VODG Finance Directors' Professional Network Meeting | September 2026

Join fellow Finance Directors and senior finance leaders from VODG member organisations for the latest meeting of the Finance Directors' Professional Network. This session will provide timely insight into some of the most significant policy, financial and operational developments affecting social care providers, as well as an opportunity to connect with peers and help shape future network discussions.

The meeting will begin with an update on local government reorganisation and the implications for social care providers. As councils across England continue to evolve, understanding the potential impact on commissioning, funding arrangements and strategic relationships will be vital for finance leaders planning for the future.

We will also explore the current pensions landscape in social care, including developments relating to a proposed social care pension scheme, key legislative and policy developments, emerging trends, and practical considerations for organisations managing pension provision in a changing environment.

The final presentation will examine the growing challenge of AI-generated employment complaints and recent employment rights developments. With increasing numbers of complex claims placing pressure on legal budgets, governance and operational resources, this session will provide valuable insight into the financial implications, organisational risks and key considerations for finance teams.

This is an essential event for finance professionals seeking to stay informed, anticipate emerging risks and opportunities, and engage with peers on the issues shaping the future of social care.

Speakers

Rhidian Hughes

Rhidian Hughes

Chief Executive, Voluntary Organisations Disability Group

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Alistair Russell-Smith

Alistair Russell-Smith

Consultant, Spence

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Laura Welchew

Laura Welchew

Partner, Trowers & Hamlins

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Draft Programme

14.00

Welcome

Kerry Hamilton, Director of Membership and Operations, VODG

14.05

Introductions

VODG Co-chairs

14.10

Local Government Reorganisation – overview of current developments and implications for providers

Rhidian Hughes, Chief Executive, VODG

14.40

The Current Pensions Landscape – social care pensions, Unison proposal, key watch points and future trends

Alisdair Russell-Smith, Consultant, Spence and Partners

15.15

Employment Rights and AI-generated Complaints – impact on legal costs, finance teams and organisational risk

Laura Welchew, Partner, Trowers and Hamlins

15.45

Future topics

VODG Co-chairs

15.55

Final round-up

Kerry Hamilton, Director of Membership and Operations, VODG

16.00

End

 

Accessibility  

Please note, should you have any accessibility requirements, we will do our best to make necessary arrangements to support you; however, we may require up to four weeks notice, so please list your requirements on the booking form. Closed captions are used as standard in online meetings. If you have any questions, please email [email protected].

Network Co-Chair

Alison Heustice

Alison Heustice

Director of Finance , FitzRoy

Nicola Ford

Nicola Ford

Group Director of Finance, Avenues Group

Richard Blakey

Richard Blakey

Chief Financial Officer, Royal Mencap