Health and Social Care Government update 2024

In 2024, the UK government introduced a range of updates in the health and social care sectors, focused on reform and modernization. One of the key changes is a significant increase in funding for adult social care, with an additional £7.5 billion allocated over two years. This aims to address workforce shortages, reduce waiting lists, and improve hospital discharge processes. There is also a focus on workforce development, with £250 million designated for training, including the creation of a new Care Certificate qualification to enhance career progression for care workers.

Digital transformation is another priority, with £100 million allocated to accelerate the adoption of digital care records, which could streamline services and improve care quality. By March 2024, the goal is for 80% of registered providers to adopt digital care records. Additionally, £1.4 billion has been earmarked to help local authorities improve market sustainability and reduce care assessment waiting times.

In terms of housing support, £102 million is being invested to help people remain in their homes through small but critical adaptations like grab rails and ramps, supporting independent living and reducing the need for hospital admissions. The government is also launching an Older People’s Housing Taskforce to explore how to provide better housing options for older adults.

These reforms build on the broader “People at the Heart of Care” white paper, which outlines a 10-year vision to improve adult social care services and increase the use of technology to enhance care delivery ​GOV.UK

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/build-back-better-our-plan-for-health-and-social-care