In recent years, the need to improve the support and protection provided to the most vulnerable people in society has been widely acknowledged. This has been recognised in government measures such as making the existence of Safeguarding Adults Boards legally mandatory for all local authorities, and in the recently published care and support white paper that emphasises the need for greater national consistency in access, a focus on wellbeing and independence where possible, better information for informed choice and service user control, and the improved quality and integration of services.

Improving Care, Improving Lives: supporting society's vulnerable adults features a panel of high-profile speakers from the fields of health and social care and disability advocacy who will be exploring a range of contemporary issues such as dignity and empowerment, personalisation, multi-agency safeguarding, integrated care and support of unpaid carers. The afternoon panel debate will focus on practical solutions to financial challenges that can be broached at a local level without national reform. Delegates will hear practical examples of best practice, gain a better understanding of the latest developments in the field, and have opportunities for discussion and debate that will furnish them with the tools to transform their own practice.