From Walsall’s DCS and our Workforce and Leadership sponsor:
This is my first regional update as a relatively new DCS and a very new DCS sponsor for the Workforce and Leadership Network. This baton was handed over to me from Catherine Driscoll, DCS from Dudley who recently retired. Although I am a new DCS sponsor for this network, I was previously involved as a previous Principle Social Worker and Assistant Director in the regional work relating to workforce, in particular the agency MOU. Improving workforce stability is a key priority for each of the West Midlands DCS’s and Trust CEO’s and is part of our regional delivery plan. This year for the first time we have broadened out the remit of this ambition to more than just our social work workforce, with consideration to how we utilise the skills of non-social work qualified staff, availability and retention of our residential workforce and availability and pipeline of educational psychologists.
The Workforce and Leadership Network have worked tirelessly for the benefit of the region. We have commissioned an aspirant leader’s programme, jointly with colleagues in the South West. In addition to this we have engaged with the Staff College to offer 25 of our global majority colleagues a place on the BALI programme. We have as always continued to monitor, challenge and regulate the agency market and it is really positive that many LA areas are reporting a reduction in use of agency staff.
On 12th November 2024 we held our fourth Big Thinking Event (BTE). Although this was my first BTE as a DCS sponsor, it was my third BTE as a participant. This year we encouraged attendance from across the workforce, not just leaders and managers. I am pleased to say that nearly all LA’s and Trusts were represented and as always there was lots of energy in the room as we considered how we can make the West Midlands the ‘go to’ region of choice for children’s workforce professionals. During the course of the day, we considered the current issues we need to solve, we heard from two University of Birmingham student social workers on their experiences and what they are looking for from future employers. We also considered where the gaps are in leadership and management support, particularly in relation to residential staff. However, where we saw the greatest energy was in relation to the use of AI in Children’s Services. This opportunity is likely to dominate many of our regional workstreams going forward, so watch this space.
One of the takeaways from the day was the development of a West Midlands pledge to new workers joining the region, setting out what they can expect from any of us, encouraging people to think positively about working for a West Midlands LA or Trust.
Finally with three Families First for Children Pathfinders in the region, we couldn’t not consider the opportunities available through the pathfinder to extend and maximise the skill and experience across the whole Children’s Workforce.
It was a great day, with lots to reflect on and to take into the work of the network.
A huge thank you to John Coleman (Warwickshire) and Claire Jervis (Walsall) for your work in leading the Workforce and Leadership Network and your achievements this year.
Kind regards
Colleen Male
Regional Office- Christmas Closure:
In preparation for the festive season, we would like to remind you that the Regional Office will be closed from 4pm on Tuesday 24th December, reopening at 9am on Thursday 2nd January.
BALI (Black and Asian Leadership Initiative):
Our recent cohort of BALI applicants have now completed the two-day residential element of the programme. And are looking forward to the final day in February.
Feedback has been very positive, and we would like to thank Staff College colleagues for facilitating an outstanding programme.
We are still considering the possibility of running a further cohort, next Spring/Summer, so if you would like to be added to our waiting list, please email the Regional Team.
Aspirant HoS programme:
We are currently negotiating with colleagues in the South West, and hopefully will be able to offer a few more places on this highly sought after programme. If you would like to register your interest, please email the Regional Team.
Inspiring Women into Leadership:
This workshop is aimed at women who may be at a crossroads in their career and interested in exploring the possibility of moving into management/ leadership positions.
Please note that this event incurs a cost of £375 +VAT. Applications should be made directly to Staff College.
Book your sessions at the Staff College Festival 2025:
Once again, we are happy to support and encourage participation in The Staff Colledge’s annual free festival, taking place between Monday 3rd – Friday 14th February 2025. This is an opportunity to grow your network, hear from industry experts and develop your skills.
To sign up, please visit this link.
FREE Staff College Event in partnership with Foundations and LGA:
This December, Staff College are hosting a symposium focused on perinatal and early years risks of parental conflict, a vital topic in safeguarding. This event is specifically designed for safeguarding leads.
More details can be found here.
Upcoming Conferences and Events
Safeguarding Conference – 28th November:
Following on from last years successful Safeguarding Conference, we have agreed to hold a similar event in November.
The theme of this years conference is Safeguarding, Innovation & New Ways of Working.
The target audience is IRO’s and CP chairs, but if you have an interest in attending, please talk to your Regional Safeguarding Network representative.
Innovate and Grow Conference - 17th March 2025:
A regional conference on practice and development. The Innovate and Grow Conference is a unique opportunity to spotlight the outstanding work being done across the West Midlands region. This is your chance to engage with leaders, innovators, and practitioners dedicated to shaping the future of care for children and families. Let’s work together to build stronger, more connected communities.
Together, we'll explore practical solutions, celebrate our strengths, and foster collaboration that will help us thrive even in uncertain times. Join professionals, leaders, and changemakers from across the region to innovate, grow, and lead us into a brighter future.
More details can be found here.
Secure your spot today using this link – Innovate and Grow Conference 2025: Regional Conference on Practice and Development
Webinar and taster sessions:
Regional Commissioning Hub: Strategies to reduce placement costs for children and young people, and insights on how we utilise our data dashboards more effectively
· 29th November 11-12.00
· Led by: The Regional Commissioning Hub
· Book here: Taster Session: Regional Commissioning Hub
Building Strong Children’s Homes: Gain a national and strategic perspective on setting up successful children’s homes
· 5th December 11-12.00
· Led by: Coventry City Council
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