Held at Excel London at the end of November, the Care Management Show once again proved why it is a cornerstone event for the social care sector, bringing together close to 2,000 professionals from across the sector. The event offered a packed programme of learning, leadership insight and meaningful connection.

Proceedings began the evening before, with the Caring Times Owners Club VIP Social Care Dinner, hosted aboard the Sunborn Yacht. 70 care owners, directors and chief executives came together for an evening of networking, discussion and celebration, followed by an overnight stay and a breakfast summit ahead of the main event.

On the day itself, delegates had access to more than 50 expert speakers and 64 exhibitors, spread across five dedicated theatres: Caring Times Owners Club, Leadership, Operational Excellence, Home Care, and the newly introduced Complex Care theatre. The addition of the Complex Care stream was a notable highlight this year, reflecting the growing importance and sophistication of this part of the sector.

Across the theatres, sessions tackled both strategic and operational challenges facing providers. Standout discussions included the Care Home Chief Executive Panel, which offered candid perspectives on leadership in a changing landscape; ‘The Barchester Journey’, charting lessons from large-scale growth; the Complex Care Leaders Panel; and ‘Women Shaping the Future of Care’, which celebrated the influence and impact of female leadership across the industry. Regulatory insight was also firmly on the agenda, with a dedicated Care Quality Commission session helping providers navigate inspection expectations and compliance with confidence.

Two new features added further practical value to the show. The Care Leaders Mentoring Scheme was launched at the event and was met with an enthusiastic response, connecting experienced leaders with those seeking guidance, support and long-term professional development. Alongside this, the Regulatory Clinics, delivered by Care Inspections UK, offered free, one-to-one advice sessions, giving attendees direct access to expert guidance on regulation, inspection readiness and improvement planning.

The event closed on a high note with a lively finale from 90s boyband East 17, as delegates enjoyed an upbeat end to the day, singing along to classic hits including festive favourite Stay Another Day.

Feedback from attendees reflected the show’s impact. Alyson Vale, director at Abbotsford Care, commented on the energy of connecting with peers who “get the daily challenges, the constant balancing act, and the deep love and passion we share for this sector.” Phil Haynes of Aria Care praised the opportunity to hear from inspirational leaders and absorb the wisdom of both familiar faces and new connections, while The Care Workers’ Charity described the day as “a perfect platform to learn, share and grow together.”

The Care Management Show returns this year with two major dates:

• 26 June 2026 – NEC Birmingham
• 27 November 2026 – Excel London

Looking ahead to June, organisers have confirmed an expanded programme designed specifically for senior decision-makers. Delegates can expect new show features, a further expanded Care Leaders Mentoring Scheme, and a significantly increased programme of specialist clinics, delivering practical, one-to-one support for leaders and owners on the most pressing business challenges.

These will include Regulatory Clinics, alongside dedicated Finance Clinics, Insurance & Risk Clinics, Law Clinics, and Tax Clinics, providing confidential access to expert advice on compliance, funding, risk management, legal frameworks and tax planning.

Enhancing the overall experience, a Great Gatsby-themed VIP dinner and overnight stay will take place the evening before the show, offering senior leaders a distinctive opportunity to network, share insight and build meaningful connections ahead of the main event. Together, these enhancements reinforce the Care Management Show as the event senior leaders will prioritise in 2026.

Book your 2026 ticket.