New framework launched to strengthen behaviour change practice in adult social care

Skills for Care has launched a new Behaviour Change Competencies Framework for the Adult Social Care Workforce, developed with the Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH) in partnership with people working across the sector.

Behaviour change is part of everyday practice in adult social care. From supporting people to stay active or manage anxiety, to making decisions about independence and safety, care workers help people make meaningful changes every day.

The framework builds on what staff are already doing, helping to make good practice more visible, consistent, and supported across different roles and settings, and supporting care staff to feel more confident.

The framework provides a clear structure to:

• improve health outcomes by reducing risk

• address safeguarding concerns

• promote independence and dignity, and enhance quality of life

• recognise and build on existing good practice

• make behaviour change skills more visible and consistent

• create a shared language across roles and organisations

• support confidence, development, and progression.

It is designed to strengthen practice without introducing new requirements or adding unnecessary burden.

Developed to support staff at all levels - including frontline care workers, managers, leaders, educators, and learning and development teams - the framework also supports delivery of the Care Workforce Pathway, helping people build skills and improve practice throughout their careers.

Dr Jane Brightman, Director of Workforce Development, Skills for Care, says:

“This framework recognises the skilled, thoughtful work that is already happening every day in adult social care. By making behaviour change more visible and giving staff practical support, it will help strengthen practice and improve outcomes for people who draw on care and support.”

William Roberts, Chief Executive, Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH) says:

“The social care workforce are already having a significant impact on people's health. Every day, they help people live with dignity and independence and prevent ill health.

“This framework is a gamechanger for the social care workforce. It will give staff the confidence and skills they need to make an even bigger impact on the health of those around them.”

As well as supporting good care and positive experiences, the framework helps services describe and evidence good practice in line with Care Quality Commission (CQC) expectations.

The Behaviour Change Competencies Framework for Adult Social Care and accompanying how-to guide are available on the Skills for Care website.

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