Last month, colleagues from across the Swanton Group came together for our seventh annual Managers’ Conference, held over two days at the Leonardo Hinckley Hotel & Conference Centre.
For this year’s theme, we focused on our PRIDE ethos and looked at the ‘Power of Potential’. Capturing the very essence of what makes Swanton and Courtyard special – that we see potential in our people and know that we can support people to reach their potential. It was an incredible event filled with connection, learning, and inspiration. Managers from across the organisation gathered to share experiences, reflect on their potential, and look ahead to the future. The energy, positivity, and enthusiasm in the room were outstanding — and it truly showed in every discussion, workshop, and presentation.
Day One Highlights
Business Development
The Business Development team opened the conference with an engaging session focused on the journey to support and how we can continue to reach and support more people across Swanton and Courtyard.
The discussion explored current commissioning trends and highlighted how every connection, conversation, and collaboration can open the door to someone new receiving the care and support they deserve.
It was an inspiring reminder that by working together and staying person-centred in everything we do, and by thinking a little differently sometimes, we can continue to make a real difference in more people’s lives every day.
Digital Potential
Technology continues to play a vital role in how we deliver quality care and support every day, and this session was all about harnessing its power. The Digital team guided us through how data can inform decision-making and improve service delivery, and outcomes for people, as well as sharing a look ahead at Swanton’s digital roadmap and future developments.
People Potential
A very inspiring session from our Learning and Development team focused on recognising and nurturing potential within our teams. Managers were encouraged to think about how they can spot strengths, create development opportunities, and celebrate success.
The session also highlighted Swanton’s internal talent initiatives — tools designed to help us share skills and grow from within.
Martin Burder: The Art of Being Brilliant
Guest speaker Martin Burder brought energy, humour, and perspective with his interactive session on The Art of Being Brilliant. Through juggling, storytelling, and reflection, he showed how positivity and self-awareness can transform leadership.
As Martin reminded us, when we bring our best energy to work, we inspire our teams to do the same.
An Evening to Remember
As the first day drew to a close, everyone gathered for a three-course dinner — a chance to relax, reflect, and enjoy each other’s company.
Guests were delighted by a surprise performance from the Silver Service Singers, a troupe of “singing waiters” who turned the evening into a musical celebration. Their performance added laughter, flair, and a touch of theatre that left the room buzzing long after dessert.
Day Two Highlights
Maria Dineen’s Contribution & Insight
We were delighted to welcome Maria Dineen, Managing Director of Consequence UK, to speak with us. Maria brings over three decades of expertise in patient safety, risk management, and investigative methodologies across health and social care.
Maria began the day by exploring how to use incidents as learning opportunities and how identifying risks helps drive continuous improvement. Her approach reinforced Swanton’s ongoing commitment to quality, transparency, and growth in all services.
Her input added depth and perspective to our sessions — helping us see how we can build resilient, safe, and person-centred systems across our organisation.
Marketplace Magic
Following the success of our Marketplace at last year’s conference, this year’s interactive space returned bigger and better — offering teams across the Swanton Group the chance to bring their work to life, connect, and collaborate.
From Digital Services, Access, Quality, and People Support to Estates, Communications, the People We Support Forum, and Business Development, each stand sparked conversation and showcased the incredible work happening across the group. It was an inspiring snapshot of innovation, teamwork, and shared learning in action — complete with plenty of treats, competitions, and fun as colleagues took part in open discussions and shared feedback.
A standout feature of the day was our Stand Out Socks giveaway — brightly coloured socks from the UK social enterprise co-founded by Ross, who has learning disabilities. The company employs and empowers people with Down syndrome to design and make bold, vibrant socks that celebrate individuality and inclusion.
A pair was gifted to our managers as a reminder to embrace and recognise the Power of Potential in everyone.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 conference was a true celebration of what we can achieve together — recognising potential, empowering people, and continuing to make a difference every day.
As Gary Thompson, CEO, said: “The Power of Potential is something that lives within each of us. When we recognise it — in ourselves, our colleagues, and the people we support — there’s no limit to what we can achieve together.”
Thank you again to everyone who attended, contributed, and helped make the event such a success. Roll on next year’s!
