IT Management

Social Care IT Systems Must Meet Government Data Standards 

The Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC) urges social care providers to ensure their digital social care records (DSCRs) comply with national data standards. The Minimum Operational Data Standard (MODS) has been introduced to standardise data recording and sharing, aiming to improve person-centred care. Currently, 70% of providers have adopted digital records, but regional disparities and challenges remain.

The DHSC has created an Assured Solutions List of compliant DSCR suppliers, who must adhere to the DSCR Standards and Capabilities Roadmap. Providers are encouraged to choose from this list to benefit from enhanced data-sharing opportunities. The government has allocated significant funds to accelerate digitization and improve data management in social care, emphasising the need for consistent and efficient data practices.

Health Care Shortcomings

Failings in Care at Council-Funded Facility Lead to Patient's Death

The Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman reported significant failings in the care of Mr F at Charlton Court Care Home, arranged by North Tyneside Council. Mr F, who had a chest infection, experienced delays in medical intervention, leading to his death from pneumonia. The care home staff's refusal to assist him when he shouted and improper feeding practices further compromised his dignity and safety.

North Tyneside Council has acknowledged these failings, apologised to Mr F's widow, and agreed to pay £500 for the distress caused. The council has committed to reviewing and improving procedures to prevent similar incidents. Director Eleanor Binks emphasised the council's dedication to resident wellbeing and high-quality care standards.

Regional Disparities in Social Care

Massive Disparities in Adult Social Care Access Across Regions, Data Reveals 

Official data reveals a significant "postcode lottery" in access to adult social care, with wide regional and local variations in the proportion of care requests granted. In 2022-23, 58% of requests in England ended with no care provided, with rejection rates ranging from 46% in the North East to 68% in the West Midlands. The Care and Support Alliance (CSA) attributes this to councils "screening out" eligible individuals due to resource constraints.

The CSA and other charities argue that local authorities are rationing care because of insufficient funding and staff, leading to disparities in care access. They call for government investment in a long-term, fully funded plan to ensure equitable care. The recent decision by the Labour government to scrap planned reforms, including an £86,000 cap on care costs, exacerbates these issues, leaving many without the care they need.

Racial Disparities in Social Care

Scheme to Address Racial Disparities in Social Care Workforce Expands 

The scheme to address racial disparities in the social care workforce has expanded significantly, now involving over 50 of England's 153 authorities, up from 23 last year. The Social Care Workforce Race Equality Standard (SC-WRES) program collects data on nine metrics comparing the experiences of black, Asian, and minority ethnic staff to their white counterparts, and councils are required to create action plans based on these findings.

Last year's data revealed stark disparities: minority ethnic staff were less likely to be appointed from shortlisting, more likely to face disciplinary actions, and experienced higher rates of harassment and abuse. Despite the program's success, it lacks government funding, with Skills for Care calling for mandated and funded rollout across all local authorities by 2025-26, at an estimated cost of £500,000.

Social Care Reform

Social Care CEOs Urge Government for Immediate Reforms and Funding 

Social care CEOs from major organisations, including Care England, Homecare Association, and National Care Forum, have called on the government to address urgent issues in the sector. They demand increased funding, workforce investment, and parity with the NHS. The recent podcast highlighted the need for a radical rethink of social care as a vital contributor to the UK economy.

The panel emphasised the interdependence of the NHS and social care, urging the government to prioritise social care reform. They discussed the severe staff shortages and the necessity for training and development. The conversation also touched on the need for an industrial strategy for social care, with investments in technology to alleviate workforce pressures.