‘There are decades where nothing happens and then there are weeks where decades happen,' is a saying that seems perfectly designed for our times. The last 18 months have been unlike any other, but without memorable milestones and events to provide definition, one day of emails and calls can blur into the next.

The Association of Directors of Children's Service (ADCS) annual conference in Manchester is a regular highlight in the calendar of directors of children's services, offering valuable space for learning and reflection. Earlier this month we gathered online for the second year in a row, inspired to provide collective leadership in understanding and addressing children's needs.