CMSUK – discussing the future

Kate Sheehan, Consultant Occupational Therapist, reflects on the latest Case Management Society Conference and how its aims synergise with those of Adaptation Design.

The Case Management Society UK, in collaboration with The Society of Research in Rehabilitation, delivered an outstanding conference, Tomorrow’s World, on 17th and 18th March 2026.

The sessions offered a strong mix of practical insight, innovation, research and personal experience.

Crest IT was the main sponsor of the event. David Lees, Managing Director, spoke about AI and its impact on businesses, particularly in relation to data security. Following his session, I spoke with him about the use of AI in expert report writing and whether clinicians can confidently stand by AI-assisted work in Court. He is planning to reflect further on this, as he had not previously considered the implications.

For my first breakout session, I chose to attend one outside my usual area of practice and comfort zone: Neurofeedback in Action: Its Role Within Rehabilitation, led by Dr Maria Walters and Dr Melanie Dakin, Co-Founders of The Brain Collective. They explained how electroencephalogram (EEG), a safe and non-invasive technique, is used to interpret brain activity. Using real-time data, this approach can support clients to regulate their brain function. It was a fascinating insight into the brain’s neuroplasticity and its ability to adapt following significant trauma.

The panel discussion on the power of rehabilitation and the barriers to accessing the right services at the right time, was particularly thought-provoking. A key takeaway was the importance of clear and concise clinical reasoning to support a client’s rehabilitation journey.

Spending time with exhibitors was equally valuable. It was encouraging to see a growing number of occupational therapy-led companies emerging, all focused on delivering high-quality, client-centred services.

As an occupational therapist working from a client-centred perspective, I found it helpful to reflect on two particularly impactful presentations.

Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson shared her journey from elite athlete, winning 11 Paralympic gold medals, to her current role as a crossbench peer in the House of Lords. She spoke about challenging the narrative that “people like you can’t do that”, and the importance of finding allies who support success. This strongly reflects the role of case managers, who act as advocates for their clients, supporting them to achieve their goals and live the lives they choose.

Phillip Eaglesham, a former Royal Marine who contracted Q Fever whilst serving in Afghanistan, spoke powerfully about both his physical and mental recovery. He described his journey back to wellbeing, supported by his family, and his progression to becoming an Olympian. From an environmental perspective, his experience of fighting for essential adaptations to his home, and the time this took, was particularly striking. His words, “every day without an accessible home is a day of my life I will never get back”, resonated deeply.

Ensuring a timely, accessible home environment, whether rented or owned, is fundamental to effective rehabilitation. Without this, clients are unable to fully engage in meaningful activity, which in turn, limits the potential benefits of rehabilitation.

If you are a Case Manager seeking support regarding appropriate home adaptations for a client, contact our specialist team on: 020 8492 1617 or email info@adaptationdesign.co.uk