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Our research

Skills for Care commissions, supports and delivers research to help achieve our vision and mission.

Improving the social care system

We work to ensure the adult social care system is well funded, supports people to live the lives that they choose, and attracts the right people to the workforce. We do this by gathering and analysing workforce intelligence data through our Adult Social Care Workforce Data Set (ASC-WDS), using our intelligence and insight from the sector to support local and national partners in strategy and policy development, and supporting social care within Integrated Care Systems (ICSs).

Context

Learn more about why it's so important for the adult social care sector to have a Workforce Strategy. With the Strategy we can ensure we have enough of the right people with the right skills to provide the best care and support for the people who draw on it.

Executive summary

This Workforce Strategy was developed by Skills for Care in collaboration with the adult social care sector – including people who draw on care and support. It seeks to set out where we are now, the drivers and case for change, and where we want to make changes to build the workforce of the future.

Glossary

Neighbourhood health services

The role of adult social care in the Neighbourhood Health Service in England.

Train

Learning and development is key to the provision of high quality care. Learn about the priorities identified in the Workforce Strategy.

Race Equity Reference Group

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A whole systems approach to commissioning

Learn how market shaping, strategic workforce planning and financial planning work together in a whole systems approach to commissioning adult social care. Discover the 'three-legged stool' model and why balancing these elements is essential to meeting people's needs.

Employment Rights Act 2025

Understand the Employment Rights Act 2025 and what it means for adult social care employers and the workforce, including key changes to employment law, workforce rights and preparing for upcoming reforms.