Kevin Humphrys FIoL, Chief Executive Officer, Oakland Care Group
As we navigate through the unpredictable currents of our present climate, leadership in social care has never been more critical. I am Kevin Humphrys, CEO of Oakland Care Group, and I have dedicated over 13 years to senior leadership in care, maintaining a close connection with everyday operations and advocating for the voice of social care providers.
Leadership, at all levels, in social care plays an integral role in shaping the quality-of-care delivery. In my role at Oakland Care Group and as a board member of West Sussex Partners in Care (WSPiC), I’ve seen firsthand how effective leadership can drive positive change and transformation in care services.
Leadership in the Time of Crisis
The current climate has underscored the need for decisive, compassionate, and inclusive leadership. The pandemic has illuminated the vulnerabilities in our social care system, and the responsibility of addressing these issues lies with leaders at all levels.
As leaders, we must be agile and adaptable, willing to make tough decisions that prioritise the welfare of those under our care. We must also inspire and motivate our teams to deliver high-quality care amid challenging circumstances. Above all, we must have the courage to advocate for the rights and needs of our residents and staff, ensuring their voices are heard at the highest levels of government and society.
Technology and Quality of Care
One area where leadership can significantly impact is the integration of technology in care delivery. In our digital age, technology has the potential to revolutionise care provision, enhancing residents’ quality of life and streamlining operations.
At Oakland Care Group, we have embraced technology, recognising its potential to provide personalised, efficient, and engaging care. From introducing AI assistive technologies to our electronic care planning system which communicates with other devices, our approach has always been driven by a commitment to improving the lives of those we serve.
Advocacy and the National Voice
A crucial aspect of leadership in social care is advocacy. We must use our positions to amplify the voices of those in our care, advocating for better legislation, funding, and societal understanding of social care.
In my role on the WSPiC board, I strive to represent the interests of care providers in West Sussex, working to influence policy and drive improvements in the sector. I believe that if we, as leaders, unite our voices, we can exert a powerful influence on the national discourse surrounding social care.
Final Thoughts
Leadership in social care is not about titles or positions; it is about making a difference. It is about advocating for those who may not have a voice, championing the use of technology to enhance care, and consistently striving for excellence in care delivery, even in the face of adversity.
As leaders, we need to remember that our actions and decisions have far-reaching impacts, affecting not only the lives of those in our care but also the broader landscape of social care. Now, more than ever, we must rise to the challenge and lead with courage, compassion, and conviction.
To quote Peter Drucker, “Management is doing things right; leadership is doing the right things.” In these challenging times, let us strive to do the right things for our residents, our staff, and our sector. Let us lead in a way that truly makes a difference.
