At Together for Short Lives one of our aims is to unite children’s care professionals. We bring them together to share knowledge, equip them with the tools and guidance they need, and create ways to enhance the care these frontline professionals deliver. One of the ways we do this is through our annual Conference.
Through our online resource centre, our Family Support Hub, and online events, care professionals can access a wide variety of tools and advice to help them in their day-to-day conversations with families.
For nearly 20 years we have held an annual two day conference every year for children’s palliative care professionals and those wanting to learn more.
We do so because, by working together, we can all ensure that the care seriously ill children and their families receive is the best it can be.
What is the aim of the conference?
The conference is a one-of-a-kind event designed to bring together professionals to network, learn, collaborate, and shape the future of children’s palliative care. Together, we can build a resilient and connected sector that puts children and families at the heart of everything we do.
Children’s palliative care professionals face many struggles today with cuts to budgets and a growing number of seriously ill children who need our support. So we must work as one.
What takes place at the conference?
A busy and active programme awaits professionals who attend the conference. Organised by Together for Short Lives, care professionals will be able to attend a mix of plenary speakers, panel discussions, interactive workshops, and meet with sector exhibitors.
There are a variety of sessions showcasing the latest research and models of care so that they can take away practical ways to adapt them in their own workplace. These are presented by palliative care leaders from across the UK as well as students and frontline staff such as nurses and therapists from children’s hospices.
Additionally, there are opportunities to hear from parents themselves so that their voice is heard and so professionals can take feedback from the people their work matters most to.
Why is the conference important?
The conference plays a crucial role in equipping professionals with the knowledge, skills, and networks necessary to build a strong and sustainable future for children’s palliative care in the UK.
It is the “go-to” place, bringing leaders and practitioners together to explore innovative ideas, challenge current practices, and drive forward the strategic direction of the sector, ensuring that children’s palliative care continues to evolve and improve.
It is only by working together that we can create a future where every child and their family receives the best possible care and support they need when and where they need it.
What is happening at the 2025 Together for Short Lives Conference?
The 2025 conference is designed to address the evolving landscape of children’s palliative care, where increasing demand is met with more complex care needs. Our goal is to guide professionals in navigating these challenges through education, shared experiences, and collaborative service models that ensure sustainable, high-quality care for all.
Whilst the programme is written for children’s palliative care professionals, we welcome you to look through the two day programme below.