The Ripple Effect - Steven Russell

The Ripple Effect: Every Moment Matters

A Four-Part Training Course fo Social Works, Foster and Kinship Carers, and Residential Support Workers

About the keynote:

Every interaction – no matter how brief – has the power to create ripples of change in the lives of children and young people. This keynote explores the profound impact of small, intentional actions and how they create trust, connection, and hope.

Through the five ripple effects – Anchoring, Growth, Trust, Momentum, and Legacy – you’ll discover how to create lasting, transformative change, one ripple at a time.

Value and Takeaways:

Understand the power of small actions: Learn how even the smallest gestures can have a profound and lasting impact on a child’s life.
Practical tools for change: Gain actionable strategies to create positive ripples in your daily interactions with  young people.
Inspiration to lead with intention: Leave with a renewed sense of purpose and the confidence to make every moment count.
A framework for transformation: Explore the five ripple effects and how they can guide your approach to building trust through growth.

The Power of 1: One Person Can Make All the Difference

A keynote celebrating how one consistent, caring adult can transform a child’s life through presence, belief, and authentic connection.

The Power of 1:

One Person Can Make All the Difference

Connection Before Correction: Compassion Over Compliance

A thought-provoking keynote that reimagines behaviour through empathy, trust, and connection - putting relationships before rules.

Connection Before Correction:

Compassion Over Compliance

Making Sense of Absence: Overcoming Barriers to Belonging

A powerful keynote exploring how belonging, not attendance, is the key to engagement and lasting connection in schools.

Making Sense of Absence:

Overcoming Barriers to Belonging

Mixed Faces in Mixed Places: Finding Connection in a Disconnected World

A deeply human keynote examining how children in care navigate constant change - and how we can help them find belonging and identity.

Mixed Faces in Mixed Places:

Finding Connection in a Disconnected World

Preparing to Leave the System, Not the Care

A compelling keynote calling for care-experienced young people to leave the system without ever losing the care, connection, and support they deserve.

Preparing to Leave the System, Not the Care

“Steven reminds his audience that real change doesn’t come from labels or assumptions, but from relationships built on trust, understanding, and genuine care. His insights challenge you to reflect on your own practice and reaffirm why creating safe environments—full of people willing to spend the time building relationships—matters so deeply.”

Julie Boanas-Petitt,

Head Teacher NPQEL

“The ‘archaeologist of emotions’ is what came to mind after spending an hour in Steven’s company. His story lights the fire to inspire, promoting the importance of empathic connection and the power that consistency in relationships brings to a child. If you’re thinking of booking any training or motivational speakers this year, put this one on your list!”

Deborah Laurie,

Specialist Education Adviser for Children Looked After

“Steven’s ability to use his powerful personal experiences of care to enable people to think differently about forming relationships was on point. His presentation will stay with all of us in the room for a long, long time. Steven is not only a beautiful person but a beautiful presenter who fills the room with thoughtfulness and hope.”

Diane Hull,

Executive Director of Nursing, Nottinghamshire Healthcare

“Steven has brought real insight and fresh approaches, ripping the veil off mistakes schools make daily. His message might be hard for some school leaders to hear, but staff and students will thank you for bringing him in. Make the connection with Steven and make a real difference to young people.”

Simon Larter-Evans,

Founder, Life Narratives

“Steven’s approach is bold, pioneering, and profoundly human. He empowers care professionals to see the extraordinary influence they hold in shaping lives. Through connection, creativity, and courage, he demonstrates how even the smallest action can lead to extraordinary change.”

Victoria Banks,

Virtual School Head, Middlesbrough Council