On Thursday 19th June 2025, the Care Innovation Summit convened at the Business Design Centre in London, bringing together thought leaders, innovators, and operators from across the care sector. The event was a powerful showcase of the challenges, transformations, and inspiring solutions shaping the future of adult social care.
Opening with heart and purpose
The summit began with a warm welcome from Sameena Ali-Khan, ITV presenter, setting a tone of compassion and optimism. This was followed by a compelling keynote from Jermaine Harris, who spoke on “Caring for Carers.” Jermaine described the care sector as a place of “amazing solutions for amazing people,” emphasising the importance of gratitude, balance, and positivity in the workplace. His speech culminated in a symbolic barefoot walk across glass—no mean feat (pun intended).
CQC Leadership and sector updates
James Bullion, Interim Chief Inspector at the Care Quality Commission (CQC), announced his departure, with Chris Badger stepping into the role. James highlighted ongoing leadership changes and immediate updates to scoring systems. While technology challenges persist, the CQC is prioritising improvements in assessment and registration processes.
Key insights included:
• A surge in monthly registrations from 9,000 to 12,000–14,000, reflecting rising demand.
• A renewed focus on the “What to Expect When You’re Inspected” document.
• Advocacy for national issues like workplace visas and National Insurance increases.
James also discussed the newly launched Baroness Louise Casey Commission, which will consider a National Care Service. The commission will address workforce reform, sustainable funding, inequality, and a fair pay agreement, alongside a 10-year NHS plan with implications for social care.
Achieving high quality design championing senior living
Gary Reed, Director of Property at HC-One, presented on high-quality design in senior living. He showcased Darnley Court, a dementia-care facility designed with psychological needs in mind.
Features include:
• Nest-like spaces for refuge and reflection.
• Enhanced lighting to support both residents and staff.
• A study with Surrey University on lighting and fall management.
• Innovations in infection control, communal areas, and staff rooms.
Gary emphasised the importance of balancing technological upgrades with resident comfort and staff wellbeing.
Forging a profitable and sustainable future for adult social care
A panel discussion explored the feasibility of a National Care Service, comparing it to national contracts for GPs and dentists. John Rennison of 1st Homecare advocated for centralised budgeting and consistent contracts, though acknowledged the significant cost implications for government.
The panel also tackled:
• The impact of ending work visas for overseas care workers.
• The need to improve the image of social care to attract talent.
• Professionalising care roles through registration or a “pin” system.
• Enhancing retention by being more selective in recruitment.
Digital transformation and innovation
Digitalisation emerged as a key theme, with technology driving efficiencies in administrative tasks like care notes and policy documentation. Innovations discussed included:
• AI-assisted procedures and audio transcription.
• Tools to identify staff stress points and improve retention.
• Streamlining office processes and logging best practices.
While not always cost-saving, these technologies aim to improve the lives of carers and residents alike.
Social care innovations
The summit concluded with a discussion of common innovations:
• Affordable UTI dipstick tests.
• Lift aids for fall recovery.
• Morning exercise programs for youth to reduce behavioural issues.
• The Filo Project: host homes offering day support for dementia care.
• Hobby and interest days to enrich resident experiences.
Despite the overwhelming number of digital solutions available, the key takeaway was the need for interoperability—getting systems to communicate for true efficiency.
Final thoughts
As Gordon Cochrane, CEO of Healthcare Homes, aptly quoted: “Somehow social care always comes through.” Despite funding challenges and rising operational costs, the sector continues to innovate, adapt, and deliver compassionate care. The Care Innovation Summit 2025 was a testament to the resilience and creativity of those dedicated to improving lives through social care.
To discuss further or to receive tailored advice, contact Hazlewoods Partner, Stephanie Hayman.
