Explore the Leadership Qualities Framework, a practical guide outlining the skills and behaviours needed for effective leadership in adult social care.
Updated in March 2026, there is a strengthened focus on co‑production, equality, inclusion, and digital confidence, offering a practical guide for anyone working in social care.
The Leadership Qualities Framework (LQF) helps individuals and organisations understand what effective leadership looks like in practice, supporting high‑quality, person‑centred care.
Aligned with the Care Workforce Pathway, the framework recognises that leadership is demonstrated through behaviours and actions, not just job titles. Everyone has the potential to show leadership, regardless of their role or level within an organisation.
The framework sets out five dimensions of leadership, providing a clear description of what effective leadership looks like across adult social care, from frontline care roles to senior leadership positions.
It can be used to support self-reflection, supervision, recruitment, learning and development, and workforce planning. Whether you're developing new managers or strengthening leadership across your organisation, the framework offers a practical approach to building confident, capable leaders for the future.
The framework also incorporates the Management and Leadership Code for Health and Social Care, developed by NHS England in partnership with Skills for Care and sector partners. The Code outlines the values and behaviours that help leaders create safe, inclusive and high-quality care environments where people can thrive.
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A practical guide to the key qualities of effective leaders at all levels within the sector.
Self-assessment tool
Use the self‑assessment tool to reflect on your strengths, identify development needs, and plan your growth, there's a a self assesment tool for everybody:
Embedding allyship
Allyship is about the actions and behaviours we do to support and advocate for others and is a critical skill that shapes a truly inclusive workplace. As a leader, it’s important to demonstrate an ongoing commitment to support equity, inclusion, and justice in the workplace.
Our allyship resources help you embed allyship in everyday leadership and team culture.