Regional Update – January 2026

From Solihull’s DCS:

I’m writing this in the days between Christmas and New Year, a time to reflect upon the past year, and look with both excitement and not a little trepidation to the year ahead.

I’ve been the Director of Children's Services in Solihull since August of last year, and it’s been a packed few months! We’ve had our long awaited ILACS inspection, been busy preparing ourselves with the design and forthcoming implementation of the Families First reforms and of course had to contend with a local and national political context that is moving us sharply to the right. The contested debate over flags appearing in our local areas has been very present and has been particularly significant for me as a brown Indian man who grew up in South London in the 1970’s, when the National Front terrorised those who looked like me, and appropriated the Union Jack as part of this process.

These events have reminded me of the importance of our services as a vehicle to not only change lives, but to actively work to reduce inequality. All aspects of the services we deliver are subject to the unequal outcomes that operate in our society, and we have a unique opportunity to act justly to address this. For me, the Families First reforms are a great opportunity to embed this support for social justice. We can implement anti-racism into our practice model and work consciously to level the playing field for our black and brown families. The increased focus upon kinship care and family led decision-making can particularly benefit these families if we consciously act to ensure this. It is my ambition and hope that we will do so in Solihull in a way that embodies our values and ensures that we deliver the very best services to those that are most marginalised. This is the most exciting start to the year ahead!

Kind regards

Rasheed Pendry

Families First Partnerships – Communities of Practice:12^th FebruaryJoin us for the next Families First Communities of Practice session, continuing the collaborative work launched in June 2024. This is a space for regional colleagues to connect, share learning, and shape future priorities. We’ll spotlight MACPT’s partnership with the police and begin exploring how SEND reforms will align as we move into 2026. A valuable opportunity to reflect on progress, exchange ideas, and influence what comes next.

For more information contact Sandeep Virk.

AI Festival of Practice: Councils Leading the Way in AI:

From Monday 26th –Friday 30th January 2026, join colleagues from WM Employers for a week-long virtual festival exploring how councils are already using AI to improve services, reduce pressure, and spark new ways of working.

This isn’t about future promises or tech jargon – it’s councils learning from councils.

For more details, click here.

Aspirant DCS Leadership programme:

The Staff College are taking notifications of interest for their next round of Aspirant Leadership Programme.

This programme is designed for experienced leaders in the local government children's services or those in other relevant fields such as education, healthcare, adult services, the civil service, or other public sector roles.

By registering your interest in the programme, you’ll be the first to know when applications open so you can get your application in early.

For more details and to register interest, click here.

Leading in Uncertainty:

This Spring, The Staff College is launching Leading in Uncertainty – a three-day programme for heads of service, assistant directors and senior leaders who are working in that complexity and want practical tools and space to think.

For more details and to register your interest, click here.

Upcoming Conferences and Events

Innovate and Grow Conference 2026 – Booking Now Live – FREE

Following the success of last year’s event, we’re delighted to confirm that Innovate and Grow 2026 will take place on 10 February 2026 at the University of Warwick – and bookings are now open!

This is a valuable opportunity to share, celebrate and learn from innovation and practice across the region. The event brings together colleagues from across services – not just Children’s Social Care – to support wider system learning, collaboration and reflection.

·       Inspiring keynote speakers

·       Practical workshops showcasing best practice

·       Opportunities to collaborate across sectors

·       Special feature: The Relational Social Work Podcast will be recording live on the day!

To reserve your place, click here.

Regional Safeguarding Conference 5^th March – FREE 

This year’s Regional Safeguarding Network Annual Conference will be at the Bescot Stadium, Walsall on 5th March and will be themed around neglect. Join us for a day filled with insightful discussions, networking opportunities, and expert speakers. This in-person event is the perfect chance to connect with professionals in the field and stay up to date on the latest topics and best practices in safeguarding. Don't miss out on this valuable opportunity to enhance your knowledge and skills.

Please contact your Safeguarding Lead for further information.

Participation Conference 12th March – FREE

Join us at Cable Plaza for this year’s Participation Conference themed around empowering young people to be the voice of change. We invite participation leads, young

people, apprentices, lead members, and senior leaders to join us, hear from key speakers, and share best practice from across the West Midlands region.

Please contact your Participation Lead for further information and to book your place at this year’s conference.