This week on CTRL + Care, Michelle is joined byLewis Stewart from techUK while Katie’s away, for a fast-paced rundown of the digital care stories shaping the sector.

They discuss a new report on the future of social care and why data, standards, and interoperability are still holdingprogress back. The conversation also explores ADASS’s new AI playbook, cutting through the hype to focus on responsible, people-centred use of AI thatsupports care rather than replacing it.

Lewis shares what techUK is working on in adultsocial care, including the challenge of scaling innovation and bringing providers and suppliers together. The episode ends with a Cyber Squirrels story on accessible tech in a deaf-run café, showing how digital can enable inclusionand connection.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Digital Care and Tech UK

02:58 The Importance of Data and Digital Infrastructure in Social Care

06:06 AI in Social Care: Opportunities and Ethical Considerations

08:52 The Role of AI Playbook in Enhancing Care Quality

12:01 Lessons from Birmingham City Council's IT Failure

14:55 Interview with Lewis Stewart: Insights on Social Care

18:05 The Future of Technology in Social Care

21:11 Closing Thoughts and Cyber Squirrel Segment

Links:

• SCIE report on raising national standards incare
  
• 
  WM ADASS AI playbook
• Oracle – Birmingham latest
  
• 
  Deaf run café London