Update information for providers

A monthly roundup of key updates, training, resources and service information for adult social care providers in Staffordshire.

Last updated: 23rd June

A Note from Dr Richard Harling  

Welcome to the May 2026 edition of our Adult Social Care communications.

As we move further into the year, we continue to see important developments across the sector, from upcoming changes in employment legislation to ongoing priorities around workforce, training, and compliance. This month’s update brings together key information, events, and resources to help you stay informed and prepared.

All the best, Richard

In this edition: 

Updates: 

Men’s Health Week 2026 

Men’s Health Week takes place from 10–16 June 2026, raising awareness of the importance of physical and mental health among men, particularly in the workplace.

This year’s focus encourages open conversations, early support, and reducing stigma around mental health challenges. In adult social care, where roles can be demanding, it’s important that male staff feel supported to look after their wellbeing.

Find out more and access resources here

Right to Work: Preparing for change in 2026 and how to stay compliant

Edward O'Brien, Senior Associate at Law Firm Lester Aldridge, will focus on the employment law considerations surrounding Right to Work checks for all workers, including how employers can carry them out in a fair, consistent, and non-discriminatory manner, in line with the newly published draft Code of Practice.

Edward will also cover the wider compliance framework, including links to sponsorship duties, international recruitment, and key risks to avoid

FREE Webinar: How new employment rights will impact adult social care

Tuesday 7 July 10:30–12:00

Skills for Care are hosting this event and will be joined by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), and the Department for Business and Trade (DBT). It will provide an overview of the Employment Rights Act 2025, including key policy measures, changes relevant to the sector and implementation timescales.

Register for this webinar on how new employment rights will impact adult social care

Dignity in Care Awards

A reminder that the Dignity in Care Awards recognise the dedication, compassion and outstanding work taking place across the sector. We encourage you to consider submitting a nomination to celebrate the individuals and teams making a difference.

Submit a nomination for the dignity in care awards

REMINDER: DSPT deadline is coming up!

The deadline for completing the Data Security and Protection Toolkit for 2025/26 is fast approaching.

Remember, you MUST complete the DSPT every year otherwise it is invalid and you cannot use it as evidence of your current arrangements.

Resource Guides

Learning from Lives and Deaths of People with a Learning Disability and Autistic People (LeDeR) 

Briefing for Care Providers – April 2026

This briefing summarises positive practice and key improvement areas identified in LeDeR reviews completed by Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Integrated Care Board during Quarter 3. Themes this quarter are consistent with previous findings and highlight both strong practice and areas where focused improvement is required. 
 

Care Homes Controlled Drugs Newsletter

This newsletter contains information to support safe use and handling of controlled drugs in care homes.  

View the latest newsletter

Training and Events

Social Care Academy 

Click the links below to check out the latest e-Learning: 

Oliver McGowan Training 2026-27 – Funding 

The DHSC have confirmed that Learning and Development Support Scheme (LDSS) funding will continue in 2026-27 to support the rollout of Oliver’s Training. Whilst ring-fenced the funding pot for this training is limited, and it is recommended that ASC employers submit their claims as soon as they have the required evidence.

LDSS funding is available for non-regulated staff and care providers must have an up-to-date Adult Social Care Workforce Dataset (ASC-WDS) account.

 

Further information on the Oliver McGowan training

Health and Wellbeing

Important Reminders:

Integrated Care Coordination for Urgent Care (Health & Social Care Professionals Line)

The ICC is now operational 24-hours a day, 7 days a week, to provide a dedicated line for all health and social care professionals for patients with urgent care needs. 
The service will continue to support with clinical advice and referrals to an alternative pathway as appropriate.

Call them on 0300 123 0983.
As before, this is not a direct patient access line and is in place to continue to support our system health and social care professionals.


Sign up to Field safety notice, national patient safety alert, device safety information, and medicines recall/notification

Sign up here - Alerts, recalls and safety information: medicines and medical devices emails - GOV.UK

Contact us

This update is produced and distributed by the Care Market Development Team.

Our webpages have lots of information, advice and guidance for Adult Social Care Providers. Please see our Care Market Development team web page.

If you have a specific question, please get in contact with us via email: asccommunications@staffordshire.gov.uk