Tariq Raja, Executive Director of CareTech Foundation on shifting the narrative for social care.
Social care is frequently depicted as a sector in crisis—underfunded, undervalued, and stretched to its limits. However, this narrative overlooks the immense impact social care has on individuals, families, and communities. At CareTech Foundation, we believe it is time to shift this conversation and focus on the remarkable stories of resilience, innovation, and transformation that characterise the social care landscape.
While there are undeniable challenges within social care—pressures on funding, staffing shortages, and rising demand—there are also significant opportunities. The social care sector is teeming with passionate professionals, dedicated carers, and innovative solutions that effect change daily. This sector not only supports vulnerable individuals but also drives social mobility, enhances community well-being, and contributes positively to the lives of those working or living in care, as well as their broader networks.
At the heart of social care are the countless caregivers who provide essential services, often going above and beyond their duties without adequate recognition. However, a silver lining of the Covid-19 pandemic was the spotlight it cast on these caregivers, helping to reshape the narrative surrounding their remarkable work. From assisting the elderly in maintaining their independence to empowering individuals with disabilities to achieve their full potential, these professionals are true heroes. The shift in recognition since the pandemic, although long overdue, has never been more deserved or welcomed.
The CareTech Foundation continuously seeks opportunities to empower the sector and those within it. This is why the Foundation was created. This mission is a fundamental pillar of our work and is rooted in uniting two sectors that have historically not collaborated effectively: the voluntary sector and social care. Both sectors drive change by engaging directly with their beneficiary bases. Charitable initiatives like the Foundation are, in many respects, the best fit for social care providers because they understand the unique challenges and opportunities within the field, importantly, they understand user-led delivery.
Championing Social Care, which the Foundation proudly hosted, exemplifies how receptive the sector is to new approaches in unifying support. Since its inception, Championing Social Care has rapidly gained independence through its successful fundraising efforts for various worthy causes, including recent events like the Fundraising Ball, which raised over £201,000 for the Care Workers Charity and Marie Curie UK. These events not only highlight important initiatives but also celebrate the unsung heroes of the sector through programmes like Care Sector’s Got Talent, which provides a platform for those working and living in care to share their hidden talent.
Although the narrative within the care sector is evolving, it is difficult to avoid some longstanding challenges, such as recruitment and retention. However, with the right attitude and passion, these issues can be addressed and improved. A prime example is the Social Care Leaders Scheme (SCLS), which brought together leaders from across the sector and stakeholders in graduate recruitment to advocate for a pioneering initiative. Drawing inspiration from successful programmes like Teach First, this scheme aims to attract fresh talent and inject dynamic leadership into social care. Another noteworthy example of changing the recruitment narrative was the Foundation’s partnership with Breaking Barriers, which created a tailored recruitment pathway to train and recruit refugees into the sector—an area that surveys show is highly desired by this demographic. This initiative is a timely response to the growing overreliance on overseas recruitment, which often presents more challenges than opportunities.
The narrative outside the sector is just as important as within it, especially around recruitment and retention. For this reason, we offer the Staff Hardship Fund, in addition to our Community and Match-Funding grants. The Staff Hardship Fund provides essential support during challenging times, acknowledging that many care workers experience financial stress due to the unpredictable nature of shift work. By offering financial assistance, we aim to break the cycle of hardship and help staff regain stability and independence. Likewise, our Community and Match-Funding grants empower those living and working in care to make a bigger impact around their own families, friends and passions. By offering these grants, we change perception of the sector and highlight the selfless values held by social care staff.
One of the most exciting developments in social care is how technology and innovation are shaping the future of the sector. At CareTech Foundation, we have witnessed how digital solutions—such as telecare, remote monitoring systems, and assistive technologies—are empowering both caregivers and service users. These advancements enable more personalised care, reduce pressure on traditional care systems, and create more sustainable solutions for the future. Through our work, we are also observing the rise of innovative partnerships that bridge the gap between social care, health, and education. These collaborations drive forward-thinking models of care that prioritise holistic support, offering individuals a more integrated and dignified experience. This momentum shifts the narrative from reactive care to proactive, life-enhancing services.
At CareTech Foundation, we are proud to be part of the movement that is transforming how we perceive social care. By highlighting the sector’s contributions, amplifying the voices of carers, and fostering innovation, we are working to create a narrative that celebrates the positive impact of social care on society. It is time to recognise the sector not as a burden but as a crucial component of the social fabric that underpins our communities. Together, we can change the narrative for social care, ensuring it receives the respect and recognition it deserves.
@CareTechFdn
caretechfoundation.org.uk
