Gillian reflects on her evolving relationship with Leading to Change, sparked by a powerful presentation at a Scottish Care National Conference. As a leader in the Independent Sector, she embraced L2C’s flexible and inclusive offerings, ranging from bite-sized sessions to in-depth webinars, as both a resource for local providers and a personal development opportunity.
I first became aware of the Leading to Change (L2C) when Claire MacFarlane, Specialist Lead and Susan Nevill, Principal Lead spoke at a Scottish Care National Conference. It struck me that not only was there was a strong willingness for there to be advocates for leadership and support for the social care sector, L2C also has an acknowledgement of the pressures on the independent sector and the importance of accessible events, resources and training for social care staff.
As a leader within the social care sector, I saw L2C as not only a resource for my local providers but also a development opportunity for myself as Independent Sector Lead. I would regularly attend Community events, Leaderships Links webinars and Spotlight sessions.
Two standout events for me include: firstly the Leadership 101: Role Modelling Starts with Self in May 2023. This 90 min webinar was supported by a Connect and Reflect pack that was shared post session. This allowed me to take my learning to peer support sessions with colleagues. We then could discuss topic themes such as being a role model for the independent sector, exploring actions, attitudes and values. The second event was in 2024, when I was approached to support an in-person Scottish Social Services Council Supervisors session in Glasgow that L2C were also contributing to. I encouraged local staff to attend and participated on the day. This gave me the opportunity meet in person and connect with Claire, the Specialist Lead who I had heard speak at the Scottish Care National Conference.
It is evident that over the last three years the offer from L2C has adapted and responded to the needs of the health, third and independent staff groups. I find it to be an inclusive space for providers I support, which is very much appreciated and valued. I look forward to further opportunities to collaborate with L2C in the future. We need platforms like L2C that ensure the social care sector can support and nurture their leaders and future leaders. This ensures the ongoing sustainability of the sector.
This story is a condensed version of a full testimonial by Gillian, sharing her experiences of Leading to Change since its launch. We want to thank Gillian for sharing how Leading to Change has impacted her experience of inclusive, compassionate and values-driven leadership.
You can read Gillian’s full testimonial in our Leading to Change report: From Insight to Impact – Our Journey Towards Inclusive and Connected Cultures.
