An Inspiring Day at the London Children’s Services Summit 2025
Earlier this week stakeholders from across London came together for the Association of Directors of Children’s Services (ALDCS) London Children’s Services Summit 2025.
It was an inspiring day that welcomed over 200 delegates from across each of London’s 33 Local Authorities, police and health partners and government bodies and regulators including Department for Education, Mayor’s Office for Policing And Crime (MOPAC). London’s Violence Reduction Unit, Metropolitan Police, NHS England and Ofsted joining us to celebrate practice that is making a difference to the lives and outcomes of children, young people and families in London.
The event was symbolic of the culture of collaboration that has become commonplace in London. The shared energy, passion and ambition to keep building and strengthening this, as we move forward together during the ‘most significant change in children’s social care’ in a generation of reform, was palpable
Our keynote speaker was Janet Daby MP, the Minister for Children, Families and Wellbeing. Once a practicing social worker in London herself, her speech acknowledged London’s achievements in working together, and explored what reform could look like across London, answering key questions from the audience that centred on understanding the anticipated legislation for children with SEND to address the scale of the problem, the resources required to sustain the participation of police and health partners, and the ask for a cross government children’s strategy to address the structural factors which undermine children’s safety and well being.
A panel discussion on Effective Partnership Working with Health brought speakers from children’s services and NHS England together to focus on how we can build stronger, more responsive relationships that benefit children.
Table discussions allowed for consideration of shared challenges and opportunities that call for regional strategies.
The highlight of the event though, was Practice Spotlight – a regional practice sharing initiative that allowed delegates the opportunity to learn from one another as part of an exhibition-style marketplace and a series of presentations. Local Authority teams showcased their innovations and impact, building connections and collaborations that will form a key part of sector-led improvement in London.
Thank you to all attendees, speakers and to everybody that supported with the organisation and success of the day; we look forward to celebrating and sharing more practice together!
Explore Practice Spotlight
Please do engage in the Practice Spotlight Digital Area – a very special resource that allows all stakeholders to directly engage with the many examples of practice shared as part of the initiative from across London’s Local Authorities.