Posted on: 14 June 2026
Colleagues from across CNWL and partner organisations came together at The Ridgeway Centre in Milton Keynes on 11 June for the CNWL Therapies Conference 2026.
The event celebrated the work of therapists and allied health professionals from across the Trust, giving staff the opportunity to share learning, showcase innovation and explore ways to improve patient care. The conference featured keynote speakers, interactive sessions and networking opportunities throughout the day.
The conference opened with a welcome from Dr Ryan Kemp, CNWL Director of Therapies, before keynote speaker Dr Penelope Campling delivered an inspiring talk titled Why Kind People End Up Doing Unkind Things. Her session explored relationships in health and social care and the impact workplace culture can have on both staff and patients.
Throughout the day, delegates attended a wide range of sessions covering mental health, physical health, community services and learning disabilities. Topics included trauma-informed care, patient co-production, staff wellbeing, diabetes education, palliative care and improving access to services.
Many sessions highlighted the importance of working together across professions to deliver better care. Speakers shared examples of how teams had reduced waiting times, improved patient experiences and developed innovative services to meet the needs of local communities.
The afternoon keynote from Sally Lydamore and Sofia Venuti focused on integrated neighbourhood working in Camden. They shared their experiences of bringing together community teams and partners to deliver more joined-up care for local people.
A key theme throughout the conference was the importance of keeping humanity at the centre of healthcare. Presentations explored how compassionate, person-centred approaches can improve outcomes for patients while also supporting staff wellbeing.
Attendees also had the opportunity to visit exhibition stands from services and organisations across CNWL, including Library and Knowledge Services, the EDI and Coaching Service, and the Allied Health Professionals Support Workforce team.
The conference provided an opportunity for colleagues to learn from one another, celebrate achievements and strengthen connections across the Trust, reinforcing CNWL's commitment to delivering compassionate and inclusive care.