Call for speakers and exhibitors to join “AI and the future of social work– a one day summit”
Skills for Care and Social Work England are calling on leaders, innovators and experts across AI, social work, technology, policy and education to contribute to the first ever “AI and the future of social work” event.
The free one‑day national summit is taking place on Wednesday 20 May 2026 in Edgbaston, Birmingham and will bring together more than 300 attendees to consider how artificial intelligence can enhance social work practice across the whole of the professional journey, from student to leadership.
The event will consider how AI can support the human relationships, ethical judgment, and professional standards at the heart of social work.
The organisers are now inviting individuals and organisations to express their interest in contributing their insight, experience or innovations by speaking or exhibiting at the event.
Potential contributors may offer keynote talks, presentations, panel discussions, workshops, hands‑on demonstrations or lived experience insights on the opportunities, challenges, and realities of AI in practice.
Those contributing to the event will have the opportunity to meet practitioners, test ideas, gain real‑time feedback, and build relationships with those working across the social work sector from across the country. Those exhibiting will also benefit from visibility through the ongoing promotion of the summit.
Jane Brightman, Director of Workforce Development, Skills for Care, says:
Artificial intelligence is already reshaping the world around us, and social work must have a strong, informed and influential voice in how these technologies develop.
This summit is so important because it brings together everyone who has a stake in the future of social work. By creating a space for open discussion, practical exploration and shared learning, we can ensure AI enhances rather than replaces the human relationships and professional judgement at the heart of our sector.
Your insight, expertise and experience will shape a national conversation about responsible, ethical and effective use of technology. Whether you’re developing AI tools, leading social work practice, researching emerging innovation or drawing on care and support yourself, your contribution will help us collectively understand what good looks like.
Sarah Blackmore, Executive Director for Professional Practice and External Engagement at Social Work England says:
Social workers work under immense pressure and continue to find creative solutions that have a profound impact on society. It’s no surprise many social workers are grasping the opportunities AI can bring to how they work.
The AI summit will help make sure social workers are equipped to navigate the fast-changing developments in AI. It will explore how social workers can use AI ethically and responsibly and in line with their professional standards. This is vital in protecting the public and continuing to build public trust and confidence in the social work profession.
Organisations and individuals who wish to contribute must complete an expression of interest by 2 March 2026 by visiting: www.skillsforcare.org.uk/aiinsocialwork
Expressions of interest will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and the window may close early if high levels of interest are received.
Before submitting, please ensure proposals align with the central summit question and one or more of the following themes:
- responsible AI and regulation;
- AI in social work education and training;
- leadership and implementation;
- lived experience led innovation.
This event emphasises the importance of AI in social work and is a core element of the Workforce Strategy for Adult Social Care in England.
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