It felt a real privilege to have a stand “We Are Social Care Nursing” at the Dementia Care event at Birmingham NEC last week, coming together once again alongside partners including the Royal College of Nursing, Queen’s Nursing Institute, Skills for Care, National Institute for Health and Care Research, University of Salford and the RCN Foundation.
Having worked together for several years, there is now a strong sense of cohesion, professionalism and trust each organisation understanding the value the others bring.
One of the most energising moments came during our panel discussion, “Dementia care: what we know, what we do, and what matters.” A simple question was posed:
“What is one thing you can do tomorrow to improve dementia care?”
Many important themes were discussed, but one I want to focus on is opening the doors of adult social care to student nurses. Placements are not just about learning they are about inspiring future nurses and helping them see what great, person-centred dementia care really looks like.
This clearly resonated. Following the panel, people came straight to the stand some sharing the brilliant work already happening, others asking how they could get started with placements. With colleagues from Skills for Care present, conversations quickly turned into action, with practical advice, connections and support offered on the spot.
Conversations also went beyond placements. Opportunities to get involved in research through the National Institute for Health and Care Research were highlighted, alongside funding options from the RCN Foundation to support further education and career development. Approaches such as resilience-based clinical supervision were shared, with signposting to the Foundation of Nursing Studies to support workforce wellbeing and development.
The importance of connecting locally was also emphasised, encouraging nurses to engage with their Social Care Nursing Advisory (SCNA) networks dedicated spaces to share learning, support student placements and drive wider sector improvement.
For those new to adult social care, excellent resources from the Queen’s Institute of Community Nursing were highlighted, including the Guide for Nurses New to Adult Social Care. This supports nurses transitioning into care homes and community settings, focusing on safe practice, wellbeing, professional development and navigating the unique landscape of adult social care.
What stood out most was the power of bringing people together. When professionals with a shared passion for adult social care connect, even a single conversation can spark ideas, partnerships and actions that last far beyond the event ultimately leading to better outcomes for people who draw on care and support.
