On the 27th February 2026, Coventry City Council held a Care Workers Engagement Event, which proved to be a tremendous success, welcoming hundreds of care workers through the doors for a day of support, advice and connection. 

With 30 stalls representing a wide range of organisations, including the Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise sector, West Midlands Police, Royal College of Nursing energy advice services, fitness organisations, modern slavery support services and trade unions, the event offered something for everyone.  

The turnout was so strong that sign-in proved a challenge, with a constant flow of attendees throughout the day. Around 15 British National Overseas passport holders from Hong Kong, who were attending a meeting in an adjacent room, also joined the event. 

High demand for advice and support

One of the busiest spaces was the room with Lifted, where Jenna from sponsor switch organisation Lifted supported more than 85 individuals seeking advice. Demand was so high that the team had to move into a separate room to manage noise levels and ensure meaningful one-to-one conversations.  

A powerful example of impact

There was a power example of impact and how these events support care workers. Amos, a previous attendee of St Francis curriculum vitae training, funded by the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services, was on hand offering curriculum vitae support to others, passing on the skills he had learned and helping many people during the afternoon. 

Partnership working and volunteer support

The event was delivered with fantastic support from partners and volunteers. Special thanks go to Lynn and Kate from Warwickshire for assisting with registrations while also running a stall; Karen and the church staff for hosting and supporting the day so brilliantly; and Valena from the Dementia Hub for helping capture attendee details. 

Opening the event up to become more inclusive

For the first time, the event was opened up to care workers who did not require visas, helping to create a more inclusive space and providing opportunities to gather intelligence around poor practice in organisations where United Kingdom workers may feel safer speaking out. The involvement of West Midlands Police and several asylum and modern slavery organisations added a valuable new dimension to the event. 

While the day was energising and impactful, it also highlighted the growing challenges facing many care workers, particularly around poverty and housing. These insights will help shape future engagement work, including the upcoming event focused on children and families.