Firstly, Happy New Year to all!

Christmas, as well you know, is a challenging time for Care Professionals but as we move into January, it becomes increasingly important to maintain focus on the positives that entering a new year brings. Despite the already continually evolving landscape of the adult social care sector, 2024 promises to bring even more transformative change. Such adaptations will require resilience and collaboration which no sector knows better than care!

Regulation

The CQC’s new single-assessment framework was piloted in August 2023, beginning with 230 providers, and then moving onto increasing numbers of providers in the South in September 2023. By March 2024, the new framework will be available to all care providers.

Perhaps the biggest change from a regulatory perspective in recent years, it’s no wonder it’s all anyone can talk about. But sharing tips and experiences can be an ideal way to adapt and evolve to change. Keeping pace with such big changes is challenging but crucial for maintaining high standards of care and as the sector navigates through the new framework, it is an opportunity for providers to collaborate and adjust together.

Working Together

One of the defining aspects of 2024 in adult social care is the growing recognition of the imperative for collaboration. The complex needs of the individuals you provide for require a multidisciplinary approach that goes beyond the traditional silos that often appear. Care professionals, business owners, policymakers, and the rest of the care community must unite to create a seamless continuum of care. By fostering stronger collaboration, the quality of life for those in need can be enhanced and diverse challenges faced by both service providers and recipients can be addressed.

Technological Innovation

In this age of rapid technological advancement, the integration of innovative solutions is no longer an option but a necessity. By March 2024, 80% of CQC-registered adult social care providers should have digital care records. This is to streamline processes, improve communication, and provide more personalized care. Embracing these innovations is key to the success of their implementation and 2024 will be the year that sees the fastest and most positive advancement in use of digital technologies in care settings.

Mental Health and Wellbeing

2024 brings with it a continually increasing awareness of the profound impact of mental health on overall well-being, particularly in the adult social care sector. There is a heightened emphasis on addressing the mental health needs of both those receiving and providing care. Initiatives promoting resilience, emotional support, and mental health literacy are becoming more prominent, and allowing the sector to foster a holistic approach to adult social care.

Wishing you a year of resilience, growth, and positive change in the realm of adult social care.

Kind regards,

Molly Benson

Conference producer - Care Show London