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Important changes to the UK Immigration Rules take effect on 8 October 2026, affecting how fee-waiver requests interact with subsequent immigration applications and biometric enrolment. For applicants who rely on a fee waiver because they cannot afford Home Office application fees, careful preparation will become even more important. The changes were introduced through the Statement […]

Health and social care employers already have a duty to take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment of workers. From 30 October 2026, the Employment Rights Act 2025 strengthens that duty to all reasonable steps. Employers will need to identify the risks in their own service, act on every preventive step that is reasonable in

From 1 October 2026, the usual deadline for bringing most employment tribunal claims in Great Britain increases from three months minus one day to six months minus one day. The new period applies where the time limit starts on or after 1 October. It gives many employees more time to consider a claim, while making

Event healthcare providers in England can now apply for Care Quality Commission (CQC) registration under new rules covering treatment at events. The change may affect organisations providing medical care at sporting and cultural events, but it does not mean every event first aid provider needs to register. Applications opened on 7 September 2026. The key

Focus Keyword: Outstanding CQC Rating Estimated Reading Time: 5 minutes Could Your Service Be Rated Outstanding? Every health and social care provider wants to deliver exceptional care, but achieving an Outstanding CQC rating isn’t about having the biggest budget or the newest building. It’s about creating a culture where people receive excellent care, staff feel

Everything you need to know about free contraception, where to get it, and how to choose the right method. Making decisions about your sexual and reproductive health can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure where to start. The good news is that contraception is widely available free of charge through the NHS, and many services

The future of health and social care in the UK is built on collaboration. Across England, NHS organisations, adult social care providers, local authorities, voluntary organisations and community partners are increasingly working together to deliver better, more joined-up care for the people they support. For CQC-registered providers, Registered Managers, care home operators, domiciliary care providers

Last reviewed: 24 July 2026Category: CQC Compliance | Mental Health | Patient Safety | Clinical Governance The death of a patient or person using a service is one of the most difficult situations a health or social care organisation may face. Alongside supporting the person’s family, other people using the service and members of staff,

Practical heatwave advice for health and social care providers, staff, carers and community partners. Hot weather can be enjoyable, but when temperatures rise too high, it can quickly become a serious health risk. For health and social care providers, this is a key moment for prevention, planning and early support. The NHS warns that during