The Confident Case Manager Seminar: Raising standards and navigating complex decisions in case management
On 11 June 2026, RWK Goodman was delighted to co-host its inaugural seminar alongside the Institute of Registered Case Managers (IRCM), The Confident Case Manager. The event brought together case managers, legal professionals and rehabilitation specialists to explore the future of professional case management, the importance of robust standards and accountability, and the complex ethical and legal challenges faced by those working in the sector.
The future of professional standards in case management
The seminar opened with an insightful presentation from Carole Chantler, Chair of the IRCM, who explored the organisation’s journey towards establishing professional standards for case management and its ongoing mission to safeguard the public through high-quality, ethical practice.
The development of a recognised registration pathway has been a significant milestone for the profession. Years of collaboration between leading organisations across the case management sector have helped create a robust competency framework designed to support case managers throughout their careers.
The IRCM’s Case Management Competency Framework recognises the wide-ranging nature of the profession, spanning health, social care, rehabilitation and vocational services. It provides a structured approach for practitioners to assess their capabilities, identify areas for development and demonstrate their commitment to delivering safe, ethical and high-quality case management services.
Why registered case managers matter
Carole also highlighted why professional registration represents a crucial milestone for the industry. Although many case managers are regulated through their original professions, such as nursing or allied health disciplines, those regulatory frameworks do not specifically oversee the unique responsibilities and skills required within case management.
The IRCM’s voluntary register aims to provide greater assurance for clients, families, solicitors, insurers and other professionals involved in rehabilitation and care. Through clear standards, ongoing professional development requirements and accountability processes, the register seeks to promote confidence in the quality and safety of case management services.
Looking ahead, further developments are anticipated, including accreditation of continuing professional development (CPD), educational guidance and progression towards accreditation by the Professional Standards Authority.
The Deputy’s dilemma: Balancing autonomy, risk and best interests
The seminar also featured a compelling presentation from RWK Goodman’s Divisional Lead for Injury, Tracy Norris-Evans, a professional deputy and recognised expert in Court of Protection matters. Tracy explored a challenging legal and ethical scenario involving a deputy’s decision to provide a client with pocket money where there was a risk it could be used to purchase illegal cannabis.
The case, Re E [2026] JR COO2, highlighted the difficult balancing exercise often required in complex rehabilitation and care arrangements. Professionals had to consider the risks associated with substance misuse, mental health deterioration and potential exploitation, alongside the individual’s autonomy, dignity, social engagement and overall quality of life.
Drawing on legal advice and the Royal Court of Jersey’s consideration of the matter, the discussion demonstrated that best interests decisions must be holistic and carefully weighed. The Court approved the continuation of a limited weekly allowance under the deputy’s discretion and with multidisciplinary team oversight. Crucially, the decision did not condone illegal drug use but recognised the importance of maintaining a proportionate, person-centred approach to care and decision-making.
To learn more about the role of professional deputies and how the Court of Protection supports vulnerable individuals, explore RWK Goodman’s specialist resources on Court of Protection and deputyships.
Case managing with confidence through collaboration and professional development
The seminar concluded with a fireside discussion on the importance of confidence in case management, highlighting how collaboration between case managers, deputies, legal professionals and healthcare teams can help achieve the best possible outcomes for individuals with complex needs.
As the case management profession continues to evolve, events such as this play a vital role in encouraging discussion, sharing expertise and driving improvements in standards and practice.
RWK Goodman is proud to support initiatives that promote excellence in case management and to work alongside professionals across the sector to help clients with complex needs receive safe, effective and person-centred support.
A huge thank you to Killick & Co for their generosity and hospitality in welcoming us to their stunning Mayfair offices for this special event.
Looking ahead, we are pleased to invite case managers to our next event, Legal Landscapes: RWK Goodman Session for Case Managers, taking place on 19 November 2026. We look forward to continuing the conversation and sharing further insights into the evolving legal and professional landscape affecting case management.
