Kibble Annual Conference
A staple event in the calendar for those who support young people, shaped by young people themselves.
Kibble’s Annual Conference brings together more than 250 professionals in Glasgow to explore how we can improve the lives of children and young people. Our one-of-a-kind event spans residential child care, education, secure care, youth justice, trauma, child development and community support.
Our 2026 event focused on mental health and was chaired by Nicola Killean, Children and Young People’s Commissioner Scotland, placing young people’s perspectives at the centre.
“A young person’s file tells you where they have come from and what they have experienced, but it doesn’t determine their future, who they are and what makes them smile.” – Young person from Kibble and conference keynote speaker
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Email: communications@kibble.org
About Kibble
Kibble is one of the most prominent children’s charities in the UK and has cared for young people for over 170 years. Over time, Kibble has evolved in line with the ever-changing needs of young people and has become increasingly trauma-informed. The extensive list of services includes residential care, secure care, education and young workforce development, fostering and adoption, mental health services, community-based support and more.
Our long history and list of essential services put us in the unique position to host a major event for social services and the youth justice, education and mental health sectors. Known to be powerful, previously with a special opening from a young person, the large conference welcomes practitioners, educators and young people themselves.
“No one service is big enough to support a child or young person in isolation. We have to work together, share our learnings and recognise different expertise and perspectives that each sector brings.” – Mark Macmillan, Chief Executive, Kibble
Why Attend Kibble’s Annual Conference?
Kibble exists to give young people a chance at life and we understand this requires a collective effort. If you share our ambition of ensuring every child has access to the support, resources and love needed to thrive, our event is for you.
Hear from influential speakers, get fresh perspectives from young voices, join interactive workshops and connect with like-minded professionals.
100% of previous attendees would attend another Kibble Annual Conference
Welcoming all key sectors
Educators, practitioners, psychologists, therapists, government officials, decision-makers and all who play a role in the life of young people attend.
Young voices are heard
Young people lead the way, opening the event and sharing their own authentic lived experiences.
Acclaimed keynote speakers
Expertly chaired by Children and Young People’s Commissioner Scotland with keynotes speakers including Minister for Children, Young People and The Promise and Bestselling Author, Graeme Armstrong and more.
Workshops for every focus
Practical sessions designed for learning and interaction, which are relevant to schools, residential care, secure care, fostering and adoption, local authorities and beyond.
Join over 90 organisations
NSPCC Scotland, Education Scotland, Who Cares? Scotland, Children in Scotland and others meet to discuss solutions and act in the best interests of young people.
5-star event rated by attendees
Organisers use genuine feedback to improve the event every year, enhancing the value to you.
Watch Our Video
Feel the energy of the day as everyone comes together for captivating keynotes, thought-provoking workshops and inspiring exhibitors.
Reflect on Past Events
Young Voices Led the Conversation on Why Mental Health Matters at Kibble’s Annual Conference 2026.
Mental health took centre stage as young voices, lived experience and expert insight called on professionals to look beyond labels and recognise every young person’s individuality.
Over 260 of You Joined Us for Kibble’s Annual Conference 2025 in Partnership with Safehinge Primera.
Our annual conference returned to Glasgow with record attendance and a special opening from a young person, making this year’s event our most impactful yet. Read the full story.
Kibble’s Annual Conference 2024 Welcomed Over 200 People from Across the World for Learning.
Experience a day that sparked progress and helped motivate us to transform lives, families and communities. Continue reading about 2024’s event.