Proposals for reorganising social care in 28 council areas launched for consultation

Mithran Samuel Local government reorganisation agenda to abolish two-tier structures enters next phase with consultations on replacing 28 councils with new unitary authorities The government has launched consultations on reorganising responsibility for social care in a sixth of England’s council areas. Under the plans, 28* of the 153 councils responsible for children’s and adult social care […]

OTs report increasing demand and struggle to meet needs

Mithran Samuel Four in five local authority occupational therapists have seen demand rise while half say are unable to provide equipment or adaptations when needed, in response to survey by professional body  Local authority occupational therapists (OTs) have seen increasing demand and are struggling to meet people’s needs. Those were among the findings of a […]

Overseas care staff face 15-year wait for settlement under government immigration plan

Policy dubbed ‘a grave injustice to the people who keep our care system standing’, as provider and worker bodies warn proposal will deepen sector’s workforce problems by Mithran Samuel on November 21, 2025 in Adults, Social work leaders, Workforce Overseas care workers face a 15-year wait – three times the current level – to be able to settle in the UK, under government […]

5 Practical Ways to Support Someone with Dementia

Dementia affects nearly 1 million people in the UK today, and this number is expected to rise to 1.6 million by 2040(Alzheimer’s Society, 2024). Behind every statistic is a person, someone’s parent, sibling, or friend, living with daily challenges but also capable of joy, independence, and connection. Supporting someone with dementia doesn’t always require grand gestures. Often, it’s […]

CQC shines a light on the challenges that people with dementia face

Published: 20 May 2025Page last updated: 20 May 2025 Today we have published a report on the experiences of individuals with dementia interacting with health and social care services in England, and how these services are responding. Based on direct engagement with people living with dementia and their loved ones, as well as analysis of a range […]

⚠️ Important Update: Changes to Sponsorship and Immigration Rules from July 2025

There are important changes to the UK’s immigration rules that will affect sponsored workers, including those in the health and social care sector. These changes were announced in the latest Government White Paper and Immigration Rule Updates and will come into effect from 22 July 2025. Please take a few minutes to read this carefully. 🔍 What’s Changing? 1. No New […]

Breakthrough Alzheimer’s drugs too pricey for NHS

James Gallagher Health and science correspondent @JamesTGallagher Two breakthrough Alzheimer’s drugs have been deemed far too expensive, for too little benefit, to be offered on the NHS. The medicines are the first to slow the disease, which may give people extra time living independently. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) concluded they […]

Why Care is One of the Most Rewarding Careers You Can Choose

IntroductionIn celebration of Employment Month, we’re shining a light on why working in care isn’t just a job — it’s a calling. At By Your Side, we believe that every care practitioner plays a crucial role in transforming lives, and we’re proud to offer a career path that’s rich with purpose, growth, and genuine reward. The […]

Dementia Action Week

Dementia Action Week is a national event that sees the UK public taking action to improve the lives of people affected by dementia. In 2025, the Week will take place on the 13th – 19th May. Stand up for your loved ones this Dementia Action Week Coronavirus has exposed the fact that families facing dementia […]

Dementia Action Week 2025: Taking Action with Compassion and Purpose

19–25 May 2025 By Sarah Parkins, Director of By Your Side This Dementia Action Week, running from 19 to 25 May 2025, we proudly stand with the Alzheimer’s Society in raising awareness and taking meaningful steps to support those living with dementia. This year’s campaign highlights the importance of early diagnosis—giving individuals and families the best chance to access support, […]