As I step away from The Outstanding Society , I do so with a tremendous sense of pride in what we have achieved together, and with genuine gratitude to everyone who has played a part in its journey. As a founding member in 2014 we had a simple vision which was to be a positive voice for social care and to share best practice. 12 years later The OS is now a driving force but has never strayed from its original ethos.
When you bring together people who share a passion for social care, a belief in the difference that outstanding care makes, and a determination to see the sector recognised for the value it brings, something powerful can happen. The Outstanding Society has demonstrated just that. I’m am so fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with a team of directors and the wider OS team, who not only have shared values but have also become great friends which is why we work together so well.
At a time when the sector can too often find itself defined by its challenges, pressures and shortcomings, it is more important than ever that we tell a fuller story: one that recognises the dedication of those working in care, the commitment of providers, the expertise of our leaders, and the extraordinary difference that good care makes to people’s lives.
That voice does not belong to any one individual or organisation. It belongs to all of us who believe that social care deserves to be understood, respected and heard.
I would like to offer my sincere thanks to everyone who has contributed to The Outstanding Society. To those who have given their time, shared their experience, challenged thinking, offered support and worked collaboratively to move our collective ambitions forward, thank you. Your willingness to engage, your generosity of spirit and your shared commitment have helped build something meaningful.
Organisations such as ours are only as strong as the people behind them and there are many, far too many to mention. However I cannot write this without saying a very personal thank you to Martin Green at Care England who has supported us from day one, Deborah Sturdy for all her work and dedication and Laura Shallcross for spearheading the Vivaldi project and including The OS.
Of course, there is still much to do. Social care continues to face significant challenges, and the need for a confident, constructive and united voice has never been greater. We must continue to champion quality, celebrate excellence, share learning and ensure that the experiences of those receiving care, their families and the people delivering that care remain central to the conversation.
As I leave The Outstanding Society, I do so with appreciation for the relationships built, the conversations shared and the progress made. I am proud to have played a part in helping establish a platform through which the sector can come together, demonstrate its strengths and contribute positively to the wider debate about the future of social care.
I wish The Outstanding Society, its members and all those who continue its work every success for the future. Much Love to you all. James
A Heartfelt Thank You to James Rycroft
As we say farewell to James Rycroft as a Director of The Outstanding Society, we want to take a moment to celebrate his remarkable contribution and thank him for the difference he has made.
Since helping to found The Outstanding Society alongside Camilla Trimble, Russell Leese and Zoë Fry, James has played a pivotal role in shaping the organisation into the respected and supportive community it is today. His passion for excellence, particularly in dementia care, and his commitment to sharing knowledge and supporting others have inspired countless colleagues across the sector.
Through his leadership at Vida Healthcare and his generous contribution to The Outstanding Society, James has championed innovation, collaboration and workforce development, always with a focus on improving the lives of those who draw on care and support.
While stepping down from his formal role, James remains a valued friend and respected voice within our community. His impact will be felt for many years to come.
On behalf of the Board, members and wider network, thank you, James, for your vision, leadership, friendship and unwavering commitment to excellence. We wish you every success for the future and look forward to continuing our journey together.
To show just how much James means to those around him, we invited his colleagues, friends and family to record messages expressing their appreciation and best wishes.
