The UK government has announced a major step forward in the professionalisation and digital transformation of adult social care. As part of the Plan for Change, Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting has introduced a new Level 5 Digital Leadership qualification, designed to equip care leaders with the skills needed to adopt and embed technology across services.
This initiative is part of a wider government effort to shift adult social care from analogue to digital and is backed by additional training, workforce support, and investment.
What the Qualification Covers
The new qualification will help care managers and leaders confidently use and deploy tools that enhance care delivery and reduce pressure on staff, such as:
- Motion sensors that alert staff when someone has had a fall
- Video telecare to support remote GP and care appointments
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) for tasks like note-taking and care planning
- Smart home and assistive technologies
- Wearable staff technology and diagnostics tools
- Digital social care records and business software
- AI and robotics to support care delivery
Awarding bodies will tailor the content to reflect real-world applications and sector needs.
Wider Workforce Support Announced
In addition to the new qualification, the government is investing in long-term workforce development through several key initiatives:
- £12 million in funded training through the Learning and Development Support Scheme (LDSS)
- Updated Care Certificate Standards aligned with Level 2 qualifications
- Creation of new roles such as deputy managers, personal assistants, and enhanced care workers
- £12.5 million to reduce reliance on overseas recruitment and support displaced care workers already in the UK
- Support through the Care Workforce Pathway, offering structured career progression in social care
Why This Matters
The digital transformation of adult social care is vital for building a future-ready, efficient, and person-centred system. The new Level 5 qualification ensures that leaders and managers have the confidence and skills to lead this change—making care safer, smarter, and more sustainable.
These updates also reflect the government’s recognition of the crucial role played by care professionals and their commitment to improved pay, recognition, and career development.
How to Get Involved
Employers and individuals can access the Level 5 Digital Leadership qualification through approved training providers, with funding available under the LDSS.
To learn more visit:
👉 Cutting-edge tech introduced in social care – GOV.UK
Join the Conversation
At HSCPN, we encourage our members to explore how digital innovation can support their care settings. Let us know if your organisation is planning to upskill in digital leadership or already using these technologies.
Stay connected for more updates, support, and insights across the UK social care sector.
Email: info@hscpn.org
Phone: +447777455681 / +447769379253
Website: https://hscpn.org
