2023 will be the year that Social Care…‘gets the recognition it deserves.’

Katie isn't just the driving force behind Digital Social Care; she's a strong advocate for innovation in the sector. Many of you will have seen her on stage at some point or another, discussing all things digital.

Formed as a partnership project between the Care Provider Alliance and NHS Transformation Directorate, Digital Social Care is an invaluable source of free guidance and support on technology to adult social care providers across England.

Their mantra is "for Social Care providers, by Social Care providers." Katie has been instrumental in forging partnerships and alliances, ensuring that providers' digital goals are aligned (and compliant) with government policy. This was particularly crucial during the pandemic, and in important areas such as the digitisation of care records and data security and data protection.

 

In conversation with Katie

Describe your 2022 in one word:

Inspiring

What was your biggest achievement in 2022?

There were a lot, but I'm particularly proud of the Better Security, Better Care programme team, who have worked incredibly hard to help care providers complete the Data Security and Protection Toolkit. Over 50% of providers in England have now published DSPT submissions.

What was the biggest challenge, and how did you overcome it?

"The last few years have been very difficult for care providers, and this means that people can have a low bandwidth for trying new things and digitising - particularly where they feel this is something they are forced to do. 

The last few years have been very difficult for care providers, and this means that people can have a low bandwidth for trying new things and digitising - particularly where they feel this is something they are forced to do. 

At Digital Social Care, we continue to promote a sector-led approach where providers share their experiences and expertise with each other. This seems to be more successful in terms of driving engagement and interest in the digital agenda.

What are your priorities for 2023?

I'd like to look at the benefits of a broader range of technologies, including robotics and AI in social care.

Name a skill or habit you would like to cultivate this year:

I'd like to be better organised!

Which bit of tech (hardware or software) could you not live without?

I'd be absolutely lost without my phone

Android or iPhone?

Android

Teams or Zoom?

Depends. Teams is better for collaborating, Zoom is a better video conferencing platform.