EdgeWorks Labs

ADASS Spring Survey 2025: Can Social Care Survive the Perfect Storm?

In this episode, we break down the ADASS Spring Survey 2025 and its stark warning for adult social care in England. From record overspends and rising care complexity to the hidden crisis facing unpaid carers, the findings reveal a system under immense pressure. We explore why NHS pressures are spilling into social care, what this means for councils and families, and where opportunities for reform still exist. Tune in for a clear, concise analysis of the numbers, the human impact, and the urgent changes needed.

The Future of Care: Tackling Skills Gaps in Health and Social Care

What will it take to build a health and social care system truly fit for the future? In this episode, we explore the deepening skills crisis facing the sector, drawing on key findings from the latest Skills England reports. From digital transformation and rising demand to apprenticeship reform and cross-sector competition for talent, we unpack how workforce challenges in care are tightly connected to national economic trends - and what that means for future solutions. Whether you're a provider, policymaker or simply interested in how we care for people in a changing world, this conversation is essential listening. You can also read our briefing notes at www.edgeworks.co.uk/health-and-social-care-skills-gaps-latest-evidence-tells-us/ [http://www.edgeworks.co.uk/health-and-social-care-skills-gaps-latest-evidence-tells-us/]

Key Insights on Adult Social Care Apprenticeships (2023/4)

We summarise the critical trends and findings regarding apprenticeships in the adult social care sector, drawing from the Skills for Care analysis of Department for Education data. This information is essential for informing your strategic decisions in workforce planning, recruitment, and training. You can also read our briefing notes at www.edgeworks.co.uk/key-insights-on-adult-social-care-apprenticeships/ [http://www.edgeworks.co.uk/key-insights-on-adult-social-care-apprenticeships/]

A Social Care Fair Pay Agreement and workforce impact

We look at the plans to establish a Fair Pay Agreements process in Adult Social Care, the impact on the sector and why this report matters for learning and development in UK social care. You can also read our briefing notes at www.edgeworks.co.uk/social-care-fair-pay-agreement-workforce-impact/ [http://www.edgeworks.co.uk/social-care-fair-pay-agreement-workforce-impact/]

Navigating the Better Care Fund

We break down the key aspects of the Better Care Fund (BCF) for 2025-2026 and highlight the changes, priorities, and actions required. By understanding these components, social care employers can align with this important policy. You can also read our briefing notes at www.edgeworks.co.uk/navigating-the-better-care-fund/ [http://www.edgeworks.co.uk/navigating-the-better-care-fund/]