20th & 21st OCTOBER // HILTON BIRMINGHAM METROPOLE

2026 CHA Conference &

National Children's Homes Awards

'Towards a resilient residential sector' - Learning from the Past, Protecting the Future

2 Days

Expert Speakers

OFSTED and DfE

300+ Providers

National Children's Homes Awards 2026 Ceremony Dinner

UK's most important event in residential childcare in 2026

20 & 21st October at The Hilton Birmingham Metropole

Two full days of expert speakers offering real-world tools and powerful, actionable insights

Sessions covering policy, practice, and professional excellence

Relaxing, spacious venue ideal for collaboration and learning

Free spa and gym access for all-inclusive ticket holders

An evening of celebration at our 2026 National Children's Homes Awards Ceromony (scroll down for more information and how to enter)

Early Bird All-Inclusive Tickets are now available: All-inclusive tickets include 2-day conference attendance, a place at the National Children's Homes Awards ceremony and on-site accommodation at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole!

Save up to £260 on All-inclusive tickets if you're a member of The Children's Homes Association.

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Why attend?

Speakers confirmed so far...

Dr Dan Hughes

Renowned Clinical Psychologist, Founder of Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP), internationally recognised expert in attachment and trauma.

Dr Hannah Hayward

Neurodevelopmental Specialist - passionate about supporting the wellbeing, dignity, and visibility of neurodivergent individuals.

Professor Harry Sumnall

Professor in Substance Abuse whose research spans drug prevention, policy, harm reduction and emerging trends such as ketamine and psychedelic use.

Sir Martyn Oliver & Yvette Stanley

Sir Martyn, His Majesty's Chief Inspector & Yvette, the Ofsted National Director for Social Care.

Smash Life

Experts by Experience, Andy and Matt, will be presenting this year's National Children's Homes Awards ceremony!

Rachel W - Living Legacy Learning

Dual Perspective Specialist, 30 years of expertise in the care sector and care experienced. Consultant, Reflective Psychodynamic Supervision, Director of Living Legacy Learning.

Dr Mark Kerr

Recognised expert in Residential Childcare, CEO of The Children's Homes Association.

The Big House - A DoL House

Powerful Theatre comes from Care

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Explore our venue: Hilton Birmingham Metropole

Still not convinced? Watch a recap from last year's event

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EXCLUSIVE TO CHA MEMBERS

National Children's Homes Awards 2026

Every day, professionals in our sector go above and beyond for children and young people—but their vital work too often goes unrecognised, which is why in 2025 we launched these annual awards to honour the leadership, compassion, and innovation that make our members so impactful. The Awards ceremony dinner and entertainment will take place on the evening of 20th October and attendance and accommodation are included in all-inclusive conference tickets!

If you're not yet a CHA member, why not join today so you can nominate your organisation or an amazing colleague in this year's awards? CHA Members also receive substantial discounts on all CHA Conference 2026 tickets.