Now in its second year, the SESCA Annual Conference took place on Tuesday 10th June 2025 at Sandown Park Racecourse — and was once again a resounding success. Over 100 senior managers from care providers across the South-East attended, alongside representatives from partner organisations including the Care Association Alliance and SESCA’s nine regional Care Associations.
This year’s programme featured a strong line-up of expert speakers addressing many of the most pressing issues in adult social care. The day opened with a keynote address from Erica Lockhart MBE, Chair of SESCA, who reflected on SESCA’s development into a formally incorporated company and shared updates on its major regional initiatives.
Erica’s presentation highlighted the significant progress made under the DHSC-funded International Recruitment Project, which has now successfully placed 100 displaced overseas care workers into new sponsored employment.
Erica also outlined SESCA’s strategic goals, including workforce development, data collection, and expanding public affairs activity.
Throughout the day, delegates heard from a range of leading voices across the care and legal sectors. Highlights included:
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Sharon Ellis (My Home Life England) on empowering the workforce through professional development
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Kashif Majeed (Aston Brooke Solicitors) with essential updates on new immigration rules
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Kat Tolfree (Frimley Health NHS Trust) on fostering belonging for care staff
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Rebecca McCollum (RWK Goodman) on employment reforms and managing rising staffing costs
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Neil Eastwood (Care Friends) on UK-based recruitment strategies
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Angie McNally (OACP) and Khaled Gamiet (Qwikify) discussing the risks and rewards of AI in social care
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Sultana Pasha (Manor Group Consulting) offering practical insights on achieving CQC compliance
Alongside the speaker programme, delegates had the chance to explore exhibitor stands showcasing digital tools and care-sector innovations, as well as connect with peers from across the region.
Attendee Feedback
Feedback from attendee evaluation forms was overwhelmingly positive. The vast majority rated the overall experience, quality of sessions and speakers, and venue and facilities as “excellent.”
Participants described the event as “very informative and helpful to enhance our practice as an organisation”, with another writing: “Every session was relevant and inspiring.” Others praised SESCA’s practical approach: “The information shared will really benefit our members” and “It’s clear that SESCA is listening to providers and responding to the real challenges we’re facing.”
Erica Lockhart MBE, SESCA Chair, summed up the day:
“The evaluation responses speak for themselves — this was a truly successful event that brought together care providers, associations and partners from across the region. My sincere thanks to everyone who contributed, presented, exhibited and attended. Together, we are building a stronger care community in the South East.”
View the photos from the day, together with the programme, including speaker and exhibitor list, here on the SESCA website.