50 years in social care | Interview with Paul Ridout, HCR Law

Paul Ridout is a leading figure in adult social care, having worked with providers at the heart of the industry for over 50 years.

In this insightful video, Paul is joined by his colleague Laura Shelton to reflect on his career to date and the evolution of social care over that time. Both Paul and Laura are Partners in HCR Law’s Healthcare Regulatory team.

They share memorable moments from Paul’s five decades in social care, including his decision to focus exclusively on representing providers and the benefits of his specialist regulatory firm, Ridouts, joining HCR Law’s full-service Healthcare team in 2024.

The video explores how the public perception of social care has changed and how care homes have evolved from ‘hotels for old people’ to vital centres of support for society’s most vulnerable. Paul also discusses the challenges facing an industry often seen as a ‘Cinderella service’ compared to healthcare, from political decisions that have shaped the sector to the ongoing struggle to recruit talented people to work in care homes.

Laura presses Paul for insights into the future of social care, including the role of the regulator and how the industry must respond to rising life expectancy and increasing levels of acuity.

Whether you’re a social care professional, provider, policymaker or simply passionate about the sector, this video offers valuable insights and inspiration from one of the industry’s most respected voices.