well. We need to continue to develop strong foundations to harness this momentum. Getting the data right, understanding what needs to be shared and with whom, and building the trust between people to make that sharing happen. These are the foundations on which truly connected care will be built. 

No sector gathering in 2026 would be complete without a conversation about artificial intelligence. What was refreshing about the discussion at the Care Strategy Forum was the quality of the conversation. Kate Doodson from Brandon Trust did a superb job of keeping everyone grounded. She helped the room cut through the noise and focus on what AI can realistically and responsibly offer social care. Both in the future and right now.  

It was a timely reminder of the power of thoughtful, critical engagement with new technology. A particularly striking perspective against the backdrop of breathless enthusiasm and reflexive scepticism filling our social media feeds. (Or filling mine at least!) 

Two days, a huge amount to think about, and the usual warm sense of community that makes this event one I look forward to every year. Particular thanks to Lyndsay Atkinson-Swales from St Anne’s Community Services, who chaired the forum with skill, warmth, and just the right touch of wit throughout. 

I left the Cotswolds with a notebook full of ideas and a renewed sense of purpose. I remain deeply grateful to be part of a sector that truly looks out for one another. The challenges ahead are significant, but so too is the willingness to collaborate, innovate, and learn from one another. That’s what gives me confidence in what we can build together!