ALDCS Children’s Services Summit 2023

ALDCS annual summit, bringing together the 33 London Authorities and the many partners who work #TogetherforLondonsChildren

The Summit heard from national government, from partners and different parts of our local authorities. In setting out the government’s Care Review Implementation plans, Susan Acland-Hood, Permanent Secretary, Department for Education reminded us that “leaders are dealers in hope” who need to come together to deliver the plan for children: “it’s just a piece of paper, now we have to make it happen.”

In speaking of this collective responsibility, our key note speaker Martin Griffith’s Consultant Trauma Surgeon and National Lead for NHS Violence Reduction Programme reminded us all that “we are here to be humble, to listen […] and to remember when we were younger, we had passion, we asked questions and we listened to the answers.”

Reflections from Speakers

“Hope is not enough – we must use all of our learning to make things better.”

Cllr Ian Edwards – Leader London Borough of Hillingdon and London Councils Executive Lead for Schools and Children’s Services

“We all carry the responsibility of joy for the young people of this city. Let’s dig in and change London.”

Martin Griffiths – Consultant Trauma Surgeon and National Lead for NHS Violence Reduction Programme

“Our political context drives success and allows innovation.”

Martin Pratt – Deputy Chief Executive and Executive Director for Families LB Camden and ALDCS Chair

“The power of education remains the catalyst for the change we need.”

Ade Adetosoye – Chief Executive of the London Borough Bromley, Chief Executive Lead Adviser for Children Services

Resources