The Yorkshire and Humber Care Association Alliance (YHCAA) Conference in May brought together care leaders, professionals, and sector partners from across the region, in what proved to be a highly successful and energising event.
With a strong turnout from providers and stakeholders, the conference demonstrated the power and importance of a united voice in adult social care across Yorkshire and the Humber. The event created a valuable space for collaboration, shared learning, and forward-thinking discussion at a time of continued change and challenge within the sector.
The conference opened with a warm welcome and scene-setting from three YHCAA board members: James Creegan, CEO of Kirklees and Calderdale Care Association; Louise Betwick, CEO of Bradford Care Association; and Michelle Atkinson, CEO of Leeds Care Association. Together, they highlighted the importance of partnership working and collective leadership in shaping the future of care services across the region.
James Creegan also hosted the event, expertly guiding attendees through a varied and insightful programme of speakers and sessions.
Delegates benefited from a series of expert-led presentations, covering some of the most pressing issues facing adult social care today. Topics included the development of Integrated Neighbourhood Teams, delivered by the Care Association Alliance (CAA), offering insight into emerging models of joined-up care at a local level.
Hempsons provided an update on immigration and regulatory considerations, alongside the Care Quality Commission (CQC), helping providers navigate ongoing workforce and compliance challenges. Citation delivered a session on the Employment Rights Act, offering practical guidance on employment law and its implications for care providers.
The North East Cyber Resilience Centre highlighted the growing importance of cyber security within care settings, equipping providers with knowledge to strengthen digital resilience and safeguard sensitive information.
Attendees also heard directly from CQC on “what’s to come,” providing valuable forward insight into regulatory developments, while Skills for Care led a session focused on developing the domestic workforce, addressing one of the sector’s most critical priorities.
The conference closed on a high, with overwhelmingly positive feedback reflecting the quality of the content, the relevance of the topics, and the opportunity to connect with peers from across the region.
YHCAA extends a sincere thank you to all speakers, partners, and attendees who contributed to making the event such a success. Special thanks are also given to event sponsors Hempsons, Citation, Realise, and Care Choices, whose support played a key role in delivering the conference.
Events like this underline YHCAA’s commitment to supporting the sector, amplifying the voice of providers, and fostering collaboration to drive improvement and sustainability across adult social care.