Irish Aftercare Network Annual Conference 2026 in Athlone

The Irish Aftercare Network Annual Conference 2026 takes place at the Sheraton Athlone Hotel on Friday, 9 October, bringing together professionals and members of the Irish Aftercare Network from across Ireland for a day of discussion, learning and shared experience.

This year’s conference explores the theme Responding to Change, focusing on the evolving challenges and opportunities facing professionals who support care leavers. The event provides an opportunity to hear from leading voices in the sector, exchange ideas and explore practical approaches to supporting young people as they transition from care to independent adulthood.

A key focus of the conference will be the impact of social media on young people’s mental health, alongside discussions examining how policy translates into practice. Attendees will also have the opportunity to hear about lived experience and consider how the voices of care leavers can help shape services, policies and professional practice.

The programme will also explore legal and policy developments affecting care leavers, as well as examples of best practice from across the sector. These discussions will provide valuable insights for anyone working directly or indirectly with young people leaving care.

Running from 9am to 3.45pm, the conference offers a full day of professional development, networking and knowledge sharing in the heart of Athlone. It is an ideal opportunity for colleagues from different organisations and backgrounds to connect, reflect on current challenges and consider how services can respond effectively to a changing landscape.

Whether you are an existing Irish Aftercare Network member or a professional working in the wider care and aftercare sector, the 2026 Annual Conference offers an important platform for conversation, collaboration and learning.