investing in learning and better outcomes; our care team development day

Back in June, colleagues from across our services came together for a full-day Team Development Day focused on strengthening practice, sharing knowledge and enhancing the support we provide to young people.

looking back and looking ahead

We started the day with service updates, reflecting on the period from April 2025 to March 2026. Teams reviewed key performance data, staffing updates, contract developments and examples of good news and success from across the service. It was an opportunity to celebrate progress while focusing on the opportunities and challenges ahead.

staying current with regulation and standards

A dedicated session explored current Ofsted updates and regulatory requirements, helping colleagues stay informed about the latest expectations and best practice. Keeping up to date with legislation and guidance is an essential part of maintaining safe and high-quality services for young people.

strengthening safeguarding practice

A significant part of the day was dedicated to child protection training. Safeguarding remains at the heart of everything we do, and this session provided an opportunity to refresh knowledge, strengthen understanding and reinforce our shared responsibility to keep young people safe.

supporting staff to safeguard young people in a digital world

As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly accessible, staff took part in a safeguarding-focused session exploring how young people are engaging with AI and the potential risks and opportunities this presents. The discussion examined issues such as online safety, misinformation, AI-generated imagery, and chatbots.

The session encouraged staff to develop their understanding of emerging technologies and consider how they can support young people to use AI safely, responsibly and critically. By strengthening awareness of digital risks and safeguarding considerations, the training helped ensure colleagues are equipped to have informed conversations with young people and respond appropriately to any concerns that may arise.

working in partnership with the local authority

We were pleased to welcome a representative from the West Sussex County Council missing persons team for a guest speaker session. The discussion focused on how agencies can work together effectively to support young people, highlighting the importance of partnership working and information sharing in achieving positive outcomes.

creating trauma-informed environments

One of the key themes of the day was trauma-informed practice. Through discussions about language, reporting, recording and the physical environment, colleagues considered how every aspect of our work can help create spaces where young people feel safe and supported. Practical exercises encouraged staff to reflect on how incidents are recorded and how communication can promote dignity and understanding.

supporting young people with complex needs

The final learning session focused on supporting complex placements. Through shared experiences and discussion, colleagues explored approaches that strengthen support for young people with higher levels of need while promoting stability, engagement and positive outcomes.

a day of learning and reflection

The day concluded with an opportunity for staff to reflect on their key learning points and provide feedback on the training. More than anything, the event reinforced the value of continuous learning and collaboration in helping us provide the best possible support to young people.