Conference

OD in the NHS 2026: Confidence in change

Our Do OD conference is back for 2026, bringing together NHS OD practitioners to look to the future of organisation development with confidence.
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General information

Time
7 May 2026 09:30 - 16:00 GMT
Audience
Open to all

Speakers

About the event

OD in the NHS 2026 is a free, in-person conference for anyone working in organisation development (OD) or related roles across the NHS. 

Hosted in central London on 7 May, the event will create space for forward-thinking conversations and collaborative learning focused on shaping the future of OD in the NHS at a time of great change across the service. 

Delegates will be encouraged to step out of their day-to-day thinking and into an environment designed to spark inspiration, share insights and connect as a profession.


Agenda

A full agenda will be published closer to the event, but here’s a first look at sessions and themes that will shape the day:

  • The future of OD

    Dr Linda Holbeche, The Holbeche Partnership

    Rapid change, emerging technologies and shifting workforce expectations are redefining organisational development. In this keynote address, Dr Holbeche explores how OD must evolve from episodic interventions to a continuous, strategic capability, and what this means for NHS organisations navigating complexity, AI adoption, new operating models and workforce transformation. Expect a thought‑provoking, future‑focused session offering practical insights into the skills, strategies and mindsets OD practitioners need to thrive.

    Other mainstage sessions will include the role of self in complex exchange and an NHS-led interactive session considering the role of OD in neighbourhoods and future NHS systems.

  • Presence, awareness and human connection in OD work and beyond

    Emma Donaldson‑Feilder, Coaching and Occupational Psychologist

    An experiential introduction to Relational Mindfulness practices that help practitioners cultivate presence, compassion and courageous collaboration. This session explores how deeper human connection can support clarity, stability and confidence amidst change, as well as strengthen the effectiveness of OD and coaching interventions.

    Rethinking OD for AI‑enabled organisations

    Hailey McGlynn, Health Innovation Manchester

    Drawing on a real organisational case study, this session examines how AI is transforming culture, leadership and organisational design. Hailey invites participants to reimagine OD’s role in an AI‑enabled world and consider how practitioners can support ethical, people‑centred transformation.

    Relational and restorative practice: Doing things differently and better

    Carolyn Wright, Janette Thorpe and Sally Comber, University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay Trust (UHMBT)

    UHMBT shares its journey embedding restorative and relational approaches since 2022, from repairing relationships after conflict to building trust and compassion across teams. This session offers practical insights, examples and learning for Trusts exploring relational leadership and culture change.

    The system wasn’t built for us, so how do we change it?

    Kay Buhari and Bhavika Patel, NHS England

    Women of colour in the NHS are not lacking ambition or talent, yet progression remains uneven. This powerful, interactive session blends lived experience with OD insight to explore how identity, access and organisational systems shape career journeys. Participants will leave with practical tools and commitments to design fairer progression pathways.


New: Networking area

New for 2026, delegates can spend time in our dedicated networking area, a relaxed, open space for conversation, connection and community. Whether you work as a solo OD practitioner, are new to the field or simply want to expand your network, this space offers a supportive environment to meet others. Feel free to drop in between sessions, continue conversations sparked in workshops, or simply take a moment to connect with colleagues from across the NHS. 


Exhibition

A range of organisations and businesses in the health and care sector will join us to showcase support, tools and services available for OD professionals and NHS organisations navigating change. More details closer to the event.


Registration

Registration is free, but please only register if you're sure you'll be able to join us on the day. Places are limited to three per organisation*. 

Book your place


*Due to the popularity of this event, a cap of three delegates per organisation is in place. We will be in contact should an organisation exceed that.