New white paper urges digital transformation to secure NHS's future

A new white paper has been released by techUK’s Social Care Working Group. Titled Why digital adult social care transformation is central to the future of the NHS, it highlights the role of digital innovation in shaping the NHS’s long-term plans. The document calls for urgent collaboration to drive change in adult social care. The paper presents real-world case studies and deployment evidence from organisations across the sector. Contributions include insights from companies such as Civica and Tunstall, alongside expert perspectives. Sir David Pearson CBE, chair of TEC Quality, emphasises in the foreword that digital solutions can greatly improve support for those needing social care, health, and housing services.

It argues that existing prevention funding should be redirected and pooled to support this transformation. The success of the NHS 10-Year Plan, the paper states, hinges on progress in adult social care. While the required technologies are already mature and in use, the missing piece is a coordination mechanism to scale them effectively.

To address this, the white paper outlines key principles for driving digital transformation. It also stresses that stakeholders must work together to implement and expand these solutions widely. The white paper sets out a clear case for change. It states that with the right coordination and investment, digital transformation in adult social care can support the NHS’s future. Stakeholders are now urged to take collective action to make this a reality.