Where care leaders connected
A day of practical learning, direct answers and meaningful connections at HSCPN Meet & Greet Session 16 in Peterborough.
On Saturday 12 September 2026, the Health and Social Care Providers Network (HSCPN) welcomed care providers, business owners, specialists, exhibitors and community leaders to the Peterborough Marriott Hotel for Meet & Greet Session 16. The theme, Better Collaboration for Better Outcomes, was reflected throughout a programme that combined useful business insight with time to ask questions and build relationships.
Danai guided the formal programme as Master of Ceremonies, introducing speakers and keeping the sessions moving. From the first introductions to the conversations over dinner, the event gave people space to compare experiences, discover services that could support their organisations and discuss the challenges shaping health and social care.
A welcome from Peterborough
We were honoured to welcome the Worshipful the Mayor of Peterborough, Councillor Chris Harper, and Mrs Rita Harper. They met attendees and engaged with the HSCPN community during the day. Their visit brought a valued civic connection to a gathering focused on the people and organisations delivering care.
What we learned together
The presentations looked at the many connected decisions involved in running a care organisation: how to grow sustainably, understand costs, win clients, meet regulatory duties, use technology responsibly and maintain high standards of care.
Admire opened the formal programme with a challenge to business owners to build strong foundations before stretching into too many ventures. His message on focused, steady growth set the tone for a day of practical reflection.
Sam from Blue Hector examined what a care hour really costs. Beyond the headline fee, providers need to account for the full cost of delivery when pricing services, assessing contracts and planning for a sustainable business.
Rumbi from Tulia explored the demands of navigating Home Office, Ofsted and CQC requirements. The level of discussion showed how strongly providers value clear guidance and reliable processes around compliance.
From client growth to quality care
Mel discussed securing private live-in care clients, including how providers can position their services and build trust with prospective clients and families. Shupi presented a compliance system designed to help businesses organise information and work more consistently.
Godfrey from Care Quality Support addressed the opportunities and risks of AI in care. He urged providers to protect confidential client information and to think carefully before entering personal details into tools they cannot adequately monitor or control.
Dr Matthew from Eaglemat Insurance looked beyond the insurance policy to wider organisational risk. George focused on protecting, storing and retaining personal data correctly. Joy from Joyous Consultant closed the formal speaker programme by bringing the discussion back to the Gold Standard in Complex Care and the quality of support people receive.
Direct questions for the Home Office
The virtual session with Home Office representatives was a particular highlight. The discussion addressed common compliance failings and mistakes on Certificate of Sponsorship applications. Attendees asked about sponsorship, compliance and issues affecting their businesses. The representatives remained for an additional 30 minutes beyond the planned session to continue answering questions.
There was more to discuss than the available time allowed. Outstanding questions were recorded for follow-up, reflecting the value of creating opportunities for direct engagement on subjects that have a real impact on providers.
The conversations continued beyond the stage
Learning was only one part of Session 16. Attendees met exhibitors, introduced their own organisations and exchanged ideas around the tables. These conversations gave businesses a chance to discover potential partners, share experience and make connections that can continue after the event.
As the formal programme gave way to dinner, the raffle and evening entertainment, people had more time to reconnect and speak in a relaxed setting. The mix of presentations and informal networking is what makes the HSCPN Meet & Greet more than a day of talks.
See more from Session 16
Explore the speakers, exhibitors, guests and conversations from the day. Click a photo to view it at full size.
View all 28 event photos
Watch the Session 16 highlights
Take a look back at the people, conversations and moments that made the day.
Our sincere thanks go to every speaker, exhibitor, attendee and supporter, to the Home Office representatives for engaging with the questions raised, and to the Mayor and Mrs Harper for joining us. Your contributions made Session 16 a place to learn, connect and consider what better collaboration can achieve for care providers and the people they support.
