Category: General News

We hope this finds you well. Lots happening nationally currently, especially at the CQC. At this year’s conference on 3^rd December, we will be joined by CQC’s new Deputy Director for ASC in the southwest – Stefan Kallee, and Somerset’s Operations Manager, Paul Chapman.

 

News and Resources

CQC consultation – improving how to assess and rate providers.

We encourage members to submit their responses – due by 11^th December.

Project: Better regulation, better care | Care Quality Commission

 

CQC State of Care Report

Published 24^th October – https://www.cqc.org.uk/publications/major-report/state-care/2024-2025

CQC warns lack of investment in community services threatens shift towards care outside hospital – and risks ‘erosion’ of care quality.

Main headlines:

-Mounting pressures across mental health services

-Adult social care under strain

-Hospital discharge delays persist

-Primary and community care capacity challenges contribute to system-wide pressures

Also – Sir Julian Hartley is stepping down as Chief Executive of the Care Quality Commission (CQC) with immediate effect.  Sir Julian has made this difficult decision as he feels his current role as Chief Executive of CQC has become incompatible with the important conversations happening about care at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, including during the time he was Chief Executive there. Dr Arun Chopra, Chief Inspector of Mental Health, is planned to assume the role of Interim Chief Executive until a permanent successor is appointed.  Further information can be found on our website: Sir Julian Hartley steps down as Chief Executive of CQC

 

Shape the Future of Social Care – Share Your Workforce Data Today – (ASC-WDS)

We encourage your participation in the Adult Social Care Workforce Data Set (ASC-WDS) – the leading source of intelligence on our sector’s workforce. Your contribution is vital not only for your own service planning, but also for strengthening the voice of social care locally and nationally. The more providers use ASC-WDS, the better the understanding of the sector.

Why it matters for your organisation:

– Benchmark your service: Access tailored reports to compare pay, turnover, and vacancy rates with similar providers.

– Inform recruitment and retention: Use real-time insights to shape your workforce strategy and improve staff stability.

– Unlock funding and training: Many local and national initiatives use ASC-WDS data to target support — including access to funded training and development.

– Demonstrate compliance: Participation supports CQC inspections and evidences your commitment to quality and transparency.

Why it matters for the sector:

– Influence national policy: Data from ASC-WDS directly informs government decisions on funding, workforce planning, and reform.

– Strengthen our collective voice: The more providers who contribute, the more accurately we can represent the challenges and strengths of our workforce.

– Support fairer, more sustainable care: Your data helps build the case for better pay, recognition, and conditions across the sector.

Getting started is simple – and support is available. If you already have an account, please ensure your data is up to date. If not, you can register at https://asc-wds.skillsforcare.org.uk.

As part of the Care Association Alliance, the RCPA is working to build a stronger, more resilient care workforce. Your contribution matters.

ASC-WDS offers lots of benefits to providers, including:

• Access to funding for training staff​ (including Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training) through the Learning and Development Support Scheme
• Safe and free storage of staff records ​
• A place to store and manage training records​
• A benchmarking tool – allowing providers to compare themselves with local comparison groups on areas such a pay or recruitment and retention
• The ability to share data with CQC & local authorities ready for inspection
• Discounts and offers – through the ASC-WDS Benefits Bundle​

 

The ERB consultations have landed!

Today, as part of the Make Work Pay Plan, a number of public consultations on key measures in the Employment Rights Bill (ERB) have launched. These cover some areas of interest to the ASC sector, so we encourage members to respond.

The consultations provide an important opportunity to shape policy, and the Department of Business and Trade (DBT) want to hear from a broad range of voices. We in DHSC want to ensure that the adult social care sector’s voice is heard in this process and that is why it is important you contribute your views, thoughts, and questions on these issues as part of the consultation process. This will support our engagement with the relevant teams across government.

Here are the details of the consultations DBT have launched:

• duty to inform workers of right to join a union – closes at 11:59pm on 18 December 2025
  • These measures will a new duty on employers to give a written statement to their workers informing them of their right to join a trade union at the start of their employment and at other times.
  • This new duty will help to address an existing information gap by ensuring workers are better informed of this right and empower them to participate in collective bargaining should they choose to do so.
  • This consultation is seeking views on how this new duty can be implemented effectively while minimising the burden on employers.

• trade union right of access – closes at 11:59pm on 18 December 2025
  • These measures will introduce a new framework for trade unions to access workplaces physically, and to communicate with workers in person or digitally. The government is committed to ensuring any framework is proportionate and workable for unions, employers and workers.
  • This consultation is seeking views on:
    • how unions will request access
    • how employers respond
    • factors the Central Arbitration Committee (CAC) will take into account when determining whether access should be granted and on what terms
    • how the CAC is to come to decisions on the values of fines issued for breaches of access agreements

• enhanced dismissal protections for pregnant women and new mothers – closes at 11:59pm on 15 January 2026
  • These measures will make it unlawful to dismiss pregnant women, mothers on maternity leave, and mothers who return to work for at least a 6-month period after they return – except in specific circumstances.
  • This consultation is seeking views on enhancing dismissal protections for pregnant women and new mothers, including:
    • the specific circumstances in which the dismissal of pregnant women and new mothers should still be allowed
    • when the protections should start and end
    • whether other new parents should be covered by the protections

• leave for bereavement including pregnancy loss – closes at 11:59pm on 15 January 2026
  • These measures provide the right to unpaid bereavement leave for employees who experience the loss of a loved one, including pregnancy loss before 24 weeks.
  • This consultation is seeking views on:
    • eligibility criteria
    • types of pregnancy loss in scope
    • when and how bereavement leave can be taken
    • notice and evidence requirements

Here you can find information on each of the other measures in the ERB – Employment Rights Bill: factsheets – GOV.UK

Here you can find information on the implementation roadmap for the ERB – Implementing the Employment Rights Bill – GOV.UK

 

Immigration White Paper- Q&A and Immigration Rule Changes

Following the immigration rules changes to end overseas recruitment of care workers and senior care workers, the Home Office and DHSC hosted a series of webinars for providers. Following these sessions, the Home Office has produced a Q&A document which responds to some of the questions asked by participants at those sessions. This will also be uploaded to Capacity Tracker Resource Centre.

On 14th October 2025, the Home Office laid rule changes to implement measures outlined in the Immigration White Paper. A summary of the full changes is attached. The changes include:

English language requirements: from 8^th January 2026, new applicants to the Skilled Worker route will need to meet the increased English language requirement of level B2. This change will only apply to individuals making their first applications. Those who have already obtained a permission where they were required to show a B1 level, will continue to be subject to a B1 level requirement where they are seeking an extension on the same route.

Immigration Skills Charge: as set out in The Immigration White Paper, the ISC will increase by 32% from 16^th December 2025. The Home Office is hosting a series of Town Hall events until the 4^th November to provide an overview of changes. Links are provided in attached document.

 

Funding for OMMT

£11.98m funding announced to support delivery of the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism (Oliver’s Training) and is now available to claim on the Learning and Development Support Scheme (LDSS) digital platform. This funding is for adult social care (ASC) providers registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and for training completed between 1^st April 2025 and 31^st March 2026 eligible for reimbursement. The funding for Oliver’s Training is a separate pot to the overall LDSS funding already available for other training and qualifications.

LDSS guidance documents have been updated to include information on making claims for Oliver’s Training such as eligibility criteria, maximum reimbursement rates and evidence requirements. Please refer to updated FAQs which cover key questions around the funding for Oliver’s Training. As a reminder, to submit claims for Oliver’s Training, providers will need to:

• Be registered with the CQC as a provider of ASC services.
• Make sure their organisation has an up-to-date ASC workforce dataset account which can be set up here.
• Complete the Learning and Development Support Scheme onboarding form.
• Submit a claim once Oliver’s Training has been paid for and completed, providing evidence to demonstrate this.

Funding is only being provided for Oliver’s Training as it is the government’s recommended training package for CQC-registered providers to meet the statutory training requirement under the Health and Care Act 2022. Providers may choose to undertake an alternative training package,  which would need to meet expectations set out in the Oliver McGowan Code of Practice. On 13 November 2025, Skills for Care are hosting a webinar on Oliver’s Training  where DHSC will provide an overview of the Code and the support to deliver Oliver’s Training, and CQC will set out their expectations of providers. There will be opportunity for a Q&A.

 

Somerset Safeguarding Adults Board Organisational Abuse Summit.

09.30 -13.00hrs on 7^th November.

Please find attached details re an online event next week. This is open and relevant to care provider strategic leads.

Please follow the link:  Join the meeting now

 

RCPA Trusted Assessor service update

Following a successful bid via the ICB winter bid funding scheme, we are pleased to announce and welcome a new team member to the Trusted Assessor team – Angela Conway, RGN. Angela joins us from SFT Reservists and will support the service through winter pressures to the end of March 2026. Angela brings a wealth of experience in senior roles from both the NHS and independent adult care sector. We have seen our service develop from inception in late 2019, to a team of seven TAs (one team member currently on maternity leave), including four permanent TAs and three Reservists.

 

Events

Member Network Meeting – 5^th November

We are delighted to be welcoming Keara Bowgen-Nicholas, Senior Associate at RWK Goodman to our Member Network Meeting next week. Keara will be exploring the latest CQC State of Care report and the ongoing consultation with care providers about a new regulatory framework. The session will cover the main findings from the report, what changes are being proposed to the way care is regulated, and how providers are being invited to share their views. This is a chance to understand the direction of CQC’s approach and discuss what it could mean for care services in practice.

🗓 Date: Wednesday 5^th November 2025
🕐 Time: 1.30pm – 3pm

📍 Location: The Wyvern, Mountfields Rd, Taunton, TA1 3BJ

Please email us at admin@rcpa.org.uk if you would like to attend; this is a free of charge event for RCPA members and we would love to see you there!

Also joining us will be Daniel Dray, Deputy Head of Safeguarding at the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT), for an open and honest discussion about safeguarding, incident reporting, and the evolving relationship between care providers and ambulance services.

Our member meeting is an open meeting designed to foster mutual understanding and collaboration. You are encouraged to ask questions and share experiences. However, we kindly ask that no identifiable information about clients, residents, or individuals is shared, to protect privacy and confidentiality. If you would like to submit a question in advance, please do so by contacting Hilary Robinson hilary.robinson@rcpa.org.uk.

We look forward to your participation in what promises to be a valuable and constructive conversation.

 

THE Care Conference for Somerset, hosted by the RCPA – Taking the Lead

Bookings are coming in fast for our Annual Conference, so make sure you secure your place ASAP!

We’ve made it easier than ever to register with our new online booking form – and this year, we’ve reduced our fees to make the event as inclusive as possible.

This conference is open to all – not just RCPA members – so please do share the attached poster and programme with your Adult Social Care contacts across Somerset. We would love to see as many providers represented as possible!

Our 2025 theme is “Taking the Lead”, and we’re excited to introduce interactive tabletop discussions during the workshops – giving everyone the chance to engage and share ideas.

On a lighter note, expect a festive atmosphere as we approach Christmas – complete with a fabulous lunch, fantastic raffle prizes, and a touch of entertainment!

In the lead-up to the conference, we’ll be sharing spotlights on our workshops and speakers – so keep an eye out for our feature emails!

 

Upskill Your Health & Social Care Team – Free, Local Support

At Skill Up Somerset, we offer free, impartial advice and guidance to employers across all sectors, helping businesses find the right local training and apprenticeship opportunities to support workforce development.

This month, our focus is on the Health & Social Care sector. There are fantastic opportunities available for care employers who want to develop or retain their staff, including training in:

• Mental health awareness
• Dementia and end-of-life care
• Leadership and management in care
• Learning disabilities and autism support

Many of these programmes are fully funded or available at low cost, designed to fit around the demands of busy care settings.

There’s no pressure or commitment, just a friendly chat to explore what might benefit your team. If it’s helpful, we can connect you with trusted local training providers or colleges offering courses that best suit your needs.

To find out more or arrange a chat, visit: https://skillupsomerset.org.uk/contact-us/

Skill Up Somerset, Free, Impartial Training & Skills Advice www.skillupsomerset.org.uk

 

Digital News

Digital Care Hub Events

Identifying Critical Suppliers: A key to business continuity in social care

Thursday November 6^th 13:00 – 14:30. Click here to book

Cyber in Care: How much should you know?

Wednesday November 12^th 12:00 – 13:30. Click here to book

Green Code, Clean Conscience: Tackling AI’s Environmental impact

Thursday November 13^th 13:00 – 14:00. Click here to book

Caldicott Guardian Learning Network

Thursday November 27^th 12:00 – 13:00. Click here to book

Cyber in Care: The deep, the dark and the hidden dangers

Wednesday January 21^st 12:00 – 13:30. Click here to book

Cyber in Care: Resilience, Recovery & Incident Response

Wednesday February 25^th 12:00 – 13:30. Click here to book

NHS Cyber Associates Network – Beyond Phishing: The evolution of hacking humans

The Cyber Associates Network (CAN), which forms part of the NHS’s cyber security arm, hosted an NHS cyber threat analysis, Francis. Francis gave an insightful presentation on how phishing attacks are evolving.

The core of the presentation was that social engineering is still the primary weapon for phishing but with the use of AI, it has now become a more sophisticated landscape, making the traditionally ways of spotting phishing attacks less relevant.

 

Man in the middle attacks

A man-in-the-middle (MITM) attack, in its simplest form, is an attacker intercepting your data or connection, redirecting it or you somewhere else. An example of this would be you, the user, receives an email from your bank asking you to click on a link to log in, this email is a fake phishing email. Once you click on the link you are taken to the legitimate looking banking website but the details you enter will be sent in real time to the attacker.

There is a new and highly sophisticated version of this is called Tycoon 2FA which specifically targets two factor authentication. It is notable in that it can bypass 2FA. This attack works exactly as described above but with the additional step of being able to use the 2FA code that the user is sent and inputs.

Behind the scenes of this attack is an extremely complicated form of software that is using NHS.connect infrastructure. This attack is seeing a rise in data breaches within NHS.

This style of attack doesn’t have many ‘tells’ that users can be vigilant for. The best way to spot these is to check URLs that look suspicious and hyperlinks on the redirected page that don’t work.

 

Captcha attacks

Captcha is something that we’ll all be familiar with, being asked to prove that we’re human to enter a website by clicking on several images or answering a simple question.

An attack using Captcha is called click fix and sees the user inputting malicious code into the Windows Run dialog or terminal. The user will be presented with an initial seemingly genuine Captcha, like selecting buses, then a second captcha will ask the user to use keyboard shortcuts to open the Windows terminal and paste in the code that will deliver malware or a trojan.

This works because, as users we’re used to completing Captchas and many users are unfamiliar with the dialog and terminal boxes.

There is also a theoretical evolution of this that can use the Windows file explorer to achieve similar goals.

There are no simple ‘tells’ that users can be on the lookout for this style of attack. There are technical solutions to ‘lock down’ the terminal and dialog boxes but do require administration right and the technical know-how.

 

Deepfakes

Deepfakes use AI to create fake images, sounds, and video. In the context of phishing this is normally of people to try and gain trust and bypass security systems. Right now, we’re on the cusp of their capabilities and if you’re familiar with AI generated video and sounds, can be spotted. However, they are very quickly improving their abilities and becoming cheaper, lowering the barrier to entry. There have been many organisations and people that have fallen victim to phishing attacks using deepfakes, including a high-profile example of a UK-based energy firms parent companies CEO being impersonated (using AI voice) and stealing £243,000.

 

AI use in other phishing attacks

AI is also being used to help generate and review phishing messages, making them more believable and without the usual trappings of poor grammar and spelling.

AI can be used for ‘market research’. Asking AI to research an organisation, it’s mission, projects, leadership structure etc. This research can be done in the fraction of the time it would traditionally take, giving the attackers access to greater information about your organisation.

AI generated code. AI LLMs can be used to create code and scripts such ask malware and other viruses. Cyber security is increasingly seeing a rise in cyber-attacks as a service, where attacks buy malicious content from the dark web that can be easily deployed with little technical knowledge. Meaning the attacker doesn’t always have the knowledge to undo the damage they cause, even if a ransom is paid.

A separate style of attack that also tries to bypass traditional technical solutions is the use of QR codes within phishing emails. Directing users away from your IT infrastructure and to somewhere the attack can control.

 

Are there any solutions?

These more sophisticated attacks do present some real challenges. While there are technical solutions, the reality is that cyber security is playing catch up with cyber attackers.

For users, the best way to reduce the likelihood of being a victim of a phishing attack remains the same as previously thought. Recognise the emotive element to phishing attacks.

Authority: Is the message claiming to be from someone official? For example, your bank, a solicitor, CQC or a government department. Criminals often pretend to be important people or organisations to trick you into doing what they want.

Urgency: Are you told you have a limited time to respond (such as ‘within 24 hours’ or ‘immediately’)? Attackers often threaten you with fines or other consequences if you don’t respond quickly.

Emotion: Does the message make you panic, fearful, hopeful or curious? Attackers often use threatening language, make false claims of support, or tease you into wanting to find out more.

Scarcity: Is the message offering something in short supply, like concert tickets, money, or a cure for medical conditions? Fear of missing out on a good deal or opportunity can make you respond quickly.

Current events: Are you expecting to see a message like this? Attackers often exploit current news stories, big events, or specific times of year (like tax reporting) to make their scam seem more relevant to you.

If you have any specific concerns or would like to discuss this topic further, please contact daniel.plummer@rcpa.org.uk

THE Care Conference for Somerset – Only 7 weeks to go!! 

Bookings are coming in fast for our Annual Conference, so make sure you secure your place ASAP!

We’ve made it easier than ever to register with our new online booking form – and this year, we’ve reduced our fees to make the event as inclusive as possible.

This conference is open to all – not just RCPA members – so please do share the attached poster with your Adult Social Care contacts across Somerset. We would love to see as many providers represented as possible!

Our 2025 theme is “Taking the Lead”, and we’re excited to introduce interactive tabletop discussions during the workshops – giving everyone the chance to engage and share ideas.

On a lighter note, expect a festive atmosphere as we approach Christmas – complete with a fabulous lunch, fantastic raffle prizes, and a touch of entertainment!

In the lead-up to the conference, we’ll be sharing spotlights on our workshops and speakers – so keep an eye out for our feature emails!

 

Events

Member Network Meeting

We are pleased to invite you to a unique opportunity to meet Daniel Dray, Deputy Head of Safeguarding at the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT), for an open and honest discussion about safeguarding, incident reporting, and the evolving relationship between care providers and ambulance services.

🗓 Date: Wednesday 5^th November 2025
🕐 Time: 1.30pm – 3pm

📍 Location: The Wyvern, Mountfields Rd, Taunton

Session Overview:
Like ships in the night, social care providers may seldomly or frequently interact with ambulance crews, often under challenging circumstances. System pressures, delays, and staffing issues affect us all. But what happens when something doesn’t go quite right? Or when the ambulance service questions the care being provided?

This session will explore:

• Referral patterns from care homes to SWASFT
• Themes in safeguarding referrals and incident reports
• Communication and culture: how perceptions of care are shaped
• Expectations and misunderstandings between services
• Creating a culture of safety: “It’s not personal, it’s professional”

Daniel will also share insights from SWASFT’s safeguarding improvement work, including:

• Enhanced training and supervision
• Locality aligned safeguarding specialists
• Improved referral processes and data sharing
• Real examples of learning and positive change

A Safe Space for Open Dialogue
This is an open meeting designed to foster mutual understanding and collaboration. You are encouraged to ask questions and share experiences. However, we kindly ask that no identifiable information about clients, residents, or individuals is shared, to protect privacy and confidentiality. If you would like to submit a question in advance, please do so by contacting Hilary Robinson hilary.robinson@rcpa.org.uk in advance of the meeting.

We look forward to your participation in what promises to be a valuable and constructive conversation. To book your space, please email admin@rcpa.org.uk.

 

OMMT Training     

DHSC have now provided a means by which adult social care providers can be reimbursed for Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism.

The Adult Social Care Learning and Development Support Scheme is now open and receiving for Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism.

This scheme helps remove barriers to training by offering reimbursement for eligible courses and qualifications including Oliver’s Training which supports adult social care staff to deliver quality service for autistic people and people with a learning disability.

The funding operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so we’d encourage employers to explore what’s available as soon as possible.

Staff work tirelessly to support some of our most vulnerable people, and they deserve high quality training.

Visit Adult Social Care Learning and Development Support Scheme or the Skills for Care website for full details.

 

From our partner, Colin Mackenzie at Northbrook:

I’m working on a project to launch Skills Bootcamps in 2026, which will use government funding to support skills-based learning and development in care.

There are two bootcamps I’d love to tell you about:

New to Care – 100% funded

This bootcamp is designed to attract people who are brand new to the care sector. They’ll enrol on our course and receive in-depth training covering topics like:

• Values and Standards
• First Aid
• Moving and Assisting People
• Mental Health
• Dementia
• Learning Disabilities
• Medication Awareness
• Communication
• Care Certificate (Theory)

…and more.

The goal is to get people job-ready, so they can hit the ground running.

What we need from you:
Just your buy-in and no, not financial! We simply need your time. To access the funding, we need to guarantee interviews at the end of the bootcamp. That’s where you come in: we’d ask you (or someone from your team) to attend occasional catch-ups, meet the learners, and offer interviews at the end with the potential for employment if they’re successful.

Inspire to Succeed – Either 90% or 70% funded (depending on size of organisation)

This one’s for new and aspiring managers in care. It’s all about supporting leadership development and will follow the Leadership Qualities Framework. Topics will include:

• Leadership & Management Skills
• Regulatory Requirements
• CQC Fit Person Interview
• Policies & Procedures
• Audits & Inspections
• Effective Supervision
• Culture

…and more.

As with the first bootcamp, attendees should have a genuine opportunity for promotion or added responsibilities in their role.

What do we need from you right now?

Please email me at Colin@Northbrook.org.uk if you’re interested in engaging with either New to Care, Inspire to Succeed, or both. No contracts or formal commitments at this stage.

This is needed as part of the application so we can access the funding.

 

From our Partners

RWK Goodman

Please find below links to our latest blogs –

Sick pay reforms – top tips for health and social care providers | RWK Goodman

Recent Changes to the Immigration Rules Affecting the Care Sector | RWK Goodman

 

Optimise Workplace Wellbeing

Congratulations to our wonderful partner, Jo at Optimise Workplace Wellbeing, who is a Finalist for 2 awards; One is for ‘Trusted Supplier’ at The South West Care Awards, and the other is for ‘Innovative Business of the Year’ at the Sedgemoor Chamber of Commerce Awards.

Both award nominations have been based upon the work they are doing in the care sector across the South West, not least for the 8 module Leadership and Management Programme we have developed and delivered to 39 Individuals, across 14 different organisations based in Somerset.

Based upon the positive feedback they have received from this; they are excited to take expressions of interest for the next cohorts for 2026!

Exciting times!

 

Digital News

 

 

The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) annual review 2025

It’s time to act.

This year’s review puts into stark focus the need for UK organisations of all sizes to be aware and prepare for cyber incidents. Citing this year’s high-profile attacks: Co-op, M&S, Jaguar & Land Rover as examples of the significant impact a cyber-attack can have on an organisation.

“But any leader who fails to prepare for that scenario is jeopardising their business’s future”

The review puts heavy focus on senior leaders and board members, asking them to understand and appreciate the risk associated with a cyber-attack. This advice is not just for larger organisations but smaller organisations and your supply chains.

The NCSC Cyber Action Toolkit is a free service that can offer personalised advice for improving your cyber security. https://cybertoolkit.service.ncsc.gov.uk/. Reviewing and republishing your Data Security and Protection Toolkit (DSPT) will ensure you’ve reviewed necessary cyber security controls.

“Smaller organisations, or leaders in sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing, or education might ask “Why would cyber criminals attack us?” This reflects a behavioural theory called optimism bias”

The review also highlights the change in cyber-attacks with the rise and accessibility of AI. Which is being used by state sponsored attackers as well as less organised threat actors.

The full report is a worthwhile read and can be found here – https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/collection/ncsc-annual-review-2025

News and Resources

CQC updates and insights

We meet with the local operations team in Somerset on a quarterly basis, recently, this week. From 3^rd November, the inspection teams across the country will be sector specific with inspectors experienced in their field of expertise i.e. ASC, primary care, acute care etc. The Somerset team have been operating with just four inspectors for appx 280 regulated locations across the county. Priority focus is on services whose inspection dates are overdue, at risk of breach and requires improvement. They have now increased the team to eight inspectors thereby increasing capacity to catch up.

Insights from CQC –

• challenges with supported living services with one manager, across different locations.
• older style buildings that prove problematic to deliver services.
• undertaking one inspection per month per inspector, on average.
• very few regulated services have exited in Somerset.

Our next meeting will be January 2026. If you have anything you would like to share with other members/raise with CQC, please contact hilary.robinson@rcpa.org.uk.

 

PDoC and CoP

If there are any members caring for individuals with prolonged disorders of consciousness (PDoC), where clinically assisted nutrition and hydration (CANH) is in place, and need support to ensure care aligns with best interests, addresses the person’s individual needs and is within the legal framework, (recent COP judgment), please let us know. NHS Somerset can offer guidance around this.

 

Meeting with ICB/LA senior leads 10^th October

We’re due to meet with senior leads this Friday; anything around winter pressures and practical support required, please let us know – hilary.robinson@rcpa.org.uk. We’ll update you soonest following actions and progress from the last meeting.

 

Financial impact of the Employment Rights Bill

Raised at the last MNM – have any members calculated the cost of impact of the day 1 SSP rights? Whilst this is a positive move for employees, not to be underestimated- the impact of significant costs for employer. We encourage members to complete the following Care England survey, which closes 16^th October.  The government’s impact assessment labels social care as the sector which is likely to be most heavily affected by the largest policies in the ERB. But they have not confirmed how much this bill will cost to implement, and there is no sign of social care receiving the support required to make the changes manageable. CLICK HERE TO COMPLETE SURVEY.

 

At a recent MNM and following our bulletin – Supreme Court judgment which determined that “sex” as used in the Equality Act 2010 means biological sex and not gender identity.

Implications of the Supreme Court (2025) Interpretation of “Sex” as “Biological Sex”. We have approached SRG – our policy and procedure provider for specific guidance – and they have updated their policies to reflect this. Please contact admin@rcpa.org.uk for the latest.

 

DWP’s Findajob service

The DWP’s adult social care recruitment campaign – Make care your career – is live from today! They will be running advertising from now until March 2026 (although activity will be light in December) across video on demand, outdoor posters, radio, social media and online. They also have eight care champions who’ll be showcasing real experiences on social and a media partnership with LADBible, which will launch in November/December. The campaign encourages the  target audience (adults aged 18-39 in lower socio-economic groups with the right values) to apply for roles on their website.

How you can help – from the DWP

‘We would really appreciate your help in making sure the campaign is as successful as possible. Here are three ways you could support the campaign between now and March:

1. Encourage the sector to upload their job vacancies to Find a Job to maximise exposure of available roles during the campaign.
2. Cascade campaign assets to help to promote the campaign.  
3. Share our social media posts across your channels on Facebook and Instagram.’

 

Casey Commission update

We recently met representatives from the Casey Commission – Baroness Louise Casey is heading up the commission into reforms for the ASC sector.  Summary of discussion – the TORs will be in two parts -2026- 1) report with reform ideas and quick wins in the short term and 2) more visionary by 2028, a more wholesale look at what a national care service will look like in the future. They are keen to listen to people with lived experience, absorb information, ascertain a broad perspective eg housing and benefits linked to working and vice versa. In November there will be a roundtable discussion planned for several months with a cross-system debate. In 2026 a national conversation with the public is planned – what the public would like to see, what is possible, fair, and just. Looking at contextual factors in different counties. We have asked them to let us know when they intend to visit Somerset (have contacted them directly) as we would like to be at the round table in addition to any other discussions with sector stakeholders.

 

Call for evidence 10 yr workforce plan

The government has launched a call for evidence for the 10 Year Workforce Plan. The 10 Year Workforce Plan will build on the 10 Year Health Plan (10YHP) published in July this year and will set out how the government will deliver a new, sustainable workforce model in line with the three shifts identified in the 10YHP: from hospital to community, from analogue to digital, and from sickness to prevention. We encourage members to contribute to the call for evidence and share your insights. Your input will be essential to shaping a practical and deliverable plan for the decade ahead. The consultation will be open for six weeks and will close on 11.59pm on 7 November 2025.

Call for evidence: https://www.gov.uk/government/calls-for-evidence/10-year-workforce-plan Please also find attached a letter from Minister of State for Health and Secondary Care, Karin Smyth, inviting individuals and organisations to contribute to the call for evidence and help shape the 10 Year Workforce Plan.

 

Displaced workers and providers’ network

Following the event – 16^th September – queries raised:

With thanks to our sponsor, Kate Benefer/RWK and Rhian Lloyd/UKVI who discussed and agreed an interpretation of the transitional period and what this means for current care staff / providers:

One of the key areas discussed at the event earlier this month was how the transitional period works and what happens to those working as care workers when we get to July 2028. Kate Benefer, from our sponsor RWK Goodman has discussed the point further with Rhian from UKVI and provided the following clarification:

The new rules mean that:

• Anyone who wants to switch to a skilled worker visa under SOC code 6135 or 6136 must apply to do so by 21 July 2028. At the time the CoS is assigned to them for this application, they must have been working for the sponsor for at least 3 months.
• Anyone who is already sponsored as a skilled worker under SOC code 6135 or 6136 or who switches into this category by 21 July 2028 can continue to be sponsored and there is currently no end date for extensions. The current rules do not say that an extension application must be made within the transitional period, and the period currently only relates to individuals switching into sponsorship. The position will be kept under review however so an end date may be introduced in the future.

Under the rules as they stand today, this means providers do not need to worry about sponsored staff suddenly losing their right to work in 2028. It also means sponsors should be able to continue to offer roles to sponsored care workers moving from other sponsors beyond 2028.

***Immigration helpline***

RWK Goodman offers an immigration helpline service, funded by the Southwest Councils. The helpline provides up to 30 mins of telephone advice on any immigration query.

The helpline can be used to ask questions about areas such as sponsorship, the recent legal changes, assigning certificates, right to work checks or using the SMS. If you have any questions or just want to double check something, please contact the team at immigrationhelpline@rwkgoodman.com and someone will be in touch to arrange a call. (Members report the service has been invaluable).

 

Recent Press releases from the Department of Health and Social Care and NHS England:

• £500m for care workers through Fair Pay Agreement: In his recent conference speech, the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, announced a £500 million investment in a Fair Pay Agreement to boost the wages of adult social care workers across England. https://www.gov.uk/government/news/500m-for-first-ever-fair-pay-agreement-for-care-workers
• NHS online hospital to give patients more control over their care: In his conference speech, the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, announced the launch of a new ‘online hospital’ NHS Online. It will use an innovative new model of care by not being based around a physical site, instead digitally connecting patients to expert clinicians anywhere in England (published 29 September).

 

Members Network Meeting – please note, due to annual leave, there won’t be an MNM in October. Next, 5^th November, Wyvern Club, Taunton – SWAST and Safeguarding. Agenda to follow.

 

Training opportunity – please see attached – ‘Move More and Live Longer Better workshop’. An in-person workshop package has been developed by Somerset Activity & Sports Partnership (SASP) for workforces in the voluntary and community sectors, housing providers and social care around how to have meaningful and positive conversations about physical activity within their everyday roles. This session will be in person on Thursday 16th October 2025, 10am – 1pm at the SASP offices, Wellington.

For more information on the workshop content and to book your space, click below: https://www.sasp.co.uk/events/2025/10/move-more-and-live-longer-better-workshop31

 

Free Blood Pressure Checks for Care Staff – Part of the ‘Take the Pressure Off’ Campaign

High blood pressure affects an estimated 1 in 3 adults in Somerset, and many people have no symptoms at all. As a workforce providing vital care and support every day, care staff are at higher risk of raised blood pressure due to stress, shift work and limited time to access health services. As part of the joint Somerset Public Health and NHS Somerset “Take the Pressure Off” campaign, we are now extending our free workplace blood pressure checks to care providers across the county.

What we’re offering:

• On-site blood pressure checks for staff (quick, discreet and convenient)
• Advice and signposting for anyone with raised readings
• Printed and digital resources to help staff understand their risk
• Support to repeat sessions if there is demand

We have successfully delivered checks in a wide range of workplaces across Somerset, and we’re now keen to make this available to care homes, domiciliary care agencies and supported living providers.

This is a simple way to:

• Support staff wellbeing
• Reduce avoidable illness
• Spot early signs before they become serious
• Contribute to a healthier, supported workforce

If you would like us to visit your service, or to find out more, please email: andrea.osborne@somerset.gov.uk

Even a small number of checks can make a big difference – especially when so many people are unaware, they’re at risk.

 

Events

Members Network Meeting

Please note, due to annual leave, there won’t be an MNM in October.

Next meeting to be held on 5^th November at Wyvern Club CIC, Taunton – SWAST and Safeguarding. Agenda to follow.

 

THE Care Conference for Somerset, hosted by the RCPA – Taking the Lead

We are delighted to announce this year’s ‘Care Conference for Somerset, hosted by the RCPA’ which will take place on Wednesday 3^rd December at Taunton Racecourse.

Thanks to your feedback earlier in the year, we have made several changes to this year’s format, and we do hope you can join us!

We have pleasure in attaching the programme along with information about the day.

If you would like to book a place, please complete the booking form via this link – Booking Form.

 

From our Partners

Optimise Workplace Wellbeing

Mental Health First Aid Training (Level 3 Award in MHFA – accredited qualification)

16th and 23rd October 2025, 09:30-17:30, both days.

The Ibis Hotel, Bridgwater.

Lunch, refreshments and plenty of free parking included, as well as your qualification certificate

Cost £295 for RCPA members.

Contact Jo, for further info, to book, or to have a course overview sent to you.

07912 446261

jo@optimiseworkplacewellbeing.com

 

Digital News

Free Data Security Health Checks

How do you know that your data and cyber security is good enough?

You have already completed the Data Security and Protection Toolkit (DSPT) so you can be assured that you do meet those requirements, right?

During the Data Security Health Check pilot that ran across the Southwest, of the providers who had DSPT completed to Standards Met, only 1.41% went through the health check process without needing recommendations for improvement. The DSPT is a fantastic tool for helping providers meet their obligations for data and cyber security, the health check process can give you the confidence on completing it to a higher standard.

A Data Security Health Check is a no strings attached process that reviews and provides feedback on all aspect of data protection and cyber security. A cyber security technical assessment is also carried out to confirm basic cyber security settings on your Windows computers.

If you are interested in a free Data Security Health Check, please contact Daniel Plummer at daniel.plummer@rcpa.org.uk

 

Information Commissioners Office (ICO) takes action against care home

The director of a care home in Yorkshire has been fined for refusing to respond to a request for a residents personal data. This kind of request is commonly known as a subject access request (SAR).

The director blocked, erased or concealed records held by the care home with the intent of preventing the information from being shared. This specific case saw the daughter, with lasting power of attorney, request to see incident reports, CCTV footage, and notes relating to her fathers care.

After failing to share this information the daughter made a complaint to the ICO and the director failed to respond to the complaint. Ultimately being fined £1,100 and additional costs of £5,440.

Subject access requests are a fundamental right that everyone has in relation to personal data about them. As organisations, it is your responsibility to ensure you have a clear process in place to spotting and responding to SARs.

RCPAs Daniel Plummer recently attended the Caldicott Guardian breakfast club where the topic of AI generated SARs was a topic of discussion. Health and care organisations are seeing an increased use in generative AI, such as ChatGPT, by the public to formulate SARs. The output from the generative AI tends to be more complex than the person requesting is actually needing. For example, asking the organisation to see full audit trails.

How should providers approach SAR that have been AI generated? Every SAR must be responded to, but you can consult with the person requesting to fully understand what information they are after.

AI in this context should not be seen as a negative, but rather an opportunity for the public to access their data. They may not have known about what data they can see or how to ask for it. We as organisations need to ensure our processes are equipped to handle any data requests.

Full news story – https://ico.org.uk/about-the-ico/media-centre/news-and-blogs/2025/09/care-home-director-found-guilty-of-ignoring-request-for-personal-information/

For more guidance on SARs, please see visit the ICO – https://ico.org.uk/for-organisations/uk-gdpr-guidance-and-resources/subject-access-requests/a-guide-to-subject-access/

Digital Care Hub also have resources on individual data rights, including access to data and can be found here – https://www.digitalcarehub.co.uk/resource/staff-guidance-on-sars-individual-rights/

News and Resources

Follow up to MNM 24^th September

Thanks to those who were able to join the other day.

Please see attached flyer from UCR/HH/RR (CareCo Hub telephone contact/referral preferred 01749 836 700) – support ahead of Winter.

Discussion and issues we are escalating:

• Referrals for packages of care are reducing, disconnect with accommodation supply (supported living). Sourcing Care and referrals role and efficiencies. Highlighting the govt policy to get people back to work if NOK/carers supported- care provision is available but not being used, disconnect with agenda, prevention rather than cure, hospital to community etc
• Lack of SWs, access, and continuity (constant changes) slow decision making, reviews, disruption to flow of care and finances
• Barriers, need point of contact for finances at SC regarding f/u for late payments-(this in progress with SC)
• Late payments causing disruption/financial loss especially if disputed and changing to CHC
• Trying to stand still and challenges around offering a quality service with increasing operational costs, (innovation feels a distant aspiration), anticipating changes in Autum statement and impact.
• Reference checks for new employees-would members benefit from a standard template to help mitigate risks (Safeguarding)? More about this planned for one of the conference workshops.
• Work in progress with ICB/SC-** request to SC for early provider engagement meetings (ahead of usual Feb);** equipment policy-please contact carly.jackson12@nhs.net if you would like to be involved in shaping the equipment policy, work on this underway NHS/SC to prevent delays with issues around equipment i.e. it’s more cost effective to supply a specialist bed compared to longer hospital stay with better health and well-being outcomes, home first approach. We need more ASC champions! (Thanks to those who have already put their names forward-anyone from residential/nursing/OPMH interested?) The current policy is confusing and inflexible. **Economic support and advice for services who may be struggling requested;** point of contact in finances at SC requested;** ICB/LA would like to know if any of our members have suggestions around prevention of admission initiatives, generally what you need help with hilary.robinson@rcpa.org.uk
• Have any members started to think about impact of SSP changes with the proposed Employment Rights Bill?  We could do with some evidence to take to national discussions…

***Fire risk with ointments and creams -please look out for an important update in next week’s ASC bulletin around a recent serious incident.

 

Displaced workers and providers network event 16/9 follow up

Thanks to those who were able to join the event. Some important follow up info from Rhian Lloyd, UKVI, Qs around the cut off dates in 2028 etc.

Changes to the Care Worker route

The care worker visa route closed in May 2025, meaning that overseas care workers (outside of the UK) could no longer be sponsored to come to the UK and Work as care workers. From 22 July 2028 the switching provisions end. Anyone already in the UK who wants to switch into the care worker category needs to apply to switch by 21 July 2028, and must work for the sponsor for 3 months before the Certificate of Sponsorship is assigned. Anyone already sponsored from overseas to work in the UK as a care worker (under codes 6135 or 6136) can continue to be sponsored, and can move employer and can extend their leave, this does not end on 22 July 2028.

Also to add that switching will be kept under review, as the Immigration White Paper sets out and all applications are considered against the rules in place at the time -just in case a government changes the rules before 2028

Sponsorship enquiries

This is the main contact point for employers with sponsorship-related queries which was requested by several of the delegates.

• Email: businesshelpdesk@homeoffice.gov.uk
• Include in your email:
  • Sponsor Licence Number (if applicable)
  • Organisation name
  • Your name and contact details
  • Clear explanation of your query (include links or guidance references if relevant)
  • If asking about a worker’s application, attach a signed Data Protection Consent Form from the worker

Occupational Codes

Code 6135  (care workers and home carers) and 6136 (senior care workers) are the two roles affected by the closure of the care worker visa route.  Higher Skilled Work Health and Care workers (codes normally beginning with the number 2) that have a higher threshold remain unchanged. The occupation coding tool can be found at

https://cascotweb.warwick.ac.uk/#/classification/soc2020

Indefinite Leave to remain

Increasing the standard qualifying period for permanent residence (also known as indefinite leave to remain or settlement) from five to ten years, with some people qualifying sooner based on criteria yet to be decided.  Details on qualifying for ILR as the rules currently stand can be found at;

Indefinite leave to remain if you have a Skilled Worker, Health and Care Worker, T2 or Tier 2 visa: Overview – GOV.UK

 

Request to RCPA members from NHS Somerset ICB: Launch of Programme to Improve Annual Health Checks for People with Learning Disabilities

NHS Somerset is pleased to announce the launch of a new pilot project aimed at improving Annual Health Checks and Health Action Plans for people with learning disabilities in Somerset: www.hearmenowchecks.com

Developed in partnership with the General Practice Support Unit (GPSU) and Maldaba Ltd, this test-and-learn project will trial a new digital system designed to support the delivery of more person-centred care planning and improve access to health information and support. As part of this work, we are keen to involve registered care home managers, alongside other stakeholders, to ensure the pilot delivers meaningful outcomes and impact.

We believe that the insights and experiences of registered managers will be invaluable in shaping the approach and making the system practical and effective in real-world settings.

For further information please contact jenny.hallett6@nhs.net or for enquiries about the digital system itself, please contact Clare (clare@maldaba.co.uk) or Huw (huw@maldaba.co.uk).

 

DHSC announcements

Please find below a press release announced (24 September) NHS England has launched a new central recruitment website for NHS volunteers bringing health volunteering opportunities in one place for the first time.

Please find below social content for sharing on your channels as well as the link to the NHS Volunteering website:

Social content: Chief Nursing Officer, Duncan Barton, explains how the NHS Volunteering website will make it easier for people to find volunteering job. (X/Twitter) NHS Volunteering website: https://volunteering.england.nhs.uk/volunteer

Calling all domiciliary care providers:

We are a research team working alongside the Adult Social Care (ASC) group within the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC). We’re carrying out a piece of research to better understand the day-to-day experiences of ASC home care providers. We are especially focused on how data is collected and provided to various organisations, and what challenges and burdens these processes may cause. By participating, you’ll be contributing to meaningful research that will improve current understandings of home care providers and enable DHSC to understand what may benefit home care providers in ASC in the future. It is an opportunity to share the day-to-day experiences of home care providers, including things which may impact your ability to perform your roles, focusing on data collection and handling.  We’re hoping to speak to users who complete the Capacity Tracker as part of their role, to gain their perspectives, understand their needs, and their pain points between 29th September – 17th October. If you are interested in participating in the research, please complete this short screener.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss anything further, please do not hesitate to reach out via email to IS-DHSC@informed.com.

 

Events

THE Care Conference for Somerset, hosted by the RCPA – Taking the Lead

We are delighted to announce this year’s ‘Care Conference for Somerset, hosted by the RCPA’ which will take place on Wednesday 3^rd December at Taunton Racecourse.

Thanks to your feedback earlier in the year, we have made several changes to this year’s format, and we do hope you can join us!

We have pleasure in attaching the programme along with information about the day.

If you would like to book a place, please complete the booking form via this link – Booking Form.

 

From our Partners

Howden

How CQC ratings impact insurance premiums 

Navigating a Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection can be daunting – but did you know the rating the achieve could directly affect the insurance costs of your care home?

Listen to the first episode in our series of podcasts for care leaders as we provide guidance to help care home providers navigate the challenges of a CQC inspection process. We will then unpack the link between CQC ratings and the insurance premiums you pay.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• How CQC ratings influence your insurance risk profile

• The impact of delayed re-inspections

• Practical tips to prepare for inspections and improve outcomes
• What insurance policies care providers should consider to stay protected.

Listen to the episode to gain insights that could save your care business time, stress and money.

How CQC ratings impact insurance premiums

The Digital Care Hub secures funding for the Better Security, Better Care (BSBC) programme

The BSBC programme supports providers nationally and locally for the adoption and completion of the Data Security and Protection Toolkit (DSPT). Following a government procurement process, the Digital Care Hub team have been awarded the contract to continue the Better Security, Better Care programme for the next three and a half years!

A huge congratulations to the Digital Care Hub team and the work they do to support care providers.

 

Data Security Health Checks

A large part of the BSBC support will now focus on the quality of DSPT rather than purely compliance. Data Security Health Checks will move to become the core part of the local support offered to providers.

The health check gives providers a chance to understand if they are meeting the requirements set out in DSPT and where gaps are found, how to address them.

This is generally an in-person visit but can also be delivered remotely. Exploring how your organisation approaches data protection and cyber security, the health checks will also include a small cyber technical assessment that will look at a sample of your Windows devices and check if basic cyber security controls are in place.

If you’re interested in learning more about the Data Security Health Checks or would like to book a visit, please contact danel.plummer@rcpa.org.uk.

 

DSPT guidance update and new templates

Now that the 2025/26 DSPT is live and has incorporated new questions and updated others, Digital Care Hub have updated their guidance at digitalcarehub.co.uk and produced new templates to support providers in this year’s submission.

A new Privileged Access Agreement template will help you and your IT administrators ensure you’re compliant with the new DSPT question 4.3.1.

The new template for providers to help complete a Digital Asset Register is also available and can support you in completing the new DSPT question 7.1.1. It is worth noting that this new asset register shares a lot in common with the Information Asset Register that you will already be familiar with. You should be able to combine both the Information Asset Register and the Digital Asset Register into one document if you prefer. So long as you include all the relevant information to satisfy both DSPT question 7.1.1 & 1.1.2.

You can read more about the new guidance and templates here. Digital Care Hub will be exploring the changes to the 2025/26 DSPT in an upcoming webinar, see details below.

Any questions about the DSPT changes, please contact daniel.plummer@rcpa.org.uk.

 

Events round up

SW Regional Cyber Crime Units (SWCCU) Cyber Escape Room

The cyber escape room formed the afternoon session at the recent Displaced Workers and Care Providers Network event.

The escape room was an interactive game seeing participates bypass login credentials and security details. The escape room offered a fun way to interact with cyber security principles.

If you were interested in attending but were unable, or if you think your workforce would benefit from a similar session, contact Daniel Plummer at daniel.plummer@rcpa.org.uk to explore future events.

 

SW Regional Cyber Crime Units (SWCCU) cyber leaders conference in Taunton

This annual event brings together professionals working in and near cyber security, along with those who just have a curiosity about cyber.

The day focused on a high-level look at the state of cyber-crime and what large organisations have in place to mitigate malicious attacks. Keir P from the National Cyber Security Centre gave a compelling talk on how organised criminal groups are increasingly targeting UK organisations and what is being done at the national level to combat them and support affected organisations.

Peter Jones (cyber badger) gave an insightful talk about how large multi-national organisations organise and respond to cyber threats, recommending that there is no single security product that can keep you organisation safe, rather a comprehensive system is needed.

Andrew Joy (Nexus) spoke about the rise in AI scams and how they’re increasingly being used by cyber criminals. The core principles around cyber-crime have not changed but the delivery models are adapting to this new technology.

 

Upcoming on-line events

See below for a variety of online events hosted by The Digital Care Hub, including a new series on AI in social care and a brand-new policy building tool being developed.

• Beyond fall: How sensor tech is unlocking safer, calmer care

Wednesday 24^th September 14:00 – 15:30 Click here to book

• Skills for Care Registered Manager webinar: AI, Starting small, growing smarter

Thursday 25^th September 10:00 – 11:00 Click here to book

• AI in Social Care: Help or Hype?

Thursday 25^th September 13:00 – 14:00 Click here to book

• Caldicott Guardian Learning Network

Thursday 25^th September 12:00 – 13:00 Click here to book

• Pledge or Perish: Why tech must get AI right

Tuesday 30^th September 12:00-13:00 Click here to book

• New DSPT changes for 2025/26

Wednesday 1^st October 14:30 – 15:30 Click here to book

• Free policy builder tool for care – Build a BYOD policy

Tuesday 14^th October 14:00 – 15:00 Click here to book

• Green Code, Clean Conscience: Tackling AI’s Environmental Impact

Tuesday 23^rd October 12:00 – 13:00 Click here to book

News and Resources

Capacity Tracker

Capacity tracker window closes next Monday 15^th September 23.59hrs

 

At the last MNM – Supreme Court judgment which determined that “sex” as used in the Equality Act 2010 means biological sex and not gender identity.

Implications of the Supreme Court (2025) Interpretation of “Sex” as “Biological Sex”. We have approached SRG- our policy and procedure provider for specific guidance – and will keep you updated.

In the meantime, a CAA member has kindly shared the following suggestion which members may want to consider:

‘We will record the preferences of people receiving care (for a male or female carer) and assess if we can meet them without discrimination, considering the impact of any such requests on equality policies. If there are risks resulting in distress to trans individuals (as people receiving care or staff), offer gender neutral options if mutually acceptable, continue to monitor individual arrangements whilst balancing individual preferences and available staff resources, follow national guidance as it becomes available’.

 

Training at the new Somerset Health and Care Academy

In collaboration with SFC, the RCPA has been consulting with providers around the type of training they would like the Somerset Academy for Health and Social Care to offer. Based on feedback, a shortlist of courses and qualifications has been drafted. However, we now need to know what the demand might be. We would be grateful if you could spend a couple of minutes completing these surveys, detailing how many members of staff (if any) you would be willing to put through each course / qualification over the next couple of years.

• 2026/7: https://forms.office.com/e/DnHH10Wcv8
• 2027/8: https://forms.office.com/e/juR4sNM80S

The surveys will close on 30^th September.  Anonymised results will then be shared with academy programme delivery group (PDG) members to further inform the offer.  If you have any questions or need more information, then please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

 

North Somerset Care Show – Wednesday 15^th October 2025.

Calling all care workers, providers, personal assistants, unpaid carers, care managers, support workers, community groups, social care professionals, voluntary groups, and anyone who is interested in adult social care – this is your day!

North Somerset Care Show (PLAY ME)

Whether you’re on the frontline or behind the scenes, the North Somerset Care Show is designed with you in mind. Get ready to explore the very best products, services, and innovations that support and empower the incredible social care workforce of North Somerset. Discover tools that make your work easier, more rewarding, and even more impactful! The North Somerset Care Show is more than just a showcase – it’s a buzzing hub of inspiration and connections. From meeting fellow professionals, networking, sharing ideas, getting expert advice, chatting with local services and community champions, you’ll be uncovering new ways to elevate the care you provide.  Save the date, spread the word, no need to register or purchase a ticket.

Poster Invitation for providers (3)

 

DHSC news:

Government launches neighbourhood health services in 43 areas with £10 million funding. See the full list of wave 1 sites here and comment from NCF where social care needs to be at the heart of this approach: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/millions-of-people-to-benefit-from-healthcare-on-their-doorstep

NHS league tables launched across England to improve patient care standards.

 

Events

Somerset Displaced Workers and Care Providers’ Network – 16^th September

Date: 16^th September; 9.45am – 2.30pm

Venue: Edgar Hall, Somerton, TA11 6SB.

In collaboration with Somerset Council and our partners, the RCPA, www.rcpa.org.uk THE Care Association for Somerset, is pleased to announce the launch of a series of in person events, commencing with an inaugural session on 30^th September 2025 at Edgar Hall, Somerton. The purpose of these events will be to support care workers and providers who are engaging in the new processes around the government displaced worker policy which came into effect on the 9^{th of} April 2025. Whether you are an experienced sponsor/employer or embarking on your journey, please join us for this important event where you will have an opportunity in an informal and collegiate space to network, hear about stories and lived experiences, connect with displaced workers and exhibitors, share best practice with colleagues, ultimately shaping and securing the future for this vital part of the workforce.

For more information, click here. Please note, this is a free event.

To register for this event, please email admin@rcpa.org.uk with delegate names, dietary requirements, organisation name and which sessions you would like to attend.

 

RCPA Member Network Meeting (MNM)

Wednesday 24^th September via TEAMs

14.00-15.00hrs

Please contact admin@rcpa.org.uk for the meeting link. Agenda to follow.

 

Somerset Health & Care Academy Training Days – Hosted by RCPA – Oct & Nov Dates

Following on from the successful training events we hosted in March and April, we are delighted to be hosting additional training sessions for care staff in collaboration with the Somerset Health & Care Academy.

Choose from:

• Mental Capacity Act (MCA) and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) – FULLY BOOKED, can be added to wait list.
• Falls Awareness
• Dementia

For more information about each training day, and to book, please visit our website https://rcpa.org.uk/events/ or TO REGISTER CLICK HERE

Please note that we have limited places available, and we will confirm your booking upon receipt via email (please allow a few days for confirmation). If we are unable to offer you a place, we will notify you via email and add you to a waiting list. You will be automatically added to the LMS, but this does not mean you have been allocated a place on the training day – please do not take an email re the LMS as confirmation of booking for the face-face training.

 

SAVE THE DATE! RCPA Annual Conference – 3rd December 2025

The theme of the conference will be ‘Taking the Lead’

Taunton Racecourse Conference Centre, Taunton, Somerset, TA3 7BL

 

From our Partners

Howden

Major incident management: The importance of alarm systems

In today’s care environment, with vulnerable residents living in shared spaces, the duty of care that care providers need to offer has never been more important.

Effective major incident management begins with prevention. Understand why fire alarm and carbon monoxide detection systems are essential to your business – not just for safety but to also protect your insurance coverage.

Learn of these safety requirements here

 

RWK Goodman

Please find latest bulletin on ‘Sick Pay Reforms – top tips for health and social care providers’ attached from our partners, RWK Goodman.

 

Digital News

Changes to the Data Security and Protection Toolkit (DSPT) 25/26

The 25/26 DSPT went live on Monday September 1^st and has introduce two new mandatory questions, along with several new non-mandatory questions and a variety of other minor changes to existing questions.

The new mandatory questions are;

• 4.3.1 Have all the administrators of your organisation’s IT system(s) signed an agreement to hold them accountable to higher standards?
• 7.1.1 Do you have a digital asset register detailing your organisation’s hardware and software, which is kept up to date?

If you would like to know more about the new mandatory questions, non-mandatory questions and other DSPT changes you can email RCPA’s Daniel Plummer for free support and advice at daniel.plummer@rcpa.org.uk

Digital Care Hub will be running an online workshop to review all of the changes on October 1^st at 14:30 and you can register here. A recording of this workshop will be available on their YouTube channel shortly after and can be found here www.youtube.com/@DigitalCareHub

A more detailed breakdown of the new questions can be found in RCPA’s Digital bulletin which was sent out on 3^rd September, click here to read.

Changes to the Data Security and Protection Toolkit 25/26

In a previous Digital Bulletin, I said that it looks like there wouldn’t be any significant changes to the 25/26 DSPT. DHSC have just announced that there have been some changes to the existing questions including an additional two mandatory questions and several new non-mandatory questions, bringing the total number of questions in the Standards Mets DSPT to 45.

The 25/26 DSPT should go live on Monday September 1^st.

Digital Care Hub will be running an online workshop to review all of the changes on October 1^st at 14:30 and you can register here.

You can also message RCPA’s Daniel Plummer for any questions and support related to the 25/26 DSPT. Daniel.plummer@rcpa.org.uk

 

New mandatory questions

4.3.1 Question – Have all the administrators of your organisation’s IT system(s) signed an agreement to hold them accountable to higher standards?

Tooltip – The people within your organisation who are IT system administrators may have access to more information than other staff. Therefore, they need to be held accountable in a formal way to higher standards of confidentiality than others.

This requirement applies to IT system administrators working in external companies who support your organisation’s IT systems. This formal agreement could be part of a job description or a contract with your IT support company and/or systems supplier/s.

If your organisation does not use any IT systems, then ‘tick’ and write “”Not applicable”” in the comments box.

7.1.1 Question – Do you have a digital asset register detailing your organisation’s hardware and software, which is kept up to date?

Tooltip – The digital asset register is a list of digital devices (hardware) and computer software your organisation uses. The register should have been reviewed at least once in the last 12 months.

You can have a separate list of digital assets or combine it into one document with your Information Asset Register (see 1.1.2). An example digital asset register is available at: This will be available on Digital Care Hub soon, a link will be available via the DSPT website.

 

New non-mandatory questions

1.3.6 Questions – What are the top three data and cyber security risks in your organisation and how does your organisation plan to reduce those risks?

Tooltip – All organisations have risks and should be able to identify what they are. Thinking about your responses to all of the questions in the toolkit, consider which three areas carry the most risk for your organisation.

Provide a brief headline for each risk and say what your organisation plans to do to reduce that risk.

4.4.1 Question – The person with responsibility for IT confirms that IT administrator activities are logged and those logs are only accessible to appropriate personnel.

7.1.5 Question – Your asset register priorities assets according to their importance, and includes dependencies (such as power, cooling, data, people etc.) that support the assets.

7.3.6 Question – Are your backups kept separate from your network (offline) and secured from unauthorised access?

8.3.8 Question – Your organisation is registered for and actively using the NCSC early warning service.

8.4.3  Question – You identify and understand security vulnerabilities in your systems, such as through regular vulnerability testing.

 

Questions & tooltips that have had their wording changed but largely remain unchanged

The changes can be simple additions to the tooltip or rewording the whole questions.

1.3.1 – Tooltip updated that now expects your privacy notices to be available in a range of formats.

1.1.5 – The question has been reworded. Previously asking who has responsibility for data security, now asks: Your organisation’s approach to security is owned and directed by senior responsible individuals, with regular discussions driven by individuals who have overall accountability for security.

1.3.1 – This question around what data protection policies you have in place has been updated to ensure your policies align with good practice and (where applicable) national polices.

3.2.1 – The tooltip around the 95% of staff being data security trained now asks you to think about training methods to ensure all staff are reached by the training.

7.1.2 – The tooltip around business continuity now expects you to communicate our BC plan with other organisations and stakeholders.

7.3.4 – The tooltip around data backups now expects your plan to include which systems need to be restored and in what order.

8.3.5 – The question around up to date software now asks how this is done promptly.

News and Resources

***Winter scheme funding – deadline extended***

We recently circulated information regarding the availability of a small amount of funding to support initiatives to help build resilience into the system this Winter (attached). Due to the bank holiday and annual leave period, this deadline has now been extended to close of business on Wednesday 4th September. If you have any additional questions, please contact the UEC Team at somicb.urgent-care@nhs.net

 

Trusted Assessor Service this week and w/c 1^st September

The TAs are currently experiencing high levels of demand with a reduced capacity this week and early next and likely unable to respond to all referrals. To mitigate the situation, please can providers undertake their own assessment for ‘returning’ residents and share this message within your service. The TAs will do their best to support where they can. Apologies for the hiatus and thank you for your understanding.

 

***An update on the Oliver McGowan Code of Practice***

The link to register for the CPA/CQC webinar –  An update on the Oliver McGowan Code of Practice for registered care providers – is now live and open for registrations:  https://www.careprovideralliance.org.uk/cpa-events/an-update-on-the-oliver-mcgowan-code-of-practice-for-registered-care-providers/

 

Free Home Safety Visits

Devon and Somerset Fire & Rescue service offer free Home Safety Visits to vulnerable adults in the community. Are you a provider caring for people with the following 8 risk factors:

• Mental Health (Including memory loss)
• Poor Housekeeping (clutter/hoarding/blocked exits)
• Alcohol
• Smoking
• Drugs (Illegal/Prescription)
• Limited Mobility
• Living Alone
• No working detection

The above makes someone more at risk for a property fire, when any of these are identified, you are able to refer them for a free Home Safety Visit.

If you are already have a partnership code you can book a visit online here, Book Home Safety Visit.

If you don’t have a partnership code, you can refer under a third party or email Sarah House for information about becoming a partner, shouse@dsfire.gov.uk

If you are seeing risk in the community and are unable to gain consent for a visit, you can share operational risk information online, Partner Information Risk Capture.

If you have any questions about the Home Safety visits please contact Sarah House, Partnership and Community Engagement Lead for Somerset, at shouse@dsfire.gov.uk

 

DBS Checks: Can someone fail a DBS check?

What employers need to know, read uCheck’s latest blog here.

 

Events

Member Network Meeting

Wednesday 24^th September via TEAMs

14.00-15.00hrs

Please contact admin@rcpa.org.uk for the meeting link. Agenda to follow.

 

Somerset Displaced Workers and Care Providers’ Network – 16^th September

Date: 16^th September; 9.45am – 2.30pm

Venue: Edgar Hall, Somerton, TA11 6SB.

In collaboration with Somerset Council and our partners, the RCPA, www.rcpa.org.uk THE Care Association for Somerset, is pleased to announce the launch of a series of in person events, commencing with an inaugural session on 30^th September 2025 at Edgar Hall, Somerton. The purpose of these events will be to support care workers and providers who are engaging in the new processes around the government displaced worker policy which came into effect on the 9^{th of} April 2025. Whether you are an experienced sponsor/employer or embarking on your journey, please join us for this important event where you will have an opportunity in an informal and collegiate space to network, hear about stories and lived experiences, connect with displaced workers and exhibitors, share best practice with colleagues, ultimately shaping and securing the future for this vital part of the workforce.

For more information, click here. Please note, this is a free event.

To register for this event, please email admin@rcpa.org.uk with delegate names, dietary requirements, organisation name and which sessions you would like to attend.

 

SAVE THE DATE! RCPA Annual Conference – 3rd December 2025

The theme of the conference will be ‘Taking the Lead’

Taunton Racecourse Conference Centre, Taunton, Somerset, TA3 7BL

 

From our Partners

Howden

New Podcast: Supporting care workers & managing risk

What happens when those who care for others need help themselves?

In the latest episode of our social care podcast series, we are joined by Karolina Gerlich CEO of the Care Workers’ Charity to explore the critical challenges facing care workers — and why staff wellbeing must be a top priority for care providers.

A must listen for care leaders – listen here now

In the discussion we cover:

• The key findings from the Care Workers’ Charity’s latest Wellbeing Report
• How workforce wellbeing directly impacts operational and insurance risk
• What care providers can do to better support their teams and strengthen their workforce
• Future developments in the care sector and how to prepare for them

 

Digital News

Data Security Health Check – A free review of your data security

As part of RCPA’s support of the Data Security and Protection Toolkit (DSPT), the support offering is evolving to better serve the care sector. Alongside RCPA’s regular DSPT support, providers can now access a free Data Security Health Check.

The health check is a friendly non-intrusive process that will review and provide feedback on your data security. RCPA’s Daniel Plummer will visit you on-site and discuss the core concepts from DSPT but also Cyber Essentials and wider data governance. The visit will also include a technical assessment that will review your Windows cyber security for common vulnerabilities. Once the visit is completed, you’ll be given a detailed report highlighting the areas of strength and where any areas weakness is found, clear and simple guidance to improve.

If you are interested in a Data Security Health Check, please contact Daniel Plummer at daniel.plummer@rcpa.org.uk

We hope this finds you well and enjoying the sunshine, perhaps some time off. We have been mindful not to circulate a bulletin as frequently in the last few weeks, with many members and system partners being on leave, a general ‘slower’ than normal in relation to usual activity locally and nationally, MPs in summer recess etc. However, business as usual at the RCPA, conference planning (with a fresh new look) and prep for the Displaced Workers/Cyber event 16^th September, Academy work, amongst other! Some of our central team members are taking leave throughout August, with Dan, Project Delivery Officer on leave currently, RTW Tuesday 26^th August.

***If any members have news/stories to share and would like to post via our socials/website, we would love to hear from you!*** Also any events you may hear  of that may be useful for other members, please post on WhatsApp or contact admin@rcpa.org.uk and we can also share via our bulletins. Many thanks.

Please find a roundup of the latest…

News and Resources

Displaced workers and language/local dialect support

It’s not enough for displaced workers to have a good command of English-communication being most important factor in care -research has shown that understanding and using local dialects, idiomatic phrases-(‘I need to spend a penny’ being a familiar phrase!) with residents and clients is vital. (It is a key factor we considered in our wider support for displaced workers’ assimilation and providers). To this effect, we have been working to raise awareness with our national colleagues and pleased to bring an offer to our members. Please see attached further info and opportunity to join language training webinars from different specialist language providers/apps. Further information also available during the event 16^th September (Displaced workers).

Do you have any staff or service users who do not speak English as their first language or fluently? Communication is essential for building relationships, resolving conflicts, enhancing teamwork, and achieving success in both personal and professional settings. You can learn more about Language Training and Resources available for Social Care providers and staff across England at 13:00 – 14:45 on Monday 15^th September 2025. Guest Speakers include:

• Lingly.ai – Solutions to the frontline language barrier with Ai-powered tools that test and train real workplace communication skills
• Recruitmatch – A series of English language training for international/displaced workers to refine their understanding of the language
• English Unlocked – Supporting training staff whom English is their first language in how they can better communicate and understand those whom they may work or support who speak English but not fluently (understanding the impact of slang and idioms)

 By signing up for our webinar you can find out more about the Language Training and Resources available. There will be time for questions during the session.

Click here to book your place on this webinar!

 

EOL/ACP event

Craig Ford, Registered Manager of Baobab Care along with one of our RCPA team members attended an end of life/advanced care planning event earlier in the year and found it most useful; the same team is hosting a similar event in October.

Please find the link to register Introduction to Advance Care Planning & Somerset Treatment Escalation Plan Tickets, Tue 14 Oct 2025 at 10:00 | Eventbrite

Thanks to Craig for sharing this!

 

 VAT restructuring – the use of VAT Grouping within the care sector

Following recent resources and info, please see some info from HMRC attached. The attached should be read in conjunction with Revenue and Customs Brief (RCB)

 

OMMT funding and Code of Practice

Following recent news (from previous bulletin, the Code of Practice was laid in Parliament on 19 June 2025, and it becomes final on 6 September 2025), we understand there will be funding from this Autumn via the LDSS. Funding from April 25 to March 26 is currently being considered for reimbursement by DHSC. The RCPA is working with Somerset ICB as to how this will be implemented. In the meantime Skills for Care is hosting a webinar on 11^th September, 10am-11:30am to share an overview of the Oliver McGowan Code of Practice, which sets out how CQC registered providers can meet the statutory training on learning disability and autism appropriate to their staffs’ roles. You can register for a place here.

 

Learning Disability Nurse Research (For those members who employ LD nurses):

Research Brief

We know the numbers of Registered Nurse Learning Disabilities (RNLDs) on the NMC register has declined over the past five years (NMC, 2023a), we also know that many RNLDs work in social care and are choosing to lapse their NMC registration. Deborah Sturdy, Chief Nurse for Adult Social Care in England, has called for urgent research to understand why RNLDs are losing their professional identity within social care and leaving the NMC register. This study, ‘Exploring Learning Disability Nurses’ Perspectives on NMC Registration: Implications for Students and Individuals Living with a Learning Disability’, aims to address this gap. This research has full ethical approval from the University of Salford and if you want any further information, please email Vanessa on v.a.heaslip@salford.ac.uk

This research has two elements:

1. Survey for RNLDs who are currently, or have previously been, registered with the NMC see –  https://app.onlinesurveys.jisc.ac.uk/s/salford/rnld-questionnaire.

We encourage members (where applicable) to complete the survey – please drop us a line if you do, so that we can gauge support for this type of work for the future, many thanks- hilary.robinson@rcpa.org.uk

1. We are also seeking to interview (either one to one or in groups) RNLDs who have lapsed their registration with the NMC in the last 10 years. If you are interested in participating in this please email Vanessa at  v.a.heaslip@salford.ac.uk

 

SFC – Size and structure report

‘Just in case you missed it via SFC: Size and Structure report, in brief:

• The adult social care workforce continued to grow in 2024/25 despite a significant fall in the number of international recruits.
• The number of filled posts grew by 52,000 (3.4%) to 1.6 million.
• The vacancy rate fell to 7% – or 111,000 vacancies on any given day – which is back to pre-Covid levels.
• However, the growth in the number of filled posts was smaller than the previous year. This is likely to be due in part to the number of international recruits falling by 53% to 50,000.
• And the number of posts filled by people with a British nationality continued to fall, decreasing by 30,000 in 2024/25 (a decrease of 2.5%). The overall decrease in posts filled by people with a British nationality since 2020/2021 is 85,000 (7%).
• The sector is still likely to need another 470,000 posts by 2040 to keep up with the projected growth in the population over the age of 65.
• The turnover rate in the independent sector decreased from 25.8% in 2023/24, to 24.7% in 2024/25. Evidence from ASC-WDS data suggests that international recruitment may have played a part in this decrease, with the turnover rate for international recruits being around 11 percentage points lower than the turnover rate for people recruited from within the UK

We are also mindful that the domestic workforce needs protection and support, linked to the Fair Pay Agreement and that local commissioning arrangements reflect this.

 

Immigration Social Care Q&As – please see attached from the DHSC

 

Check your mobiles! National emergency alert test date – 7^th September

the announcement here

 

Social Care Nursing Placements

A new national strategy has been published to embed adult social care placements in nursing degrees. The strategy can be found on Skills for Care’s website. The move aims to encourage more students to pursue a career in adult social care and give them valuable skills in care closer to patients’ homes, as the government shifts care from hospital to community under its Plan for Change. The new strategy will embed adult social care placements into nursing degrees. Placements could be in a range of settings including residential care, supported living or home care, so that student nurses learn more about the prevention of ill health through early intervention.

 

Events

MNM (members network meeting)

Thursday 21st August 14.00-15.00hrs via TEAMs, please find below the meeting link and agenda

Meeting link:

Microsoft Teams Need help?

Join the meeting now

Meeting ID: 394 326 877 072 6

Passcode: VV6sR2ar

Draft Agenda

• What we’ve been up to at the RCPA
• Update and progress following ICB/LA meeting last week
• OMMT exclusive offer for RCPA members only
• Health checks request
• From our sponsor – RWK – topic TBC
• ICB – preparing for Winter, projects to support care providers (TBC next week)
• AOB from members?

 

Displaced Workers/Cyber event and BBC opportunity

Date: 16^th September; 9.45am – 2.30pm

Venue: Edgar Hall, Somerton, TA11 6SB.

We do hope you can join us on the 16^{th of} September. The final programme will be circulated next week. In the meantime, we have been approached by the BBC to see if any members have been impacted by the recent govt policy changes, possible staffing implications. The BBC is filming throughout August and will be editing the piece in September. If you would like to take part (‘15 mins of fame’!) please contact hilary.robinson@rcpa.org.uk

For more information about the event, click here. Please note, this is a free event.

To register for this event, please email admin@rcpa.org.uk with delegate names, dietary requirements, organisation name and which sessions you would like to attend.

 

SAVE THE DATE! RCPA Annual Conference – 3rd December 2025

The theme of the conference will be ‘Taking the Lead’

Taunton Racecourse Conference Centre, Taunton, Somerset, TA3 7BL

 

From our Partners

Howden

Please find latest information from our partner, Howden –

Blog link – Understanding Solar Panel Risks for Care Homes

As care homes across the UK seek smarter, greener ways to manage energy costs, solar power is emerging as a compelling solution. With over 1.5 million UK households already using solar PV systems, the care sector is beginning to embrace the financial and environmental benefits of renewable energy.

But alongside the promise of lower bills and enhanced sustainability come new responsibilities. This article explores the advantages of solar panels for care homes —along with the regulatory considerations, maintenance needs, and potential risks operators must navigate to ensure safe and effective implementation.

Podcast link – The challenges facing care workers and the importance of staff wellbeing

What happens when those who care for others need help themselves? Understand how care providers can ensure they prioritise staff wellbeing and what the risk and insurance impacts are when these initiatives are not put in place.

Hosted by Richard Lawson, Senior Account Executive at Howden Health & Care, our latest care sector podcast dives into the critical yet often overlooked world of care workers. With the expertise of Karolina Gerlich, CEO of the Care Workers’ Charity and Sabrina Meetaroo, Associate Director, Head of Risk & Claims Advocacy, Howden Health & Care.

We discuss the essential work that The Care Workers’ Charity does to support the social care workforce and the key findings from their Wellbeing Report published earlier this year. The conversation then moves to workforce wellbeing and the connection this has on business and operational risk.

Finally, we provide a summary of the future developments within the care sector and what providers need to continue to do to help their workers meet the complex challenges that they face.