As Benjamin Zephaniah reminded us, “People need people.”
In an era dominated by conversations about AI, tech innovation, and change, this truth has never been more relevant. At the Outstanding Society (OS), our focus remains unwavering: delivering outstanding and compassionate care for the people we support in social care.
That begins with nurturing a workforce that must feel respected, valued, and empowered. Every action we take must reflect this commitment.
2025 has been a year of momentum and meaningful engagement for us. From vibrant sector events and parliamentary receptions to the thought-provoking Care Show Learning Lounge and industry panels, the OS has continued to champion collaboration and excellence across the social care sector.
These are some of our key takeaways from 2025:
Innovation with Integrity
The emergence of AI in social care is an exciting prospect—but one that demands caution. During our Care Show panel, AI developers echoed the phrase “walk slowly.”
While technological solutions are advancing rapidly, they must earn trust and demonstrate real-world value before widespread adoption.
For the OS, innovation will always be balanced with integrity and the human touch that defines outstanding care.
Cybersecurity and Culture
Our Cybersecurity Roundtable with headline partner Howden sparked lively debate and deep reflection, reminding us that safeguarding data is as critical as safeguarding dignity.
Culture, too, remains a cornerstone of quality. As Steve Gruenert and Todd Whitaker famously said, “The culture of any organisation is shaped by the worst behaviour the leader is willing to tolerate.”
At the OS, we strive to set the bar high—because excellence is not optional.
Celebrating Diversity
One of the year’s most memorable moments was attending Brighton and Manchester Pride alongside those we provide care to. These were days full of joy, inclusion, and solidarity-celebrations that will be talked about for years to come.
Our follow-up roundtable in Birmingham reinforced this commitment, amplifying voices from across the sector to create meaningful change for the rainbow family and beyond.
And of course, we had the privilege of attending the beautiful Hindu wedding ceremony of our fellow director Sanjay to his husband Harry, set in the grounds of his former care home in Oxfordshire—unforgettable!
Sharing Knowledge, Driving Change
The OS continues to speak to everyone involved in social care, from frontline carers to CEOs.
Through well-attended webinars with CQC and Skills for Care, representation at conferences hosted by Care England and the RCN, and judging at industry awards, we’ve taken every opportunity to share expertise and inspire improvement.
Our contribution extends to groundbreaking research, notably the VIVALDI project, where care home infection data is now flowing to researchers in ways that will shape future policy and practice.
We’ve also supported regional Social Care Nursing Advisory Councils (SCNACs), ensuring that nursing voices remain central to sector development.
Looking Ahead
With CQC’s consultation on its future inspection plans underway and providers preparing for new systems in 2026, the OS’s role has never been more vital.
In challenging economic and regulatory times, we want to stand as a beacon of collaboration, inspiration, and integrity—helping providers deliver their best for those who matter most.
Because at the heart of everything we do is a simple truth: People need people. And outstanding care starts with outstanding culture.