On 15 May 2025, Praxis Care held its inaugural forum, Navigating the Future of Social Care, at The MAC, Belfast — bringing together sector leaders, policymakers, practitioners, and individuals with lived experience to explore how we can shape a stronger, more inclusive care system.
The event featured a diverse panel of speakers who offered vital insights into the current challenges and future direction of social care.
Highlights included:
- A powerful call for cross-sector collaboration from Praxis Care’s NI and Isle of Man Director of Care, Greer Wilson.
- Vice Chair Professor Mary McColgan OBE urged a renewed focus on mission and values amid shifting pressures in funding and service delivery.
- First-hand accounts from Chaise Shelford and Jade Kelly offered moving, personal perspectives on life in the care system and the urgent need for better support.
- Senior leaders from the Department of Health, Social Care Council, ARC NI, and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive shared strategic updates on policy reform, workforce development, and system transformation.
From frontline voices to executive vision, the forum underscored a shared commitment to building a social care system that is compassionate, resilient, and future-ready.