SHiFT Brings UK Full Fibre Industry Together in 2026 to Improve Health and Safety

The SHiFT Group (Safety & Health in Fibre Telecoms), which was established to improve health and safety practices / standards across the UK’s fibre broadband industry, has informed ISPreview that they will be holding their 3rd annual (2026) conference on 23rd April 2026 at the Heart of England Conference and Events Centre (Meriden, CV7 8DX).

Apparently this year’s theme, “Maintaining Focus in a Changing Industry”, is intended to reflect the pace of transformation across fibre deployment and infrastructure delivery, and the importance of keeping people, safety and culture at the centre of that growth.

“SHiFT is about bringing the industry together to raise standards,” said Mike Jones, Vice Chair of SHiFT. “This conference gives us the opportunity to share what’s working, challenge ourselves where we need to improve, and continue building a safer, more supportive industry for everyone involved.”

Conference Highlights Include:

• Industry Leadership & Direction
  • Rob Kelly – SHiFT overview and industry direction.
  • Daren Baythorpe (CEO, ITS Technology Group) – A Senior Leaders perspective on health and safety.

• Driving Safety Culture & Performance
  • Podcasters the Health and Safety Angels giving an insight into Improving communication.
  • The Two Macs with a practical drama-based session on why safety culture matters.
  • Headline sponsor ProGARM on going beyond compliance and addressing real challenges in arc flash protection.
  • Bosch  discussing Innovation in internal service detection and building safety.
• People, Wellbeing & Real Stories
  • Jamie McGovern (CWU) – Simplifying stress risk assessments
  • Seema Flower (Blind Ambition) – Health, safety, inclusion and accessibility
  • Justin Manley – A powerful personal journey highlighting the real impact of workplace incidents
• Innovation, Expo & Industry Collaboration
  • Innovation Station featuring INCA, Mills Ltd, Smart Awards, Pro Safety Management, PQMS, TYSR and Springnet
  • Over 25 exhibitors showcasing the latest safety innovations, products and solutions
  • Supplier village providing opportunities to engage, learn and share best practice throughout the day
• Recognising Excellence
  • SHiFT Safety Awards celebrating individuals and organisations leading the way in safety culture, innovation and performance.

Any industry figures interested in attending can Register Here.