
Steering Through Change, the National Care Association whitepaper on the Adult Social Care Sector
3 February 2025

The National Care Association, in partnership with HCR Law, has published a comprehensive whitepaper, “Adult Social Care: Steering Through Change” delving into the pressing challenges facing the adult social care sector.
The report explores three critical areas: funding, workforce and regulation. It proposes both immediate and long-term strategies to address the challenges and to create and thriving, robust sector. Emphasising the intricate web of the adult social care landscape, the report underscores the need for a unified, cross-party approach to implement meaningful changes, and welcomes the recent announcement of the independent commission led by Baroness Louise Casey.
Championing care workers
One urgent concern highlighted in the whitepaper is the recognition and appreciation of care workers – of which the National Audit Office estimates there being 1.6m. The report suggests a multifaceted approach to valuing these vital professionals.
Going beyond financial incentives, it calls for development of robust career paths, creation of coaching and networking opportunities – and the empowerment of experienced staff while developing the next generation of care workers. Alongside this, the whitepaper stresses the importance of supporting and advancing effective management within the sector.
A vision for the future: the National Care Service
Looking further ahead, the paper supports the notion of a National Care Service. It argues that although the care industry is already interconnected, a fully integrated system incorporating local care services could provide significant, long-term benefits. The proposal aims to create a cohesive and efficient care system which can better serve the UK.
Nadra Ahmed, CBE, Executive Co-Chairman, National Care Association, said: “Despite the challenges we face, we have the appetite to ensure that we start to consider and put forward solutions. The paper considers how to overcome the challenges and create a thriving, robust sector which is fit for purpose. It reconfirms the sector’s commitment to playing our part in overcoming the challenges and delivering the rewards.”
Rebecca Leask, Partner and Head of Healthcare at HCR Law, commented: “In our work, we see the challenges and opportunities faced by all stakeholders in social care and support, from local government and public sector bodies to private and public care providers. We see firsthand their dedication and passion for their work. We take great responsibility knowing the work we do in advising our clients in this sector helps them navigate these challenges and seize opportunities, enabling them to continue delivering for service users and taxpayers alike.”
The whitepaper is available to download from HCR Law.