OACP updates

Immigration essential for ASC survival

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 07:54:17 GMT

Immigration essential for ASC

Oxfordshire, along with many other parts of the UK, is dependent on a sponsored workforce providing valuable and valued care in our adult social care services. As a county which has around 1 in 3 workers recruited from overseas and delivering up to 50% of all home care hours each week, tightening immigration rules will have a devastating impact on efficient and and effective services.

Adult social care works with working-age adults and older people and it prevents people from going into hospital unnecessarily, whilst also enabling quicker discharge back home. Adult social care provides carers with a break, or works alongside them to enable them to work and contribute to the local economy.

It is so many things to so many people, without which the UK economy would not function: our sponsored workforce is a vital part of it.

Read more on BBC News

Care association response to draft TV ICB Operating Model

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 09:09:18 GMT

Joint response to TV ICB Operating Model

OACP , BCPA and BCA have agreed a joint response to the draft Thames Valley ICB Operating Model calling for better representation within the model for the independent adult social care sector. It is estimated that 45% of funding spent on ASC in the Thames Valley is made by between 13,000 - 15,000 self-funders.

This is a crucial part of the local health and care system.

Read the letter here

ASC assessments rise

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 15:00:11 GMT

New ASC assessments rise

DHSC | ASC client level data England: quarterly update to December 2025

The total number of people receiving long-term support in England showed an increase from 662,000 on 31 January 2025 to 683,000 on 31 December 2025.

The trend is driven by the increase in long-term support delivered in community settings, which covers home care and support in the form of direct payments from the local authority that people can then use to buy their own care and support.

The number of people receiving long-term support in the community increased from 465,000 on 31 January 2025 to 486,000 on 31 December 2025. This number increased in all age groups. The majority of people assessed between January 2025 and December 2025 were recorded as female (58% of those with recorded gender).

Data is only publicly available by region with the south east ranking second highest for new assessments for care.

On 31 December 2025:

486,000 people were receiving support in the community
139,000 people were receiving support in residential care homes
55,000 people were receiving support in nursing homes
250 people were receiving support in prison

Read about this and more in our weekly newsletter for 8 April 2026

CQC publishes response to Better Regulation, Better Care

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 15:30:04 GMT

CQC response to Better Regulation, Better Care

CQC has received strong support for major changes to how it assesses, inspects, and rates health and care services. It now plans to re‑introduce sector‑specific frameworks, bring back rating characteristics, remove scoring, and strengthen professional judgement, while continuing to refine the approach through further consultation and piloting.

1,703 responses received from providers, professionals, stakeholders, people using services, and the public with very high support for proposed changes:

95% agreed with changes to the assessment framework
80% agreed with changes to inspection and rating methodology

Read about this and more in our weekly newsletter for 1 April 2026

Covid-19 Inquiry publishes 3rd report

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 17:29:09 GMT

COVID-19 Inquiry publishes 3rd report

The Inquiry has published its third report and recommendations following its investigation into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the UK's healthcare systems.

The UK entered the pandemic with dangerously weak healthcare system resilience—too few staff, too few beds, ageing infrastructure, and inadequate planning. As a result, the NHS and devolved systems were pushed to the brink of collapse multiple times, with severe consequences for patients, families, and healthcare workers.

The Inquiry concludes that future pandemics could overwhelm the system unless urgent reforms are implemented.

Read about this and more in our weekly newsletter for 25 March 2026

Changes to company law

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 17:11:23 GMT

Changes to company law

You may be familiar by now with the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 ECCTA, or more likely a number of communications by Companies House about changes to company law, which have been brought forward in phases over the past couple of years, with implementation set to end by 2027. So, what has come into force and what can you expect from 2026?

Our condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Riki Moody

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 17:16:19 GMT

OACP shares our condolences

If you work in the north west of Oxfordshire, or deliver care services in Gloucestershire and may be you are a member of GCPA, you may have heard the very sad news of the sudden death of Riki Moody at the ridiculously young age of 46.

Riki was for many years, Chief Officer at Gloucestershire Care Providers Association, as well as being an influential figure within, and Treasurer for seven years of, the Care Association Alliance. He was part of the original team that set up the CAA and continued to be a major figure as the Alliance grew and spread across England. He was also regular attender at Digital Care Hub events. He had a love of life, the Gloucestershire Care Awards were the stuff of legend, and he brought that fun and irreverence into his work, whilst also working hard to make systems work better for local care providers. He will much missed by the wider care community he was in contact with.

Riki's funeral and celebration of his life will be held on Wednesday 25 March in Cheltenham and you can request attendance via his GCPA colleague Pip Wilson .

In lieu of flowers, Riki left wishes for donations to be sent to Hope for Tomorrow .

Joe Fisher to compère Oxfordshire Care Awards

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 10:00:02 GMT

Joe Fisher to host The Oxfordshire Care Awards 2026

Joe Fisher to Host the 2026 Oxfordshire Care Awards at The Oxford Belfry

OACP is delighted to announce that Joe Fisher, compère, broadcaster and live‑event host, will lead the celebrations at the Oxfordshire Care Awards 2026 on 21 May at The Oxford Belfry , where guests will enjoy a Gala Dinner honouring excellence across the county’s care sector.

With more than a decade of experience hosting major awards ceremonies, charity galas, festivals and corporate events across the UK, Joe has built a strong public profile for his warm, engaging style and his ability to bring audiences together. He is a regular host for organisations across health, education, business and the voluntary sector.

Joe will guide guests through an evening recognising outstanding care workers, teams, local heroes and organisations who make a profound difference to people’s lives across Oxfordshire. The awards, organised by Oxfordshire Association of Care Providers (OACP) , in partnership with Oxfordshire County Council, shine a spotlight on compassion, professionalism and innovation in social care, bringing together leaders, frontline staff, families and community partners.

Speaking ahead of the event, Eddy McDowall, Chief Executive of OACP said:

“It’s fabulous to have such a high profile figure as Joe to host a night that celebrates the people who give so much of themselves every day. Oxfordshire’s care community deserves to be recognised, and I’m looking forward to celebrating their achievements with Joe and enjoying the fun and warmth he will bring.”

The Gala Dinner and Awards ceremony will take place from 6.30 pm at The Oxford Belfry, with finalists representing the very best of care across the county.

Nominations can be made up to Thursday 2 April

Can you help a local charity?

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 17:07:43 GMT

Can you help a local charity?

Wallingford Accessible Boat Club are looking for a safeguarding lead to support their work.

Last year, the south Oxfordshire charity enabled over 500 passengers to enjoy the river with WOW-one making almost 100 voyages. You could be part of their ongoing success.

Contact WABC

Read about this and more in our weekly newsletter for 11 Msrch 2026.

Unpaid care: the realities of caring in the UK

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 17:02:11 GMT

Unpaid care: the realities of caring in the UK

The Health Foundation | Unpaid care: the realities of caring in the UK

This report presents the latest evidence on the scale and nature of unpaid caring across the UK.

Unpaid carers play a vital role in society, supporting friends and family because of illness, disability, mental health problems or addiction . Our latest analysis finds that 1 in 6 adults in the UK provided unpaid care between 2023 and 2025, similar to 2018–20. Caring responsibilities remain disproportionately concentrated among women and older working-age adults.

Caring is often rewarding, but without the right support, it can come at a personal and financial cost. Working-age unpaid carers are less likely to be in paid employment – 59% were in paid employment, compared with 67% of working-age adults who were not carers. 37% of carers aged 18–29 reported having a long-term health condition or being disabled, compared with 22% of those not providing care.

Despite this, financial support for carers is limited and generally targeted at those with lower incomes. And high reliance on unpaid care is embedded in the adult social care system. The government should both review existing support for unpaid carers and look again at the imbalance of responsibility for caring between individuals and the state – the Casey Commission offers an important opportunity to do this.

Read about this and more in our weekly newsletter for 4 March 2026.

Care Provider active sales

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 15:08:54 GMT

Care provider active sales

Oxfordshire | care provider active sales listings

Multiple platforms show ongoing sales activity, mostly for smaller operators or development‑potential sites.

One site lists ten care and nursing homes for sale in Oxfordshire. These include:

Trading care homes
Home‑care service providers
Franchise‑based care models

One listing is a confidential home‑care provider sale due to the owner’s family commitments.

A second site lists six care homes for sale in Oxfordshire. These include:

A home‑care service provider with turnover of £440k
Several trading care homes with varying capacities
Franchise opportunities (e.g., Promedica24)

Christie & Co report that the Oxford Market continues to show:

Exceptionally strong demand for care homes in Oxfordshire
Limited stock available, making the market competitive
Forecasted shortfall of 1,500+ wet‑room bed spaces by 2035

An indication that even when homes come to market, they tend to move quickly.

Read about this and more in our weekly newsletter for 25 February 2026

Citation: Employment Rights overview

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 15:00:49 GMT

Employment Rights Act overview

Following months of consultation, amendment and parliamentary scrutiny, the Employment Rights Bill passed through parliament in December and is now law as the Employment Rights Act. It brings significant changes that will likely impact your care business.

To help you get ready for what’s coming, OACP Members are invited to attend a free webinar on Wednesday 25 February at 1.30 pm , hosted by our partner Citation , where Associate speaker, Flora Neville , will give you practical guidance on what the new law means for your business and the steps you should take now to get ready for 2026.

She’ll cover:

An overview of the Employment Rights Act and its key changes
How flexible working regulations will be affected
New rights and protections for employees
How reforms to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) will work in practice
The cost implications of the Employment Rights Act for employers
Practical steps you should take today to get prepared

And so much more.

So, if you’re unsure what the upcoming changes mean or how they’ll work in practice, this is your chance to get up to speed.

Register here

Spring 2026 Quarterly Network

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 14:58:30 GMT

Spring Quarterly Network

Confirmed agenda for our first in-person network of 2026

Local Government Reorganisation

options under consideration and what they might mean for the commissioning of adult social care

Neighbourhood Health

early work and progress on creating local health and care communities and how adult social care fits in

Updates on other important issues

Book here

Employment Bill review

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 12:42:47 GMT

Employment Bill review

She’ll cover:

An overview of the Employment Rights Act and its key changes
How flexible working regulations will be affected
New rights and protections for employees
How reforms to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) will work in practice
The cost implications of the Employment Rights Act for employers
Practical steps you should take today to get prepared

And so much more.

So, if you’re unsure what the upcoming changes mean or how they’ll work in practice, this is your chance to get up to speed.

Register here

Read about this and more in our weekly Wednesday newsletter for 4 February 2026

SCIE launches standards of care report

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 17:31:27 GMT

SCIE launches standards of care report

SCIE | Towards a National Care Service: raising national standards of care

Today, SCIE published a new report that argues that the core challenge facing social care is not a lack of values or vision, but the inconsistent translation of those shared principles into people’s day-to-day experiences of care and support. England already has strong foundations in the Care Act 2014 and a widely shared understanding of what good care should enable – people living the lives they choose, with dignity, connection and control.

Read about this and more in our weekly newsletter for Wednesday 28 January

OACP Member Area updated

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 17:37:04 GMT

OACP Member Area updated

We have updated the following resources in Member Area :

In the CQC section

CQC self-assessment tool

KLOE evidence tabs checked and updated
Good practice links checked and updated

NEW CQC resource | What good looks like

Extended and summary versions added

In the Data section

Local wages summary

December analysis added + 12 month tracker showing increase

In the OACP restricted section

Links to latest networks updated

Read about this and more in our weekly newsletter for Wednesday 21 January

ASIOX commissioned to support sponsored workforce

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 09:18:56 GMT

ASIOX commissioned to support sponsored workforce

Last year, ASIOX was commissioned by Oxfordshire County Council provided support to international workers in need.

This year, support will continue until 31 March 2026 .

Support includes:

Sharing information to assist international recruits affected by their employer’s licence revocation to find alternative employment, including signposting to SESCA’s International Recruitment scheme.
Helping individuals with completion of CV’s and character reference where appropriate
Signposting individuals to support for accommodation where accommodation has been lost or is deemed unsafe
Applying to local organisations and charities for cost of living/ hardship assistance
Pastoral support
One face to face drop-in support session in partnership with OACP

Please contact ASIOX for all relevant referrals

Read about this and more in our weekly newsletter for Wednesday 14 January 2026

ReSPECT for Home Care

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 16:18:11 GMT

ReSPECT for Home Care

Oxford Health are running a dedicated session on ReSPECT for home care providers on Tuesday 13 January from 1.30 - 2.30 pm.

All Home Care providers invited to join Oxford Health for a run-through on ReSPECT

Find out more in our weekly newsletter for Wednesday 7 January 2026

Financial pressures survey

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 16:30:02 GMT

Financial pressures survey

Tell us what your financial pressures are and support our messages to the Council, the NHS and Government. Complete our 10 minute survey here .

Read about this and more in our weekly newsletter delivered two days earlier than usual on a Monday.

Flu support to care homes

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 16:00:15 GMT

Flu support to care homes

BOB ICB has published the opening times and arrangements for pharmacy support to care homes over the Christmas and New Year period. You can find that information here .

Read about this and more in our weekly Wednesday newsletter for 17 December 2025

Flu virus mutations and increased cases

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 09:43:21 GMT

Flu virus mutations and increased cases

Influenza A H3N2, specifically the subclade K variant, has undergone several mutations with notable effects:

H3N2 subclade K picked up at least seven key mutations during the summer of 2025, enhancing its ability to evade immunity from existing vaccines and past infections.

It is now dominant in the UK, Japan, Canada, and spreading across all continents, representing approximately 90% of H3N2 cases in several regions. Flu seasons in the UK began 5 weeks earlier than usual, leading to higher numbers of hospitalisations.

The current vaccine targets an older H3N2 subclade (J.2), so isn’t perfectly matched to subclade K. However, it still offers good protection against severe illness. Though it may not completely prevent infection, vaccinated individuals are significantly less likely to experience hospitalisation or severe disease.

The variant is causing a “toughest winter ever” in terms of flu burden with UKHSA anticipating high flu activity, especially among children and young adults.

However, official advice has not changed:

Government advice and guidance for managing acute respiratory infections (ARIs), such as flu, has not formally changed for the adult social care sector. The focus remains on embedding good standard infection control precautions (e.g. hand hygiene, cough/respiratory hygiene, good ventilation, and the appropriate use of PPE).

The most appropriate/ up to date guidance for managing flu is at Infection prevention and control in adult social care: acute respiratory infection - GOV.UK

Read about this and more in our weekly newsletter for Wednesday 10 December.

ERB changes

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 14:33:44 GMT

ERB changes

Employment Rights Bill | major changes on Government plans

On 27 November the House of Commons agreed that the ERB would contain a six-month qualifying period for unfair dismissal rights, a significant concession by Government. A six-month qualifying period is likely to be easier to administer for employers with day-one unfair dismissal rights no longer being balanced with probationary periods.

Rather than using existing powers in the Employment Rights Act 1996 to vary the qualifying period, the Government intends to legislate through the Employment Rights Bill itself. This means the six-month rule will be embedded in primary legislation and presumably means Government is future-proofing the change.

Read about this and more in our weekly newsletter for Wednesday 3 December 2025

Second report published from UK COVID-19 enquiry

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 14:38:49 GMT

Second COVID-19 report published

The second report and recommendations, focuses on the core political and administrative decision-making across the UK in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The report addresses decision making in the four nations of the UK and sets out the facts established in the weeks of public hearings held in each nation: Module 2 hearings held in England, Module 2A in Scotland, Module 2B in Wales and Module 2C in Northern Ireland.

It compares and contrasts the different choices made by the four governments in responding to the same emergency, to identify the most important lessons for responding to future UK-wide emergencies.

You can access the report and its recommendations on the official covid Inquiry website here , in a range of formats.

You can also watch the Chair of the Inquiry, Baroness Heather Hallett, present her findings and recommendations in a video statement on the Inquiry’s YouTube channel.

Read about this and more in our weekly newsletter for Wednesday 26 November 2025

UKVI webinar on navigating sponsorship

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 14:43:05 GMT

Webinar | navigating sponsorship

UKVI | International Recruitment webinar for Home Care providers

Thursday, 4 December 2025
10 – 11am
Navigating Sponsorship & Staffing: UKVI Insights for Home Care Providers

Join SESCA for an exclusive webinar in partnership with UKVI, designed specifically for Home Care Providers across the southeast.

This focused session will explore:

best practice in compliance
understand from UKVI most common reasons for revocations
address key challenges currently facing the home care sector; and
highlight practical, meaningful solutions to support sustainable recruitment and retention of displaced workers.

This event offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from UKVI, gain clarity on evolving regulations, and ask the questions that matter most to your service.

Places are limited and registration is essential – secure your spot today!

Register here

Read about this and more in our weekly Newsletter for Wednesday 19 November 2025

New BOB ICB cluster meets for first time

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 17:11:32 GMT

New BOB ICB cluster to meet for first time

BOB ICB and Frimley ICB are now meeting together as a joint committee under a 'collaboration agreement' (Cluster) as part of changes to the NHS and public services.

The joint committee's inaugural online meeting is being held on Tuesday 18 November 2025 (10.30 am to 12 noon) and you are welcome to take part; but will need to email bobicb.enquiries@nhs.net to request a link to join.

You can ask questions to the joint committee (on the above email), but these must be received by 12 noon on Thursday 13 November. Agenda papers will be posted ahead of the online meeting here.

Read about this and more in our weekly newsletter for 12 November 2025

Government publishes ERB economic impact assessment

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 16:00:04 GMT

Government publishes ERB economic impact assessment

Government deems the impact of the ERB on social care to be medium to high impact due to:

social care being a low-pay occupation
contracts for low-paid workers being shorter in low-pay sectors
the use of zero-hours contracts in some parts of the sector
the generalised use of SSP as the default sickness remuneration

And that the impact on small and micro businesses will be higher than larger organisations due to the lack of economies of scale in implementation at a business level.

Government notes that only 20% of private sector workers are currently union members and they do not perceive this to change radically in the short to medium term.

Read about this and more in our weekly newsletter for 5 November 2025

Five DHSC consultations

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 16:00:16 GMT

Five DHSC consultations

DHSC | open consultations with implications on future employment and HR practices

In the lead up to the Employment Rights Bill becoming law and arrangements beginning for the introduction of the Fair Pay Agreement, OACP has set up a dedicated page containing links to open consultations.

Whilst you may not have time to complete all, each consultation will have an impact on your future employment contracts. Please take time to respond to the consultations most relevant to you.

Closing dates vary.

Review and respond

Read about this and more in our weekly newsletter for 29 October 2025

Free International Recruitment webinar

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 16:33:12 GMT

Free IR webinar

FREE International Recruitment webinar

Wednesday 12 November
10 - 11.30 am

Following the hugely successful webinar series, this next webinar will be delivered by immigration experts at Lester Aldridge Solicitors.

Open to all registered providers in the South-East, the webinar will offer practical guidance addressing key challenges including:

Sponsoring in-country migrant workers
Undefined CoS applications
Visa renewals
Employing sponsored staff on a secondary employment basis

Register here

Read about this and more in our weekly news bulletin for 22 October 2025

Companies House ID verification

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 15:00:06 GMT

Companies House ID verification

Companies House are introducing a new identity verification process to help prevent the misuse of companies for illegal activities. You may have already received an email from them with more details about this change.

Anyone involved in setting up, managing, owning, or controlling a company in the UK will be required to verify their identity.

Made with Care launches campaign

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 15:00:01 GMT

Made with Care campaign launch

Department of Health and Social Care are again running a campaign to encourage job seekers to Make Care your Career in a campaign to run from October to mid-March 2026. With a host of attractive ready-to-use assets across websites and social media, it's easy to get involved and promote vacancies to potential recruits. OACP's dedicated webpage provides a jump point to listed vacancies in Oxfordshire.

Read about this and more in our weekly newsletter for 8 October 2025

FPA Consultation now live

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 15:00:22 GMT

FPA consultation now live

DHSC | Fair Pay Agreement consultation now live

All consultation materials can be found here: Fair pay agreement process in adult social care - GOV.UK The consultation will be open until 16 January 2026.

DHSC will also be producing an impact assessment and an Easy Read version of the consultation document and survey but these are not currently ready. They will be added to this landing page in due course.

A press release has been published about the publication of the consultation and the funding announcement for FPAs. This can be found here: £500m for first ever Fair Pay Agreement for care workers - GOV.UK

Read about this and more in o ur weekly newsletter for 1 October 2025

The issue of just

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 13:26:39 GMT

The issue of just

In June 2025, OACP Chief Executive, Eddy McDowall, had the pleasure of joining a panel of care providers at the Birmingham Care Show to discuss attitudes to care, through the lens of 'the issue of just', an adjective we have probably all used in our careers at one time or another to describe, denigrate and downgrade our professional life.

The panel was hosted by our partners, the Institute of Health and Social Care Management . Membership of IHSCM is free to all OACP Members and provides a huge range of training and development opportunities for social care managers.

Big up your career.

Join OACP and get your free IHSCM membership

Record numbers of licences revoked

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 16:37:58 GMT

Record number of visa sponsor licences revoked

Record numbers of employers across all sectors have been banned from sponsoring foreign workers under a crackdown on abuse of the immigration system.

Between July 2024 and June 2025, 1,948 licences allowing employers to bring in migrant workers were revoked: more than double the number in the previous 12 months (937).

Many of the employers had been using work visas to help migrants circumvent immigration rules, as well as undercutting domestic workers by underpaying and exploiting migrant staff reliant on their jobs to stay in the country.

Adult social care, hospitality, retail and construction are among the sectors with the highest levels of abuse, data shows.

Read about this and more in our weekly newsletter for 24 September 2025

Handling confidential data via email survey

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 15:00:18 GMT

Data transfer survey

A survey commissioned by OACP and hosted by Oxfordshire County Council, which aims to understand how ASC providers manage the sending and receiving of confidential data via email, the platforms used, and any challenges or risks encountered.

The survey will close on Friday 31 October 2025 at midday.

Complete the survey here

Read about this and more in our weekly newsletter from 17 September 2025

Independent Casey Commission on ASC

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 15:49:14 GMT

Independent Casey Commission on ASC

Baroness Casey of Blackstock chaired a cross-party roundtable on 8 September to discuss the work of the Independent Commission on Adult Social Care, reports the Care Provider Alliance.

The meeting, held in the Cabinet Office, was attended by a representative from each of the Labour, Conservative, Liberal Democrats, Green and Reform UK parties.

Baroness Casey updated party representatives on the work of the Commission and invited party representatives to share their views on their priorities for reform.

Read about this and more in our weekly update for 10 September 2025.

Fair Funding Review impact on councils

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 15:00:16 GMT

Fair Funding Review

IFS | Fair Funding Review 2.0: the impacts on council funding across England

This report, funded by the Health Foundation, analyses the potential impact of Government's proposed reforms to how funding from central government is allocated between English councils.

For arguably 20 years, England has lacked a rational system for allocating funding between councils. But after so long without such a system, reintroducing one will mean a significant redistribution of funding around the country. The impact of these reforms will depend on choices Government makes about several key elements of the new system.

Read about this and more in our weekly newsletter for 3 September

Your LOCAL care association

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 14:15:00 GMT

OACP - your local care association

OACP is Oxfordshire's local care association bringing together providers, commissioners and supporting operational services to support the delivery of care services county-wide for working-age adults and older people.

In addition, every week OACP delivers support to hospital discharge, digital development and the employment of our overseas workforce. We also resolve issues and strive to make our local health and care system work better for local residents.

If you're interested in getting involved, complete our membership page form .

The cost of annual membership is less than the prices of a take-away coffee per week.

And lots more in our weekly newsletter from 27 August 2025

ICB commences ReSPECT roll out

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 14:15:00 GMT

ICB Commences ReSPECT rollout

The ICB is commencing the rollout of the ReSPECT (Recommended Summary Plan for Emergency Care and Treatment) process across our region. To support this rollout, below is some important information for nursing and residential care home staff. Please share with your teams to raise awareness about the ReSPECT process.

Further information, training opportunities, and resources will be shared in the coming weeks.

In the meantime, if you have any questions or would like to discuss how this may affect your service, please email bobicb-bw.palliativeandendoflifecare@nhs.net .

ReSPECT information for nursing and residential care homes

Read about this ad more in our weekly newsletter for 20 August 2025

Patient advice on hospital discharge

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 12:30:04 GMT

Patient advice on hospital discharge

Leaflet produced by Oxford University Hospitals for patients at point of admission providing information at point of discharge.

Read about this and more in our weekly newsletter

NRS - the road to failure

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 14:00:04 GMT

NRS - the road to failure

The demise of Nottingham Rehab Limited (t/a NRS Healthcare) was rumoured for several weeks until it became public over the last week. Beginning with a ransomware cyberattack in March 2024 , which necessitated the replacement of over 1,000 laptops, recovery costs spilled into 2025. NRS also reported that the terms of local authority contracts strained finances, with demands for high service levels at low margins. When coupled with inflation and increased NICs and operational overheads, NRS saw profitability challenged. Price Waterhouse Cooper led the sale attempts, but were unable to secure a sale leading to an application to The Official Receiver for compulsory liquidation on 1 August with 1,500 staff affected. NRS have been owned by Graphite Capital since 2019 and the main provider of community equipment for 41 ICBs and councils (including all of the BOB ICB localities), mostly in the south of England. Recovery has been underway over the last few weeks with, in most areas, provisional arrangements in place until full contracts were secured.

All eight councils in Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire will now be supplied by Millbrook Healthcare.

Read about this and more in our newsletter for 5 August 2025

Cycling Without Age

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 10:46:14 GMT

Cycling Without Age on Radio 4

Kiran Audit , owner of Mon Choisy and Kirlena House talked to The World Tonight on BBC Radio 4 about Cycling Without Age, a worldwide movement that aims to provide joy and vitality to all through the magic of bicycle rides. Through the simple act of sharing a bike ride, it weaves a sense of community and gathers unique and invaluable stories, unlocked only by the wind and wheels.

Listen to Kiran describe the initiative from 41:01 onwards.

Visit CyclingWithoutAge.org website and get involved

ASIOX support to migrant care workers

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 09:55:25 GMT

Support for migrant care workers

Buckinghamshire Council and Oxfordshire County Council have commissioned a new pilot with Anti-Slavery (ASIOX) until September 2025, to provide support to Sponsored Care Workers facing exploitation or job loss , for those living in Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire. This support is NOT a replacement for the SESCA-led International Recruitment hub and we will work together to support migrant care workers.

See the ASIOX website for more details on the service: https://www.asiox.org/support-for-care-workers .

This and other news can be found in our newsletter for 23 July

Local support for ASC charities

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 10:02:52 GMT

Local support for ASC charities

OACP has been approached by a number of ASC charity trustees asking for support individually and for their Boards. And following recommendation, we have a new partnership with Charity Mentors focused on the not-for-profit local social care provider market to support Chief Executives and Chairs of Trustees.

Interested? Please contact us for more information.

This and more news is found in the weekly newsletter for 16 July 2025.

New pre-paid card provider

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 10:09:36 GMT

New pre-paid card provider

The Council is transitioning to a new prepaid card provider, Allpay , replacing all current EML cards, including companion cards.

Key Dates

7–25 July 2025: new Allpay cards delivered
Until 27 July: continue using EML cards
From 28 July: start using Allpay cards

Each card will show the supported individual’s name; companion cards will also include your organisation’s name.

For more information please contact your council QIT connection.

This and other news in our weekly newsletter for 9 July 2025

Temporary congestion charge for Oxford?

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 10:12:14 GMT

Temporary congestion charge for Oxford?

Oxfordshire County Council | temporary Oxford congestion charge

A temporary congestion charge will be the subject of a public consultation following approval by Council Cabinet on Tuesday 17 June.

The aim of the temporary charge is to alleviate traffic congestion in Oxford until the traffic filters trial can be introduced when Botley Road reopens and will run for no more than two years.

The proposed scheme is designed to improve bus services and make it easier for those with permits - including carers , traders and blue badge holders - to travel by car into and around the city.

How would it work?

From autumn 2025, a daily charge of £5 would allow cars without a permit to go through six charge locations on roads in Oxford until the end of the day
All other vehicles would be able to go through at all times without paying the charge
Cars with a permit or day pass would be able to pass the charge locations free of charge.
Permits would be available for certain groups including community health and care workers, carers, blue badge holders and mobile traders allowing them to pass through the charge locations without incurring a charge.
Traffic signs would mark the locations of the charging cameras
The scheme would be enforced using automatic number plate recognition cameras (ANPR) positioned at the listed congestion charge locations.

The consultation appears to be gauging the number of permits which would be required and by whom, so we recommend each care provider, for whom it is relevant, completing it.

This and more news in our weekly newsletter for 2 July 2025

Latent TB screening

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 10:16:14 GMT

Latent TB screening pilot

Latent TB Screening pilot project

BOB ICB is looking for a local employer who will pilot a project to reach out to eligible staff for latent TB screening. This will be you if:

you employ more than one international worker who originates from a high incidence country

Countries with a TB incidence rate greater than or equal to 40 per 100,000 people are deemed high incidence and include countries in Africa, south of the Sahara (sub-Saharan Africa).

Latest country profiles can be found here .

Your employees may not know they are eligible/ at risk of developing full TB.

Please support your employees to check their eligibility.

Latent TB can develop into full tuberculosis after certain respiratory conditions, or cancer treatment.

TB is a notifiable disease.

Ideally, referrals should come direct to the TB service , either from an nhs.net email or EGRESS , rather than via GP, as it may delay the process. The TBN nurses clinic letter is normally copied to the employee's GP.

TB nurses can add to the screening form (when a person attends screening) if person are happy for the clinic letter to be shared with GP, and Employer.

Download the referral form .

This and more news in our weekly newsletter for 25 June 2025

Malnutrition and hydration training

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 10:19:14 GMT

Malnutrition and hydration training

ICB | Malnutrition and hydration training

Free half-day training for care home staff

Delivered between Sep 2025 and Mar 2026
1st and 3rd Thursday each month
9.30 am - 12.30 pm
Practical Food First strategies to manage and prevent malnutrition
Hydration tips and tools
Supporting residents with texture-modified diets
Managing barriers to eating & drinking
Hands-on activities, real-life case studies and resources to take away
Certificate of attendance for CPD

Register to find dates in your area

Download the flyer

This and more news in our weekly newsletter for 18 June 2025

SESCA support to IR to continue

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 10:22:32 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

SESCA support continues to summer 2026

Government has published guidance for regional partnerships on the International recruitment regional fund for the adult social care sector 2025 to 2026 - GOV.UK

Up to £12.5 million will be made available in 2025/26 to support migrant care workers impacted by sponsor non-compliance or unethical practice and respond to poor employment practices.

Tackling unethical international recruitment employment practices in the adult social care sector continues to be a priority for this government. The main aims of the fund in 2025/26 are for regional partnerships to:

support those impacted by non-compliant sponsors or unethical practice into new ethical, sponsored employment in the adult social care sector
engage with adult social care providers to encourage recruitment of migrant care workers impacted by non-compliant sponsors
support work to prevent and respond to exploitative employment issues

Current immigration rules mean employers must consider recruiting from the displaced worker pool . To support this process, please ensure you respond promptly to the assurance process, which is a necessary part of matching workers with new employers. The guidance on this process is here .

Our FREE International Recruitment Legal Helpline, delivered by Lester Aldridge Solicitors, has been extended until Friday 18 July 2025.

This free service continues to be made available in response to high demand from care providers seeking clarity on a wide range of issues, including:

The recent immigration rule changes
The new Displaced Worker recruitment process
Implications of the May 2025 Immigration White Paper

This and more news in our weekly newsletter for 11 June 2025

Oxford Health | have a go festival

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 10:26:56 GMT

Have a go Festival

Oxford Health | 11th annual have a go free festival

Thursday 3 July
10 am to 2 pm
Horspath Athletics Track, Horspath Road, Oxford OX4 2RR

Run by Oxford Health NHS and Active Oxfordshire.

Free sports day event for people with a learning disability living in and around Oxfordshire.

Event is weather dependent.

Free parking on site with bus space.

Please confirm attendance to email on the flyer.

See attached flyer for event details

Are you ready to Have A Go?

This and more news in our weekly newsletter for 4 June 2025

The photos are out!

Wed, 28 May 2025 10:31:10 GMT

The photos are out!

The PHOTOS ARE OUT !! Oxfordshire Care Awards 2025

What a brilliant evening. Thank you to everyone who made it possible.

Congratulations to all Winners , Highly Commended and Finalists

You can find a full list of results here.

We will be sharing images from the evening on our LinkedIn , Facebook and Instagram accounts.

Photo gallery ready for download!

We now have the images from the evening and you can find them in two sizes:

Web Res - up to 473kb (about 0.5 mb for websites, social media and internal newsletters)
High Res - up to 47mb (very large size for high quality printing)

If you have any problems downloading what you need, please let us know .

We will be emailing people who attended the evening, so that they don't miss their photo!

This and more news in our weekly newsletter for 28 May 2025

OACP | advocating for our sector

Wed, 21 May 2025 10:35:16 GMT

OACP | advocating for our sector

OACP Advocating for our sector

After chasing down the CHC uplift, Chief Executive, Eddy McDowall spoke to BBC Politics South on Friday afternoon (broadcast on 18 May) about the probable impact of the Immigration White Paper.

Watch here (from 6m 6s in)

This and more news in our weekly newsletter for 21 May 2025

Join OACP at SESCA's June conference

Wed, 14 May 2025 10:38:22 GMT

Join OACP at SESCA's June conference

Join us and colleagues at our next SESCA conference

Tuesday 10 June
Sandown Racecourse, Esher

Agenda includes

Neil Eastwood, Care Friends
Latest updates
Networking
More to be announced soon

Book here

This and more news in our weekly newsletter for 14 May 2025

The RESULTS are in!

Wed, 07 May 2025 10:40:58 GMT

The RESULTS ARE IN!

The RESULTS ARE IN !! Oxfordshire Care Awards 2025

What a brilliant evening. Thank you to everyone who made it possible.

Congratulations to all Winners , Highly Commended and Finalists

You can find a full list of results here.

We will be sharing images from the evening on our LinkedIn , Facebook and Instagram accounts.

This and more news in our weekly newsletter for 7 May 2025

Trusted Assessor Service saves £2.2m

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 10:45:19 GMT

OACP saves health system £2.2m

OACP's Trusted Assessor Service continues enable quick and efficient hospital discharge.

How did we do 1 April 2024 - 31 March 2025?

927 assessments completed at an average of 4.7 assessments per working day
92% assessments completed same day or next day
87% of assessments referred by providers or sourced by our Team
Saving the local system £2,279,825 in 2,317 NHS bed days
Plus 2,184 daily updates as requested by care homes or domiciliary care

Saving YOUR time in care settings…

3,708 hrs at 4 hrs per assessment
5,562 hrs at 6 hrs per assessment

At a total cost to the Oxfordshire system of just £70,120

80% of care homes and a further 27 DCA use our Trusted Assessor Service.

YOU and OACP are playing an important part in continuing to improve hospital discharge .

This and more news in our weekly newsletter for 30 April 2025

UK visa applications fall by more than a third

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 10:51:41 GMT

UK visa applications fall by more than a third

Number of UK visa applications falls by more than a third in a year

The number of UK visa applications have dropped to 772,200 applicants in the year to March 2025, according to Home Office data. In the preceding 12 months, nearly 1.24 million visa applications were received.

The biggest decline was for overseas health and care workers and their families with applications decreasing by 78% from 359,300 in 2023/24 to 80,700 in 2024/25.

See the monthly data

This and more news in our weekly newsletter for 23 April 2025

Funded training - evidencing CQC safe and effective

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 10:56:30 GMT

Funding training for local providers

Funded training for Oxfordshire | Evidencing CQC Safe and Effective

Oxfordshire County Council has funded places for Oxfordshire providers on the Skills for Care seminar which provides customised tools to help you embed the systems and processes essential to ensure staff are competent and adequately supported to provide safe, effective and person centred care.

Programme dates

Seminar: Thursday 19 June, 9.30am - 3 pm

Action planning sessions

Monday 30 June
Monday 8 September
Monday 20 October
Evidencing CQC safe and effective flyer

Book here

This and more news in our weekly newsletter for 16 April 2025

LWAH dynamic framework re-opens

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 10:59:42 GMT

LWAH dynamic framework re-opens

Living Well at Home Dynamic Framework

The LWAH Framework for Home care has re-opened for new Expressions of Interest for one month, as directed by Council procurement, from 1 April 202 to 30 April 2025, closing at 12 noon. However, it is likely that the previous message on this Framework advising potential bidders will still be applicable:

The County Council has over 100 providers on the framework so competition for each individual care package is exceptionally strong across all of Oxfordshire. There is no guarantee of business even if you are successful in joining the LWAH Framework.

This and more news in our weekly newsletter for 9 April 2025

Listeria monocytogenes outbreak

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 11:03:32 GMT

Listeria monocytogenes outbreak

UKHSA | National outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes

UKHSA has issued a Briefing Note (NHSmail required) to inform health and social care professionals of a national outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes serotype. They are investigating a cluster of five cases, all have underlying/ immunocompromising health conditions and were hospitalised, three have died. LM has been detected in two food isolates which match the clinical isolates: a chocolate and vanilla mousse and a strawberry and vanilla mousse.

People who may have consumed Cool Delight Desserts products in healthcare settings, including retail outlets, and report being unwell should seek advice from their local healthcare services.

UKHSA recommend to stop serving Cool Delight Desserts at NHS Trusts, independent sector healthcare providers, social care providers (e.g. care homes), and any settings where care is provided to immunocompromised individuals, while the outbreak investigation is ongoing. The products can be quarantined until the investigation has concluded’.

Read the FSA advice re outbreak here

This and more news in our weekly newsletter for 26 March 2025

Unlock apprenticeship funding for your care business

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 11:06:43 GMT

Unlock apprenticeship funding for your business

OxLEP | Unlock Apprenticeship Funding for Your Care Business in Oxfordshire

Did you know that, as a local Oxfordshire care provider, you can access support to cover the costs of Apprenticeship training?

If you’re not currently benefiting from the Apprenticeship levy, you may be eligible for funding from a dedicated pot of Apprenticeship levy funds specifically allocated for Oxfordshire.

This means that for apprentices aged 22 and over, you won't need to pay the training provider fees.

Large businesses, both locally and nationally, are coming together to share their unused Apprenticeship levy funds, and you can take advantage of this opportunity. The funding is available for both new apprentices and those looking to upskill, covering all Apprenticeship levels and standards.

The best part? There’s no cost to be matched with this funding.

To learn more about the Apprenticeship support and funding available, please get in touch with Leah Bryan, Skills and Employability Advisor at OxLEP Skills, at leah.bryan@oxfordshirelep.com .

Let’s make training and development easier for your team!

This and more news in our weekly news letter for 19 March 2025

After 25 Feb, what next?

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 11:09:30 GMT

After 25 Feb, what next?

#ProvidersUnite

After Tuesday 25 February, what next?

We recognise that one day of action will not leave a lasting impression on Government.

So what next?

OACP has written to all local Oxfordshire MPs offering and asking for ongoing dialogue about the pressures you face.

96 MPs across the UK have declared support for #ProvidersUnite expressing deep concerns for the adult social care sector.

What else would you like us at OACP and our connected sector through the Care Provider Alliance and #ProvidersUnite to do?

And if you went to Westminster on 25 February, #PU would love your feedback .

This and more news in our weekly newsletter for 5 March 2025

#ValueSocialCare

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 15:27:02 GMT

Why Tuesday 25 Feb 2025 Matters for Millions?

A Pivotal Moment for Social Care : Today, we stand at a critical crossroads for social care within our communities. Thousands of care and support providers, some accompanied by recipients of care, are joining us in a coordinated Day of Action centred in Westminster and simultaneously from multiple locations around the country. The Providers Unite Picnic is more than just a date on the calendar; it is a call to action, a moment to recognize, affirm and value the essential role of social care in our society.

Millions of individuals, carers, service users, families, and communities depend on a system that has long been undervalued and underfunded. This must change to ensure that we have a system that is fit for the future.

We are an integral part of the care and health offer alongside our NHS and Local Government partners. However, since the late 1980s, successive governments have ignored social care and provided inadequate investment to meet the demand for safe and happy lives of millions. It's time for real change.

As part of our #ValueSocialCare campaign, we are calling on the government to engage in a meaningful dialogue with us about the impact of the October 2024 measures, alongside urgent reforms to ensure fair pay, better working conditions, and sustainable investment in care services.

1.6 million social care and support workers provide essential support to some of the most vulnerable people in our communities, yet their contributions often go unnoticed and unrewarded.

Why #ProvidersUnite has created the 25 Feb Day of Action:

To explain to central government that Social Care deserves Recognition & Respect . Social care is an essential support to our society, ensuring dignity and independence for those in need. It is time for policymakers to acknowledge its true value.
To call for Fair Pay for Social Care Workers Now! Our incredible social care workforce deserves the fair pay and recognition they have long been denied. With 5.8% of the working population dedicated to social care - more than in the NHS, it's time their wages reflect their skill, dedication, and the essential nature of their work. These professionals are the backbone of our communities, yet they are still treated as second-class workers.
To highlight the need for Sustainable Funding for Community Care and Support Services . Millions rely on community care and support services every day, but without proper investment, these essential services are at risk. Rising costs and changes to Employers' National Insurance contributions threaten access to quality care for countless individuals. We cannot let vulnerable people be left without support. It’s time for real commitment to Value Social Care. Invest in community care now to protect lives and futures. We urge the public to stand with us and demand meaningful change. The future of our care system and the well-being of millions depends on it.

It’s time for real commitment to Value Social Care .

Invest in community care now to protect lives and futures. We urge the public to stand with us and demand meaningful change. The future of our care system and the well-being of millions depends on it.

Single point of Access

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 15:49:24 GMT

Single Point of Access - update

Since, 19 December, OUH has requested all ambulance crews who review a person in a Care Home in Oxfordshire and where there is a potential to convey the person to hospital, to carry out the following.

The 999 crew call the Health Care Professionals line in the Single Point of Access (SPA), to discuss each potential conveyance with a clinician, gerontology are conference called in as required

Three options.

Leave the person where they are with no further input
Urgent Community Response (UCR) or Hospital @ Home to visit and assess the person.
If ongoing treatment is required, this is delivered by the Hospital@Home team

Ideally, Oxford Health would prefer if care homes called SPA in the first instance.

Single Point of Access will discussed at the Oxfordshire Registered Manager Network on 19 March.

Sector Day of Action confirmed

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 08:47:19 GMT

Confirmed day of action

Care and support providers across England will converge on Westminster to demonstrate about the lack of support to the social care sector on Tuesday 25 February. If you would like to be part of the Oxfordshire group please contact us.

Simpler recycling: workplace recycling in England legislation

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 15:38:28 GMT

Simpler recycling: workplace recycling in England legislation

All care facilities with 10 or more full time or equivalent employees, will need to start separating recyclable materials from general waste and organise relevant collections by 31 March 2025 .

Government guidance:

Simpler recycling: workplace recycling in England - GOV.UK

For specifics see the Biffa website

All Oxfordshire care providers can benefit from comparing your current charges through our buying consortium partners at Spectrum Care Purchasing where you can choose between the following suppliers.

Free account registration required.

#ProvidersUnite gathers pace

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 14:33:08 GMT

Join #ProvidersUnite

Following on from the shared signatory letter to Government, #ProvidersUnite has launched a WhatsApp group to bring together grassroots providers. This dynamic group is looking to identify media outlets and create other eye-catching campaigns to continue to raise the concerns about the state of adult social care.

Join #ProvidersUnite here .

Independent commission to transform social care

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 09:24:52 GMT

DFG gets financial boost

New investment, reforms, and Louise Casey appointed to head independent commission, to transform social care

Government sets out immediate investment and reforms to improve adult social care and support the workforce.
Package of support will deliver the government’s Plan for Change by helping to keep older people out of hospital and living at home independently, for longer.
Thousands more disabled people to receive home adaptations as government improves technology and data sharing between NHS and social care.
Baroness Louise Casey to chair an independent commission into adult social care.

Thousands more people with disabilities will be supported to remain in their homes thanks to immediate action government is taking to improve adult social care, support the care workforce and take pressure off the NHS, the government has announced today (Friday 3 January).

Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting will confirm a £86 million boost to the Disabled Facilities Grant for this financial year – on top of the £86 million announced for next financial year at the Budget, taking the annual total to £711 million - to allow 7,800 more disabled and elderly people to make vital improvements to their home, allowing them to live more independent lives and reducing hospitalisations.

Read more here

DHSC earmarks additional £200m for ASC

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 16:36:24 GMT

£200m extra for adult social care

The Care Provider Alliance report that it looks like the headline figure for Adult Social Care is likely to be £880m, a £200m increase on previously announced figures, but far less than the £2bn that the LGA have stated is needed. There is an additional £515m for LAs to cover ENICS, but this is not ring-fenced and is likely to be used to cover LA payroll costs.

More when we have it..

Save the date!

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 15:00:02 GMT

Save the date!

We are excited to announce that the Oxfordshire Care Awards 2025 will be held on Tuesday 6 May , at the stunning Blenheim Palace in the exquisite setting of the Orangery !

In 2025, we’re doing things a little differently with an early evening event, adding a fresh twist to our celebrations.

We can’t wait to come together to honour and celebrate the incredible individuals and teams who make a difference in care across Oxfordshire.

Stay tuned—nomination forms and further details will be available here soon .

Let’s make this an unforgettable celebration of dedication, compassion, and excellence in care.

We’re so proud to host our awards in such a beautiful venue— mark your calendars , and join us for a night to remember!

Oxfordshire Care Workers Fund re-opens

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 13:24:19 GMT

Oxfordshire support fund re-opens

Do any of your staff need help with paying high utility bills, replacing white goods or household items?

Are they struggling to pay for car repairs? Are they moving and need help with furnishing the home?

There is help available to those that meet our eligibility criteria!

The CWC are happy to announce that our fund for care workers living and/or working in Oxfordshire has reopened.

Please note that if a staff member has received a grant the Oxfordshire fund within the last 12months they won't be eligible at this time.

For more information and to find our application form please click here

International recruitment update

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 14:15:00 GMT

New wellbeing training launches

New wellbeing training from SESCA is now available for overseas workers.

A 3-month programme comprising six 90-minute online workshops, combined with a timetable of wellness and peer support activities.

This innovative 3-month online programme combines wellness workshops focusing on communication skills, stress management, and cultural adaptation, with a range of wellness and peer support sessions to help build resilience and prevent burnout.

ENICS update

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 15:57:49 GMT

Let your MP understand the issues

Please continue to support the national petition which has reached over 30,000 signatories .

1.6m people work in adult social care.

 Can we reach 100,000?

Everyone loves a league table! These are our local constituency rankings:

Witney, 115 signatories
Oxford West & Abingdon, 73
Henley & Thame, 71
Bicester & Woodstock, 70
Didcot & Wantage, 69
Oxford East, 62
Banbury, 55

Can you boost your local area? Have all your staff signed?

ENICS: 3 things you can do...

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 16:09:01 GMT

3 + 3 things you can do...

3 things you can do to stand up for the care sector regarding the ENICS changes...

Sign the petition - nearly 25,000 signatories so far: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/700080
Sign the letter #ProvidersUnite : over 1,400 1100 signatories already
Complete the survey : deadline is TODAY 23:59 on Wed 20 Nov. Over 1200 responses so far.

And 3 more actions which will help...

Be a case study - can you send OACP quick answers to these questions?
Your setting (residential or community-based)
No. of staff – broken into full time / part time
No. of residents / clients
NI impact on your business in £££ based on current staffing
Email replies to info@oacp.org.uk
We will anonymise your responses and share with Oxfordshire County Council.

Write to your local MP - find your MP here

Write to your local Councillor - find your Cllr here

Valuable impact of Trusted Assessor service

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 16:19:06 GMT

Valuable impact of Trusted Assessors

OACP's Trusted Assessor Service provides support to care providers Monday - Friday at the John Radcliffe Hospital to expedite discharge.

We take referrals on:

local authority funded care home placements
self-funders seeking a care home placement
self-funders seeking a home care package
complex local authority funded home care packages

To contact the Service:

email oacp.taoxon@nhs.net

How are we performing since 1 April?

581 assessments completed to 31 October saving the local system £1,472,835
Plus 1,371 daily updates as requested by care homes

Saving care homes…

2,324 hrs at 4 hrs per assessment
3,486 hrs at 6 hrs per assessment
At a total cost to the Oxfordshire system of just £42,000 to 30/10/2024

Last call for the Digital Summit

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 16:25:18 GMT

Last call for #digitalcareBOB

Last call to join us for a fantastic line up looking at all things digital in care.

Book here

Live hacking
How AI can be utilised in care
Demos of the latest digital innovations in care

Free on-site parking
Close to mainline train station
refreshments and lunch included!

#digitalcareBOB

A new plan for people with a learning disability

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 16:51:15 GMT

Come and have your say

A new plan for people with a learning Disability - have your say

Oxfordshire is developing its 10-year plan and invites you to a workshop on 26 November in Didcot.

Download the flyer here

Or book through Eventbrite

Support to international recruitment

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 16:56:16 GMT

Get your supporting letter

International Recruitment Support from Oxfordshire County Council

Councils can provide additional information to UKVI to support certificate of sponsorship applications submitted by ASC providers in their area. This additional level of assurance has been developed in collaboration with DHSC, Home Office, UKVI, and ADASS.

Designed to facilitate applications for undefined CoS in instances where international recruits have been affected by a sponsorship licence revocation and need to be supported into alternative, appropriate employment within the sector (eg; through the SESCA displaced worker project).

A provider operating in Oxfordshire wishing to obtain a supporting letter will need to submit the details of their application to the Quality Improvement Team and ask for a letter of support for their CoS application.

Supporting information submitted presents a view, not an endorsement, of any application and is intended to aid UKVI to make a final decision.

In deciding whether to support providers in obtaining sponsorship licenses via UKVI, the Council will consider:

the provider needs to be CQC registered in Oxfordshire
have at least 10 active care packages/ placements in an active framework
have worked with Oxfordshire County Council for at least 2 years
there must be no ongoing concerns, especially around treatment of the workforce
the provider must have been reviewed by a QI officer within the past 12 months
whether the nos. of CoS requested is reasonable given the nos. of people supported and staff currently employed

Requirements put in place to ensure high-quality care provision and safeguarding of service users and staff. Council will retain discretion over whether to submit a letter of support.

Once Council is content to submit letter of support to UKVI, letter goes to the Home Office and UKVI will expedite applications submitted by providers that match to letters of support received.

Oral Health | STOPtober

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 17:03:16 GMT

This STOPtober, commit to quitting

Our partners in Dental Health, Community Dental Services have published their Oral Health October newsletter .

This STOPtober , millions of smokers are committing to quitting!

Smoking can lead to:

Tooth staining
Gum disease
Tooth loss
Mouth cancer

Read more here

Carers Oxfordshire survey

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 17:07:25 GMT

Carers Oxfordshire survey

Carers Oxfordshire survey

Carers Oxfordshire are conducting a survey to gather the thoughts and suggestions of unpaid carers in Oxfordshire on their current carers wellbeing offer. They’re looking to tailor the offer to better suit their needs.

Please pass on this survey to anyone you know that may be interested, whether they’ve taken up a wellbeing offer from Carers Oxfordshire or not.

The survey will take just a few minutes to complete, and responses are submitted anonymously.

Deadline for responses is 3 November.

The survey is accessible here

Or call 01235 424 715

OACP and OCA merge

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 17:11:44 GMT

Joined up support for you

Oxfordshire Association of Care Providers ( OACP ) and Oxfordshire Care Homes Association are delighted to announce their merger, effective from 17 September 2024. This strategic partnership will create a unified voice to represent care providers across Oxfordshire, enhancing support for care homes, domiciliary care providers, and related health and social care services.

Charles Taylor will join the OACP Board and OACP will continue to support the activities and projects that Oxfordshire Care Homes Association have undertaken, including the annual Occupancy and Pricing Survey.

The merger will allow a greater focus on:

Greater Advocacy: Representing the needs and concerns of care providers with local authorities, regulators, and policymakers.
Enhanced Support Services: Offering a wider range of resources, training, and development opportunities for care providers.
Improved Collaboration: Facilitating stronger networking and collaboration across the care sector to improve care delivery and share best practices.
Unified Voice: Strengthening representation and influence to secure better outcomes for care providers and service users alike.
All existing members of both associations will benefit from this merger, enjoying access to expanded resources and a comprehensive support network. The leadership teams from both organisations have been working closely to ensure a seamless transition, and members can expect enhanced communication, training, and networking. OACP will be responsible for collecting Membership fees and will be in touch with existing and potential new members over the next few weeks.

For further information, please contact marketing@oacp.org.uk .

Free care and hospitality courses

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 17:24:20 GMT

FREE care and hospitality courses

Abingdon & Witney college has been awarded funding to provide Free Care, Hospitality and Green Skills courses.

Free courses in Green Skills and Care

These courses are aimed at people who are looking to get into Care or currently working in Care and would like to upskill. Courses are open to ANYONE in Oxfordshire, not just in the West.

Download the flyer

Detailed Care Courses overview

More flexible short-breaks service rolled out

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 17:35:07 GMT

'More flexible' short breaks service rolled out

Adults with learning disabilities in Oxfordshire have helped to redesign a service that will offer them more choice and flexibility around their short break options.

The adult learning disability short break programme has been coproduced with people who use the service and their families and carers. It will offer breaks in traditional settings and through more flexible community based solutions.

With the support of organisations including My Life My Choice and Oxfordshire Family Support Network , the adults’ short breaks service has been completely redesigned, helping to put people with learning disabilities in control of their support options.

Find out more on Oxfordshire County Council’s website .

OACP launches new site

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 14:05:27 GMT

OACP launches new website

10 years after OACP began its journey in supporting the local care market, OACP has a new website. With a clearer layout and more consistency across content, we hope this will be a valued experience for both Members and stakeholders. Additional content will be added over the coming weeks, so please let us know if you cannot find what you are looking for.