At AKA, we encourage our case managers to get involved with various events. Not only does this provide development opportunities to strengthen their expertise, but it also provides valuable networking opportunities that deepen their contribution to the wider rehabilitation community.
Throughout the year, we have attended many different events, and below are some of the development activities our team has taken part in during 2025, illustrating the breadth of learning that underpins our work.
Exploring innovative therapeutic approaches: Our team gained valuable insight into the role of neurologic music therapy through discussions between Catherine Watkins, one of our case managers a specialist at Chiltern Music Therapy. The videos created and shared on social media highlighted how early involvement of creative therapeutic modalities can support engagement, especially for younger clients, and enhance outcomes in complex neurological cases.
Strengthening multidisciplinary practice: Attendance at various West Midlands ABI Forum (WeMABIF) and South Yorkshire ABI Forum (SYABIF) events enabled our team to explore interdisciplinary goal-setting, safeguarding, communication strategies, and lived-experience perspectives. These forums reinforced the importance of collaborative working and consistency across the multidisciplinary team. One of our case managers, Jo Sims, is a member of the SYABIF committee and treasurer.
Enhancing support for families after brain injury: At the Ahead Together Conference, colleagues focused on how families navigate the impact of brain injury. The event combined clinical knowledge with personal narratives, helping shape more thoughtful, responsive support structures within case management practice.
Keeping pace with legal and clinical developments: National conferences such as the Adult Brain Injury Conference, the EMG Solicitors Annual Conference, and the Professional Deputies Forum provided essential updates on case law, neuroimaging, capacity, vulnerability, and emerging clinical research. These insights help us apply sound, well-informed judgment when supporting clients with complex needs.
Developing communication and behavioural change skills: Further events, including the Restful Rehabilitation Conference and additional UKABIF regional meetings, provided opportunities to explore topics such as sleep, nutrition, neuropsychology, and welfare reform. These sessions ensure our practice remains aligned with the latest thinking in neurorehabilitation.
Maintaining professional rigour through supervision: Our internal clinical supervision sessions continue to anchor our reflective practice. Discussions this year have included professional responsibilities around client disclosures, the balance between support and over-involvement, and forward planning for training needs.
Our team also undertook dedicated report-writing training to further strengthen the clarity and impact of our written communication.
As we move into 2026, we already have a full calendar of events we look forward to attending, both internally and externally. We will continue to attend these high-quality development opportunities, which will strengthen our sector partnerships and ensure that our team has access to the insight, skills and professional networks required to deliver outstanding case management.