This month has seen a range of developments across adult social care, from leadership changes and policy direction to workforce pressures and innovation. Here’s a concise roundup of the key headlines. 

Ongoing pressures highlighted in latest BBC care coverage 
A recent interview with Baroness Casey, chair of the independent commission into adult social care, has again shone a light on pressures within the care system, reflecting ongoing challenges around access, quality and workforce capacity. The coverage reinforces the continued need for sustainable solutions across funding, staffing and service delivery. 
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Former health minister set to lead SCIE 
Former Labour health minister, Baroness Glenys Thornton, is set to become Chair of the Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE), taking over from Paul Burstow in June. The appointment is expected to bring renewed focus on best practice, evidence and improvement across care services. 
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Care providers call for relief amid mounting pressures 
Sector leaders at Care England annual conference have urged ministers to address what they describe as a “relentless attack” on care providers, pointing to ongoing financial strain, workforce challenges and increasing regulatory expectations. The call adds to growing concern around provider sustainability. 
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Celebrating excellence: Care UK Chef of the Year 
Care UK has crowned its latest Chef of the Year, highlighting the importance of nutrition, dining experience and resident wellbeing in care settings. Initiatives like this continue to showcase innovation and quality improvement at a service level. 
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New Neighbourhood Health Framework published 
The government has released its Neighbourhood Health Framework, setting out ambitions to deliver more integrated, community-based care. The framework emphasises prevention, localised services and stronger collaboration between health and social care providers. 
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Supported housing highlighted as ‘missing link’ in reform 
ADASS has described supported housing as a critical but often overlooked component of social care reform. Strengthening provision in this area could help reduce pressure on acute services and support more people to live independently in the community. 
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Sector response to visiting regulations review 
The National Care Forum has responded to the Department of Health and Social Care’s review of visiting regulations, emphasising the importance of balancing safety with residents’ rights and wellbeing. The response highlights the ongoing focus on person-centred care and quality of life. 
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