Chris Watson

I have dedicated my career to transforming social care, ensuring that people who draw on care and support have greater choice and control over their lives. As the Founder of Self Directed Futures and Chair of SDS Network England, I work with individuals, families, professionals, and policymakers to advance self-directed support, innovative commissioning, and community-based solutions. My expertise spans stakeholder engagement, programme management, and local government, with a particular focus on Individual Service Funds (ISFs) and the broader shift towards personalised commissioning.

With over 27 years in social care, I have worked across both commissioning and provision. As a Joint Commissioning Manager for Learning Disabilities and Mental Health at Dorset Council, I developed strategies to improve outcomes for people with complex support needs. My consultancy work includes roles as an Associate Consultant at the Institute of Public Care and with organisations such as Colligo Labs, Peopletoo, NDTi, and the Down's Syndrome Association, where I help shape policy and practice at national and local levels.

Alongside this, I co-founded 360 Inclusive, a provider organisation committed to creating bespoke, person-centred support arrangements, ensuring that people can live fulfilling lives outside of traditional service models. Earlier in my career, I worked directly with individuals and families as a Life Planner with Lives Through Friends and I’m Out of Here Ltd, helping people design their own futures and build the lives they want. I am also a published author, contributing to books and key publications on ISFs, personalisation, and improving support options.