Special Interest Groups

VODG has a broad range of professional networks providing vital support and information exchange among peers on a quarterly basis. Distinct to this are our Special Interest Groups, which are highly focused on particular topics and may be time-bound. Each has a specific focus and approach, co-designed by SIG members and VODG’s Leadership Team, to best suit the aspirations of the group. 

We currently have three Special Interest Groups:

Children and Young People

Across VODG’s membership, we have a significant breadth of expertise in delivering support for disabled children, young people and families and a shared wealth of knowledge on transitions into adulthood. We also have a national perspective on commissioning and the need to reframe discussions locally and decisions locally.

VODG members with an interest in Children and Young People’s provision, including unblocking the systemic challenges between children and adult services, have come together to form VODG's Children and Young People’s Special Interest Group. Currently the aim of the group is to understand the structural barriers hindering good transitions, explore impact, collaborative solutions and policy recommendations that impact disabled children and young people. 

Housing and Care Leaders

There is an essential and increasingly complex relationship between the delivery of care and support for disabled people, and housing provision. 

There are many points within the system where the critical interface between housing, care and support is under increasing pressure. This SIG brings together Chief Executives of organisations with significant housing stock to share current insights and shape shared solutions to system challenges. 

Current areas of focus for the group include funding, housing and care regulations, market trends and future supply and the vital role of not-for-profit provision in support of disabled people living the lives they choose.

Integrated Support Together with Residential Accommodation

This SIG brings together member Chief Executive and senior leaders delivering integrated health, care and/or education together with residential accommodation across one or more central locations. Services may typically combine health and care support with education, day opportunities, employment support and leisure. Many organisations in the group have long-standing roots. Some were established over a century ago – often in rural settings – and were historically described as “campuses” or “congregate settings”. Today, these services have evolved into inclusive, community-focused environments. 

Examples of recent activity include peer learning and developing constructive dialogue with the Care Quality Commission to inform improvements to statutory guidance, including Right Support, Right Care, Right Culture.

As the group moves into its next phase, members will work together to explore how impact is measured at both organisational and collective levels. This will include sharing outcome areas and key indicators and considering how a collaborative approach can be further developed to better articulate the role and value of these services across the diversity of the health and social care ecosystem.

Get Involved

If you are a VODG member CEO and would like further information about any of our SIGs or would like to join one of the groups, please do get in touch.