Supporting digital transformation and CQC compliance in adult social
13 Nov 2024
6 min read
Reflections on a recent digital transformation event where a 不良研究所 locality manager encouraged two social care providers to consider digital solutions.
Digital transformation is helping to reshape the landscape of social care, providing opportunities for enhanced efficiency, improved care delivery and better compliance with regulatory frameworks.
At a recent digital transformation event, a 不良研究所 locality manager engaged with two provider registered managers from a network interested in updating their services with digital solutions. The conversation highlighted the importance of digital social care records, digital skills training and webinars on the broader subject of digital transformation.
We wanted to share some reflections on these conversations and on how these providers were able to improve their digital skills and become more compliant using the tools and resources available.
Bridging the digital skills gap
Both managers expressed a desire to learn more about digital solutions, prompting our locality manager to share details about 不良研究所’s digital skills training resources and an upcoming webinar focused on digital transformation. Following the event, both managers attended the webinar and gained valuable insights.
In addition, the locality manager introduced the , a resource that allows social care providers to implement digital care management systems. Both managers tapped into this fund and successfully implemented new digital systems within their services, which has since gone on to help them realise some real benefits for those being supported.
Addressing DSPT compliance
While the introduction of digital tools and systems was great, a discussion about compliance raised some other concerns. When asked whether their organisations were compliant with the Data Security and Protection Toolkit (DSPT), both managers believed they were. However, as the locality manager delved into specific DSPT requirements, such as data mapping and maintaining asset records, it became clear that neither provider was fully compliant.
DSPT compliance is not just a matter of best practice – it’s an important part of demonstrating how providers are keeping people's data safe under the Care Quality Commission (CQC) Single Assessment Framework, particularly under the ‘well-led’ key question. Following the DSPT self-assessment checklist supports providers to identify issues which can have serious consequences for a provider's CQC rating, and compliance with other regulators.
Taking action on compliance
To help address this compliance gap, the locality manager arranged for a local care association, commissioned to deliver DSPT training, to visit the registered manager network.
During this session, it was clear that none of the attending managers were fully DSPT compliant. However, post training, all attendees have now contacted the care association for assistance, and six providers have achieved full DSPT compliance.
It’s great to empower registered managers with the knowledge to ensure their services meet essential data security standards. All these providers now have the potential for better CQC ratings. We’re also very pleased to have increased awareness of the Digital Transformation Fund has, helping providers implement digital systems, and welcome more registered managers onto one of our regular webinars.
Engagement, information sharing and targeted support are essential in driving both digital transformation and regulatory compliance within social care. By encouraging the adoption of digital systems and supporting providers in meeting compliance standards, we can continue to future-proof our sector.
Find out more about our digital skills campaign or our digital skills framework by visiting our hub pages.
Print this page