Inspiring Change Together: Fair Ways Annual Conference 2025

Last week, Fair Ways hosted our Annual Conference 2025 at Lakeside North Harbour, bringing together more than 450 colleagues from across our services for two days of inspiration, reflection, and connection. The event, held on Thursday 23rd and Friday 24th October, was also live-streamed to our colleagues in Wales, ensuring everyone could be part of this important celebration of our shared mission and values.

The Conference has always been a special moment in the Fair Ways calendar – a time to pause, learn, and reconnect with why we do what we do. This year’s event was no exception, featuring four exceptional guest speakers who each brought powerful, thought-provoking messages that resonated deeply with our teams.

Smash Life: “No Bells, No Jargon, Just Truth”

We were honoured to welcome Matt and Andy from Smash Life, two care-experienced people who now run their own organisation supporting others. Their presentation was nothing short of extraordinary.

Their message went far beyond simply helping us understand the experiences of young people in care – it was a heartfelt and unfiltered reminder of what it means to truly communicate and behave with care. Matt and Andy spoke with honesty, humour and humility, reminding everyone in the room that the behaviour of every professional matters, and that each of us has a choice in whether our influence is positive or negative.

Chris Wild: Returning with Purpose

We were also privileged to welcome back Chris Wild, presenting at our Conference for the second time. Chris once again shared his incredible personal story with honesty and passion, capturing the attention and admiration of everyone in the room.

His continued campaigning to make care experience a protected characteristic is a credit to his dedication and advocacy – and Fair Ways will be actively exploring how we can support this vital work.

Dr Emma Woodward: Psychology with Heart

Our third guest speaker, Dr Emma Woodward, brought an equally powerful message from a different perspective. As a renowned psychologist with over two decades of leadership experience in the mental health sector, Emma’s session combined professional insight with deeply personal reflection.

Her story, and the authenticity with which she told it, reminded us of the potential within every young person we work with. Emma’s journey through adversity, resilience and growth was both moving and motivating, making her not only an inspiring professional but also an outstanding role model for anyone striving to overcome life’s challenges.

Looking Ahead

Across both days, our teams engaged, reflected, and connected around a shared commitment: to continue providing the highest standards of care, compassion, and support for those who need it most.

The 2025 Annual Conference was more than just an event – it was a reminder of what unites us as a community. By coming together, sharing stories, and learning from one another, we continue to build an organisation defined by empathy, excellence and purpose.

Thank you to everyone who made this year’s Conference such a success – our speakers, organisers, and every colleague who took part. Together, we are Fair Ways.