Social care funding in England is facing significant challenges, primarily due to increasing operational costs, demographic pressures, and financial constraints.​ Financial Shortfalls: Insufficient Government Funding: In December 2024, the government allocated an additional £1 billion for adult social care in England for the fiscal year 2025-26. However, the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services […]

Following the introduction into law of the Supported Housing Bill in June 2023, the Government has now launched the long-awaited consultation in preparation for its implementation. Stakeholders have been invited to submit their responses to the consultation here: Supported Housing regulation: consultation – GOV.UK with the consultation closing on 15th May 2025. Key areas being […]

As of April 2025, there is significant concern in the UK regarding the impact of proposed welfare reforms, particularly on disabled individuals, carers, and low-income households.​ Key Concerns: Financial Impact: The government estimates that 3.2 million families will lose an average of £1,720 annually due to the cuts, with 250,000 people projected to be pushed […]

On April 9, 2025, the UK government announced a new initiative to integrate advanced technology into adult social care, aiming to enhance care quality, support independent living, and alleviate NHS pressures.​ Key Technologies Introduced: Motion Sensors: Detect and alert staff when a patient experiences a fall.​ Video Telecare: Facilitates remote consultations with doctors and carers, […]

​The recent increase in employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs) has significantly impacted care companies across the UK, leading to financial strain and concerns about service sustainability.​ Financial Impact on Care Providers: Increased Operational Costs: Employers’ NICs have risen from 13.8% to 15%, with the threshold for contributions lowering from £9,100 to £5,000. This change means […]

An independent review conducted by IT expert Peter Gill has identified that the Care Quality Commission’s (CQC) technology failures were primarily due to a failed organisational transformation. The review found that while the regulatory platform and provider portal are salvageable, they require substantial development and rebuilding. Key Findings: Technical Issues: The regulatory platform and provider […]

A recent report by the National Housing Federation (NHF) highlights a significant crisis in supported housing, revealing that in the 2023/24 period, mental health patients in England spent a total of 109,029 days—approximately 300 years—stuck in hospitals despite being ready for discharge. This situation is primarily due to a severe shortage of supported housing options, […]

The Care Quality Commission’s (CQC) State of Care Report for 2023/24 offers a comprehensive assessment of health and social care services in England, highlighting both achievements and areas requiring urgent attention.​ Access to Services: General Practice (GP) and Dental Care: Access to GP appointments remains challenging, with the number of patients waiting over two weeks […]

ISL launched the How Far I’ll Go Challenge for clients and staff to encourage and to support individuals with their personal growth and goals. It’s not who does the most but who is the best that they can be. Alsager staff member Lizzie won the staff member of the year! Alsager client CR was Highly […]