Caroline Hope

This new DfE video is well worth a watch - first time I've seen the government be more transparent and properly set out the difference between the apprenticeship levy, the apprenticeship programme budget and explaining the difference between programme underspend and funds in levy payers' accounts. Interesting narrative at (2.06) which explains that investment (the DfE's budget) will remain the same "even if levy receipts fall" - worth noting that the levy receipts have increased (significantly) every year since 2017... read into that what you will. Interesting breakdown for Financial Year 23/24 (April 23 to March 24) - 69.7% spent on levy payers - 27.6% spent on non-levy payers - 2.1% DfE support costs - 0.6% underspend was returned to HMT Final thought - not a single mention of the Growth and Skills Levy or the Growth and Skills Budget. Watch the video here: https://lnkd.in/e63wNxG4 #AskAshworth #Apprenticeships #SkillsMeansGrowth AELP

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I really do worry about digital care plan systems. Digitalisation of social care plans has many advantages and I am all for it. But, the many of the current systems are no more than digital versions of what were poor paper based systems. Some are even worse than that! Just this week a care provider and I reflected that the systems we used a decade ago ( word docs) were far better than the digital system they had today, I spend far too much time trying to find work around for care providers to turn the dross that is so called risk assessments (that don’t actually assess any risks) into something which is even halfway useful or compliant. And as for the mental capacity assessments - well, the majority are back to front and not compliant with good practice. When will the providers of digital care plan systems actually create something which is an improvement on what we had before? Granted there are new kids on the block and some of those systems are awesome. But care providers often go for the tried and tested providers, those who will be there for ever. It seems that there is a trade of between something that’s great but which may run out of cash and burn and something which is adequate (at best) but which has longevity. What’s the solution? It has to be care providers recognising that the choice of digital system has a direct link to the two essential elements of sustainability , that is regulatory compliance and financial viability. Here are a few tips to selecting the right system . 1. Begin by evaluating your care service’s specific needs. Consider the size of your organisation, the types of care delivered, and which tasks and workflows you want the software to improve, such as scheduling, medication management, or reporting. 2. Examine whether the software complies with all applicable regulations and standards, including GDPR, CQC / CIW/CI requirements, and NHS frameworks. Compliance not only protects personal data but ensures your organisation meets all legal obligations and industry best practices. 3. Make user experience a priority. Choose a solution with an easy-to-use design so staff can work confidently and efficiently, regardless of their level of digital skills. If possible, involve end users in software trials or demos to get direct feedback. 4. Ensure the platform offers strong integration features. Seamless connection with other systems such as rostering and finance software reduces duplication, streamlines processes, and supports consistent record-keeping. 5. Consider overall value, including ongoing support, training, futureproofing, scalability, and total cost of ownership. Research the provider’s reputation and customer feedback so your investment delivers lasting operational and care benefits. As always, I welcome thoughts and comments.

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