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PRESS RELEASE : Rollout begins on new Employment Support programme with £40 million boost to West London [April 2025]
The press release issued by the Department for Work and Pensions on 9 April 2025.

West London will today become the first of 47 areas across England and Wales set to receive dedicated five-year funding aimed at helping disabled people and those with health conditions and additional support needs into work.
- West London becomes first area granted funding as part of DWP’s ‘Connect to Work’ programme, which will ultimately support 100,000 people per year.
- The £42.8 million cash injection will fund five years of support for local disabled people and those with health conditions, and complex barriers to employment to find a suitable pathway into a job.
- Follows record £1 billion employment support package, announced by Work and Pensions Secretary last month, to unlock work for sick and disabled people, encourage financial independence, and boost living standards as part of the government’s Plan for Change.
West London will today become the first of 47 areas across England and Wales set to receive dedicated five-year funding aimed at helping disabled people and those with health conditions and additional support needs into work.

As many as 100,000 people a year are set to receive tailored support nationally – including one-to-one employment advice and skills development – as rollout begins of Connect to Work, a new programme dedicated to help those facing some of the greatest barriers to work.

Over the next five years, a partnership of Local Authorities in West London will receive a total of £42.8 million to provide targeted help to up to 3,500 people per year by:
- matching people with job opportunities that suit their needs and circumstances,
- providing essential skills training to help people get into and on at work,
- working with employers to recruit and retain disabled workers.
West London will receive almost £9 million of the £115 million already committed to run the programme in its first year – a downpayment on their full five-year deal, allowing local leaders to hit the ground running on tackling inactivity in their area.

Work and Pensions Secretary Rt. Hon Liz Kendall MP, said:

As part of our Plan for Change we are fixing the broken welfare system – getting more people into work, putting more money in people’s pockets, and putting the benefits bill on a sustainable footing.

The welfare system we inherited has shut too many talented people out of the workplace – with no support, no prospects, and no opportunities.

We are changing this. That’s why I’m delighted to see our Connect to Work programme kick off, with over £40 million of funding so local leaders in West London can give people in their area the tools they need to get in and on at work in a way that’s right for them.

The Work and Pensions Secretary is set to visit a community hub in Shepherd’s Bush to meet people already helped into work by West London’s existing support offer, including:
- Arman who had to step away from his job as a bookmaker due to his mental health. With support from West London Alliance Programme, he attended mental health workshops, got help to boost his CV, and found volunteering opportunities, before ultimately landing a new job.
- Midula who has learning and speech difficulties. West London Alliance Programme is improving her prospect of getting into work through tailored interview prep and giving her the confidence boost she needs to succeed.
- Bill who has been able to keep working at Harrow Council for 40 years, despite his physical heath deteriorating, thanks to adjustments made so he could stay in his job.
David Francis, Director of West London Alliance, said:

The West London Alliance Boroughs are proud to be at the forefront of the ‘Connect to Work’ initiative, demonstrating the strength of our partnerships and our dedication to improving employment outcomes for West London residents.

This programme provides vital and tailored support to those facing challenges in the labour market, helping them to secure sustainable employment and build better lives.

The Connect to Work Programme is one of a number of initiatives being launched to help towards the government’s aim for an 80% employment rate.

Work has already begun on the plan to Get Britain Working, with South Yorkshire becoming the first of nine ‘inactivity trailblazers’ across the country to launch their community-led effort to help people into a job.

This comes as the government unveiled sweeping welfare reforms – backed by a record £1 billion to deliver tailored job support for sick and disabled people – opening doors to opportunity, giving people a chance at financial independence, and boosting living standards, as part of the government’s Plan for Change.

With 2.8 million people out of work due to ill-health – one of the highest rates in the G7 – the government is also combating health-related inactivity at its root by investing £26 billion in the NHS and delivering 2 million extra appointments to reduce medical waiting lists, giving people and the economy a chance to get back on track.

Additional Information:
- The West London Alliance Partnership covers Ealing, Barnet, Harrow, Hillingdon, Brent, Hammersmith and Fulham, and Hounslow Local Authorities. Their Connect to Work service will be delivered under contract by Shaw Trust.
- The West Midlands and Greater Manchester Combined Authorities received a year’s funding for employment support as part of their Integrated Settlements – giving Mayors the power to make funding decisions in their area.
- Guidance issued on 26 November 2024 invited areas covering all of England and Wales to develop their plans to deliver Connect to Work over the next 5 years. Last autumn’s Spending Review confirmed £115 million for year 1 (25/26), subsequent funding for the programme will be confirmed through Spending Review 2025.
- Biggest shake up to welfare system in a generation to get Britain working – GOV.UK
- Integrated Settlements for Mayoral Combined Authorities – GOV.UK
April 10, 2025
NEWS STORY : Government Distributes Over £35 Million in Cold Weather Payments During Harsh Winter

STORY

The UK government has provided substantial financial support to vulnerable households during the recent winter, issuing over 1.4 million Cold Weather Payments totalling approximately £35 million in England and Wales. These payments were made between November 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025, in response to severe cold spells where average temperatures were recorded or forecasted at or below 0°C for seven consecutive days. Eligible recipients received £25 for each qualifying cold period.

A significant portion of this aid, around £9 million, benefited approximately 385,000 pensioners receiving Pension Credit. This initiative aligns with the government’s ongoing efforts to support low-income pensioners, which has resulted in about 50,000 additional Pension Credit awards since the summer—a 64% increase compared to the same period last year.

Minister for Pensions, Torsten Bell, emphasised the government’s commitment to assisting vulnerable populations, stating:

“We supported millions of households this winter through Pension Credit and Cold Weather Payments, alongside extending the Household Support Fund and the Warm Home Discount. For pensioners, this will have come on top of the State Pension, which is set to increase by up to £1,900 over this parliament for millions, thanks to our commitment to the Triple Lock.”

In addition to Cold Weather Payments, the government has extended the Household Support Fund from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026, providing further assistance with essentials such as food, heating, and bills. Working-age individuals receiving qualifying benefits, including Universal Credit and Jobseeker’s Allowance, may also be eligible for Cold Weather Payments if they meet specific criteria related to employment status, health conditions, and caregiving responsibilities.

April 10, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Over £35 million in Cold Weather Payments support paid this winter [April 2025]
The press release issued by the Department for Work and Pensions on 9 April 2025.
- Over 1.4 million Cold Weather Payments were made this past winter.
- This represents around £35 million in support, in addition to other benefits.
- Over £9 million of this was issued to those in receipt of Pension Credit.
Over 1.4 million Cold Weather Payments – worth around £35 million in total – were paid this past winter to people in England and Wales, according to statistics released today [09 April].

Cold Weather Payments are issued to vulnerable households when the average temperature in their local area is recorded as, or forecast to be, 0°C or below over seven consecutive days.

Those eligible received £25 for each seven-day period of very cold weather between 1 November 2024 and 31 March 2025.

Of those who received a Cold Weather Payment, 385,000 were also in receipt of Pension Credit – equating to around £9 million.

It comes as the government’s drive to support low-income pensioners has led to around 50,000 extra Pension Credit awards since the summer – an increase of 64% compared to the same period last year.

Minister for Pensions Torsten Bell said:

We supported millions of households this winter through Pension Credit and Cold Weather Payments, alongside extending the Household Support Fund and the Warm Home Discount.

For pensioners, this will have come on top of the State Pension which is set to increase by up to £1,900 over this parliament for millions, thanks to our commitment to the Triple Lock.

Pensioners who receive Pension Credit automatically qualify for Cold Weather Payments. This is alongside extra support available such as the Household Support Fund, which was extended from 1 April 2025 until 31 March 2026, providing support with the cost of essentials such as food, heating and bills.

Working age people who receive qualifying benefits such as Universal Credit and Jobseeker’s Allowance can also receive a Cold Weather Payment if they meet further criteria relating to employment, health conditions and caring responsibilities for young children or a disabled child.

Additional Information
- A breakdown of Cold Weather Payments issued can be found on GOV.UK: Cold Weather Payment estimates: 2024 to 2025 – GOV.UK
- There have been an estimated 1,402,000 Cold Weather Payments in the year 2024/25.
- There have been an estimated 220,000 more Cold Weather Payments in 2024/25 compared to the 2023/24 season, including an additional 21,000 to those receiving Pension Credit.
- Eligibility criteria for Cold Weather Payments can be found on GOV.UK: Cold Weather Payment: Eligibility – GOV.UK
April 10, 2025
NEWS STORY : US President Bows to Pressure in Embarrassing Tariff U-Turn, Stirring Relief Across UK and EU

STORY

In a dramatic reversal that has raised eyebrows on both sides of the Atlantic, the President of the United States has performed a humiliating U-turn on recently announced tariffs, sparking widespread relief among officials in the UK and European Union. Just weeks after the White House unveiled a series of aggressive tariffs on key European exports, including steel, agricultural goods, and luxury items, the administration has now scrapped the measures entirely, citing the need for “recalibrated cooperation with allies.” The reversal comes after fierce diplomatic pressure, coordinated retaliation threats, and rising alarm from American industries caught in the crossfire.

European leaders wasted no time in responding. A senior EU diplomat, speaking on condition of anonymity, described the U-turn as “a necessary correction to a deeply misguided policy” and a “welcome return to reason.” In the UK, government insiders privately characterised the move as “a climbdown dressed in diplomatic waffle,” with one official joking that the White House “had gone from tariffs to tea and sympathy.”

The now-abandoned tariff plan had triggered weeks of tense negotiations and mounting transatlantic tension, with Brussels preparing a counter-package targeting American tech, whiskey, and motorbikes. The UK had also indicated it was ready to align with EU action, despite post-Brexit sensitivities. British trade officials say the tariff reversal is a vindication of a firm but measured diplomatic approach. “We made clear that unjustified tariffs on British products would not go unanswered,” one source said. “It’s encouraging that common sense has prevailed, even if it took a bruising for it to happen.”

For many in Europe, the episode has also reinforced concerns about the unpredictability of US trade policy under the current administration. “We’re pleased with the outcome,” said a spokesperson for the European Commission, “but the initial decision did serious damage to trust. We need more stability, not less, in global trade.”

American industry groups had lobbied intensely against the tariffs, warning of price spikes and job losses. Their pressure, combined with the diplomatic backlash, ultimately forced the President’s hand—though the administration has portrayed the shift as a strategic pause rather than a full retreat. Still, for observers in London, Brussels, and beyond, the optics are hard to ignore. As one EU official dryly remarked, “They came in swinging, and they left with a handshake. That tells you everything you need to know.”

April 10, 2025
NEWS FROM 100 YEARS AGO : 7 March 1925

7 MARCH 1925

The House of Commons, discussing the second reading of Mr Macquisten’s Political Levy Bill, listened to an impressive speech by the Prime Minister, who submitted an amendment expressing the view that a measure of such importance should not take the form of a private member’s Bill. The amendment was carried by 325 votes to 153.

The Rent and Mortgage Interest (Restriction Continuation) Bill was introduced by the Minister of Health in the House of Commons, and read a first time. Second readings were given to the Clydebank Burgh Extension, &c., Bill and the Renfrew Burgh Bill, and the Lords’ Amendments to the West Lothian (Bathgate District) Water Order Confirmation Bill were accepted.

Mr Austen Chamberlain, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, arrived in Paris. After dinner at the British Embassy, he discussed there with M. Herriot, the French Premier, the various current questions.

Mr Austen Chamberlain has been selected by the Unionist Association of Glasgow University as their candidate at the Rectorial election next October.

The Faculty of Advocates decided at a meeting yesterday to ask the Government to appoint a Royal Commission or other body to examine the possibility of reforms in the procedure of the Court of Session with a view to increasing efficiency and minimising the expense and delay of litigation.

The text has been issued of the Bill presented by Mr Neville Chamberlain to continue for a further period the Rent Restriction Acts.

Mr Kirkwood referred to his suspension from the House of Commons in a speech to his constituents in Dumbarton.

Opposition to the Government of Northern Ireland is threatened by the Churches and the Orange Order. They have combined in demanding an amendment of the Education Act, so as to secure that religious teaching and Bible reading shall be given by teachers whose opinions are acceptable to the parents.

April 10, 2025
NEWS FROM 100 YEARS AGO : 6 March 1925

6 MARCH 1925

In the House of Lords the Advertisements Regulation Bill was read a second time, and several Scottish provisional order measures received the Royal Assent. The Earl of Clarendon said the British Government and the Irish Free State Government had failed to reach an agreement on the question of land purchase annuities, but the Treasury hoped to have another conference at an early date.

The House of Commons heard a statement on foreign affairs by Mr Austen Chamberlain.

Interrupting with an irrelevant remark Mr Austen Chamberlain’s statement in the House of Commons on foreign affairs, Mr Kirkwood was named by the Chairman, Mr J. F. Hope. Uproar followed, and the Speaker, having been sent for, Mr Kirkwood’s suspension was voted by the House. As a protest the Socialist members left the House in a body.

Stanley Baldwin, speaking at Birmingham on the industrial situation, pleaded for a truce of God.

Clause 8, dealing with the payment of standardised stipend, was added to the Church of Scotland Bill in the Scottish Grand Committee. A Socialist amendment gave rise to a long discussion.

The Rev. Dr Norman Maclean, in an article entitled “Port After Stormy Seas,” gives his impressions of the proceedings in Committee on the Church of Scotland Bill.

An arrangement relative to the rights of Edinburgh Town Council in the City Churches under the Church of Scotland (Property and Endowments) Bill was reported at a meeting of the Council.

Negotiations in London regarding the wage claim of the engineers broke down. A complete deadlock exists, and the position is described as “very delicate.”

April 10, 2025
NEWS FROM 100 YEARS AGO : 5 March 1925

5 MARCH 1925

In the House of Lords, the Earl of Balfour said it was not only erroneous, but most mischievous and unfortunate, to suggest that the Singapore scheme gave any just cause for complaint by Japan.

A financial resolution relating to the Church of Scotland (Property and Endowments) Bill was discussed in Committee of the House of Commons. It was explained that the resolution was necessary to enable the Treasury to negotiate with the Church authorities for the redemption of certain sums that are at present payable out of the Consolidated Fund. Mr Barr’s amendment providing that such capital sums shall not exceed the amount, together with interest thereon, necessary for discharging in full all existing life interests, was rejected by 234 to 101, and the resolution agreed to. The Food Prices Commission came in for sharp criticism by Socialist members on a motion by Mr Lansbury calling for prompt State action to stop profiteering. The motion was rejected.

Viscount Grey, addressing the Liberal Parliamentary party, of which he was the guest at dinner at the House of Commons last night, said that the British Government made a difficulty about adhering to the Geneva Protocol, but we could not go on turning down all proposals for security and making none ourselves.

Mr Reginald McKenna, chairman of the Midland Bank, addressed the Commercial Committee of the House of Commons on the restoration of the gold standard.

Lord Rawlinson, Commander-in-Chief in India, speaking in the Legislative Assembly, evoked strong protests from Indian members by a remark that it was no simple matter to create a national army, “because India was not a nation.”

President Coolidge, in his Inaugural Address, said that the United States represented nothing but peaceful intentions toward all the earth, but it ought not to fail to maintain such military force as comported with the dignity and security of a great people.

April 10, 2025
NEWS STORY : Universal to Build Multi-Billion-Pound Theme Park and Resort in Bedfordshire Creating Thousands of Jobs

STORY

Universal Destinations & Experiences has unveiled plans to build a world-class theme park and resort in Bedfordshire, marking the company’s first venture in the UK and Europe. The multi-billion-pound development will be located on a 476-acre site in Kempston Hardwick and is expected to open in 2031.

The project promises a major economic boost for the region and the country, with around 20,000 jobs created during construction and a further 8,000 permanent roles once the resort is operational. Universal projects that the site will attract up to 8.5 million visitors in its first year alone and contribute nearly £50 billion to the UK economy by 2055.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer praised the investment, calling it a vote of confidence in the UK as a destination for global business. He highlighted the alignment of the project with the Government’s Plan for Change, which aims to drive economic growth through job creation in sectors like hospitality, technology, and tourism.

Local government leaders have thrown their support behind the project, describing it as a once-in-a-generation opportunity that could establish the South East Midlands as a premier international visitor destination. A joint letter from the leaders and chief executives of six local authorities, including Bedford Borough and Central Bedfordshire Councils, emphasised the scale and ambition of the development.

Universal also announced plans to collaborate with local colleges and universities to offer apprenticeships and internships, helping to train a new generation of skilled workers. The company is also working with transport authorities to ensure infrastructure can support the anticipated influx of visitors.

While specific attractions have not yet been revealed, the resort is expected to offer immersive experiences based on Universal’s iconic films and stories, alongside a 500-room hotel and a wide range of entertainment and dining options. Planning consent is still required, with Universal expected to apply for a special development order later this year. If approved, construction could begin soon after, with the opening targeted for 2031.

April 10, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Multi-billion-pound investment secured as Universal theme park and resort set to be built in Bedford, bringing thousands of jobs [April 2025]
The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 9 April 2025.

A multi-billion-pound investment in a major new Universal theme park and resort in Bedford has been agreed between Universal, the government and the local council, in a move that represents a major vote of confidence in the UK economy and the future of partnerships between the UK and the US.
- The Prime Minister has today closed the deal on a new Universal theme park in Bedfordshire
- Plans will bring an estimated £50bn boost for the economy and create around 28,000 jobs in total across creative, hospitality and construction industries
- Set to open in 2031, the theme park will form part of a new planned entertainment resort, due to include immersive storytelling, rides, attractions and hospitality
- Deal firmly puts the UK on the global investment stage, delivering on the government’s Plan for Change, which will create growth and opportunities across the country
A multi-billion-pound investment in a major new Universal theme park and resort in Bedford has been agreed between Universal, the government and the local council, in a move that represents a major vote of confidence in the UK economy and the future of partnerships between the UK and the US.

The theme park, which is set to be one of the largest and most advanced in Europe, will bring nearly 20,000 jobs during the construction period, with a further 8,000 new jobs across the hospitality and creative industries when it opens in 2031.

Supporting the government’s Plan for Change to create economic growth and opportunities by getting people into well-paid, decent jobs across the creative, technology, tourism and hospitality sectors, Universal has committed to working with local colleges and universities to train the next generation of its hospitality workforce, including through a range of apprenticeships and internships.

As well as generating significant opportunities, the new theme park and resort will bring significant local benefits – with approximately 80% of employees at the theme park expected to come from local areas – and support a stream of ongoing work to unleash the potential of the Oxford-Cambridge corridor through growth, infrastructure revitalisation and further job opportunities.

Universal expects the site to generate nearly £50 billion for the economy by 2055, with 8.5 million visitors expected in its first year – becoming the largest visitor attraction in the UK. This will support the government to deliver its growth mission – creating higher living standards and putting more money in people’s pockets.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

Today we closed the deal on a multi-billion-pound investment that will see Bedford home to one of the biggest entertainment parks in Europe, firmly putting the county on the global stage.

This is our Plan for Change in action, combining local and national growth with creating around 28,000 new jobs across sectors such as construction, AI, and tourism.

It is not just about numbers; it’s about securing real opportunities for people in our country. Together, we are building a brighter future for the UK, getting people into work and ensuring our economy remains strong and competitive.

The development, working with Bedford Borough Council, will be the first Universal-branded theme park and resort destination in Europe and will be part of a larger 476-acre entertainment resort complex.

Proposed plans from Universal Destinations & Experiences, a business unit of Comcast, include a world-class theme park with several themed lands featuring Universal’s distinct brand of immersive storytelling, thrilling rides, innovative attractions and exciting entertainment, all utilising sophisticated and advanced technology. Initial resort plans also feature a 500-room hotel and a retail, dining and entertainment complex.

Mike Cavanagh, President of Comcast Corporation, said:

We could not be more excited to take this very important step in our plan to create and deliver an incredible Universal theme park and resort in the heart of the United Kingdom, which complements our growing US-based parks business by expanding our global footprint to Europe. We appreciate the leadership and support of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Chancellor Rachel Reeves, Minister for Investment Poppy Gustafsson, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy and their teams, as we work together to create and deliver a fantastic new landmark destination.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

At a time of global change, this investment is a vote of confidence in Britain as a place to do business. Universal’s investment will bring billions to the economy and create thousands of jobs to the UK, putting more money in people’s pockets.

Mark Woodbury, Chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences, said:

Bringing a world-class theme park and resort to the United Kingdom is a tremendous opportunity and is part of our strategy to introduce the Universal brand and experiences to new audiences around the globe. We appreciate the incredible support for our proposed project and look forward to bringing it to life in the years ahead.

As part of the Plan for Change, the government will commit to a major investment in infrastructure around the site to support the delivery of the project and ensure it is well connected and easily accessible. It comes just days after the government signed-off the expansion of Luton Airport, showcasing how the government’s pro-growth agenda is delivering real-life benefits for working people.

The deal supports the UK’s world leading creative industries, a growth-driving sector identified in the government’s modern Industrial Strategy, which will be published this spring. The Strategy will drive investment into high growth sectors, unlocking jobs and growth right across the country.

Universal Destinations & Experiences has a proven track record of building and operating major theme parks and resorts across the globe. A Universal development in the UK will join the company’s existing portfolio of destinations across the United States and Asia-Pacific.

The proposals remain subject to a planning decision from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Additional details on the project:
- Please contact Universal Destinations & Experiences for artist impression and drone footage of the site: uprcorpcomm@uniparks.com
- Further details on Government plans for infrastructure investment around the site will be set out in due course.
- The theme park resort will be built on the former Kempston Hardwick brickworks. More information on the project can be found at universalukproject.co.uk.
- The theme park and resort is subject to planning permission, which will be considered at a later date.
April 10, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Cutting edge tech introduced in social care [April 2025]
The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 9 April 2025.

Care leaders will be trained to use the latest cutting-edge technology to improve patient care, free up staff time and help people live independently in their own homes for longer.

In a bid to shift adult social care from analogue to digital as part of the Plan for Change, the Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting has announced a new qualification that will equip care leaders with the skills to use and rapidly deploy technology across care homes and other settings.

The training will focus on tools which have been shown to improve the quality of care and reduce pressure on staff. This includes motion sensors that can detect and alert staff when a patient has had a fall; video telecare to allow remote appointments with doctors and carers to reduce the need to travel; and artificial intelligence which can automate routine tasks like note taking or predict when a patient might need additional care.

Care technologies like these will help people to receive the best possible care in the community and prevent avoidable trips to the hospital, reducing pressure on the NHS. It supports the government’s 10 Year Health Plan to make health and social care fit for the future.

Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said:

We will harness the full potential of cutting-edge technology to transform social care, helping people to live independently in their own homes and improving the quality of care.

By investing in skills training for care workers, introducing a Fair Pay Agreement, and providing more opportunities for career progression, we will help retain the incredible professionals we need.

Our Plan for Change will make sure we have the people and the skills needed to build a National Care Service.

Speaking at Unison’s 2025 National Health Care Conference, the Health and Social Care Secretary also outlined a series of wider measures to boost the recruitment and retention of care staff. The plans will professionalise the adult social care workforce and help staff progress in their careers, leading to better pay and recognition.

This includes:
- Setting up new job roles – like deputy managers, registered managers, personal assistants and a new enhanced care worker role – in recognition of increasingly complex care requirements. It will mean their skills will be recognised across the health service, so that GPs, doctors and other health professionals understand their expertise.
- £12 million to fund courses and qualifications for carers to develop new skills, build expertise and advance in their careers.
The boost for social care careers will support the 1.59 million strong workforce which provides vital care and support to people of all ages and with diverse, complex needs and is in recognition of the vital work they do.

The measures come as unpaid carers’ see the biggest rise in their earnings limit since the 1970s this month, and the first ever Fair Pay Agreement for the sector continues to progress through Parliament.

Baroness Louise Casey will soon begin her independent commission into adult social care which will look at how we recruit, retain and support the workforce as part of its focus on building a social care system fit for the future.

Background

Care Workforce Pathway
- The Care Workforce Pathway is the first universal career structure for the adult social care workforce. It focuses on direct care and support roles. The second part of the Pathway includes four further role categories to continue to match the breadth of careers in adult social care.
- The Pathway provides clear guidance for progression and development for professionals in the adult social care sector by outlining the necessary knowledge, skills, values and behaviours they will need in their work/practice. 8 It sets out how people can develop across a long-term career in adult social care with support and training; attracting people to join and remain in the sector and supporting sustainable workforce growth.
Level 5 Digital Leadership Qualification
- This new qualification will ensure adult social care leaders and managers have the skills they need to adopt digital innovations and new technology to help transform the sector.
- This supports the fundamental shift from analogue to digital in adult social care will support high quality, safe, efficient and person-centred care. This shift is dependent on the adult social care workforce feeling confident, skilled and supported to embed digital ways of working.
- Awarding Organisations can decide which technologies to focus on and these are included, but not limited to: smart home technologies, assistive technologies, technologies worn by staff, telecare, diagnostic tools, digital social care records, business software and AI and robotics technology. Further information can be found in the Level 5 Award in Understanding Digital Leadership in Adult Social Care Qualification Specification.
Publication of updated care certificate standards
- The Care Certificate standards have been refreshed to bring the contents up to date and in line with the Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate qualification that was launched in June 2024.
- The Care Certificate Standards were developed for use in England and are the recommended minimum training, supervision and assessment that staff new to care (health and adult social care) should receive as part of induction and before they start to deliver care. It provides a foundation for healthcare support and social care worker roles, ensuring that the new worker can provide a compassionate and caring service.
International Recruitment Fund
- Additionally, the government will also reduce reliance on overseas recruitment for social care. £12.5 million has been made available for the international recruitment fund to tackle the exploitation of international care workers. This will help find new employment for displaced overseas care workers, prioritising those already in the UK before hiring internationally.
Learning and Development Support Scheme
- The Adult Social Care Learning and Development Support Scheme (LDSS) will continue in financial year 2025 to 2026, backed by up to £12 million. This scheme supports adult social care employers to invest in their workforce through funded training opportunities. Updated information has been published on GOV.UK: Adult Social Care Learning and Development Support Scheme – GOV.UK
- The Level 5 Digital Leadership qualification is eligible for funding under the Learning and Development Support Scheme (LDSS).
April 10, 2025