Weekly Bulletin - Social Care, Disability, Residential and Healthcare Staffing
https://www.hiqa.ie/hiqa-news-updates/disability-services-publication-statement-15-january-2026
https://www.hiqa.ie/hiqa-news-updates
https://www.hiqa.ie/hiqa-news-updates/childrens-services-publication-statement-14-january-2026
https://www.hiqa.ie/hiqa-news-updates
https://www.hiqa.ie/hiqa-news-updates/older-peoples-services-publication-statement-13-january-2026
https://www.hiqa.ie/hiqa-news-updates
https://www.hiqa.ie/hiqa-news-updates/disability-services-publication-statement-18-december-2025
https://www.hiqa.ie/hiqa-news-updates
https://www.hiqa.ie/hiqa-news-updates/monitoring-inspections-healthcare-services-publication-statement-17-december-2025
https://www.hiqa.ie/hiqa-news-updates
https://www.hiqa.ie/hiqa-news-updates/international-protection-accommodation-service-centres-publication-statement-16
https://www.hiqa.ie/hiqa-news-updates
https://www.hiqa.ie/hiqa-news-updates/hiqa-publishes-hta-abdominal-aortic-aneurysm-screening-programme-men
https://www.hiqa.ie/hiqa-news-updates
https://www.hiqa.ie/hiqa-news-updates/disability-services-publication-statement-12-december-2025
https://www.hiqa.ie/hiqa-news-updates
https://www.hiqa.ie/hiqa-news-updates/hta-and-evidence-synthesis-bulletin-third-bulletin-2025
https://www.hiqa.ie/hiqa-news-updates
https://www.hiqa.ie/hiqa-news-updates/second-national-maternity-experience-survey-reveals-high-levels-respect-and-trust
https://www.hiqa.ie/hiqa-news-updates
https://www.hiqa.ie/hiqa-news-updates/older-peoples-services-publication-statement-9-december-2025
https://www.hiqa.ie/hiqa-news-updates
https://www.hiqa.ie/hiqa-news-updates/hiqa-launches-public-consultation-health-technology-assessment-immunisation
https://www.hiqa.ie/hiqa-news-updates
https://www.cqc.org.uk/about-us/improving-how-we-work/1225-update
https://www.cqc.org.uk/news
https://www.cqc.org.uk/news/cqc-continue-lead-programme-independent-care-education-and-treatment-reviews-icetrs
https://www.cqc.org.uk/news
https://www.cqc.org.uk/news/dr-arun-chopra-assumes-role-interim-chief-executive-cqc
https://www.cqc.org.uk/news
https://www.cqc.org.uk/press-release/cqc-rates-child-and-adolescent-mental-health-wards-cumbria-northumberland-tyne-and
https://www.cqc.org.uk/news
https://www.cqc.org.uk/press-release/cqc-takes-action-protect-people-vale-residential-care-home-kent
https://www.cqc.org.uk/news
https://www.cqc.org.uk/press-release/cqc-upgrades-rating-westgate-sea-care-home-outstanding
https://www.cqc.org.uk/news
https://www.england.nhs.uk/2026/01/nhs-staff-to-train-teachers-school-nurses-and-gps-to-spot-eating-disorders/
https://www.england.nhs.uk/news
https://www.england.nhs.uk/2026/01/nhs-to-offer-thousands-of-men-life-extending-prostate-cancer-drug/
https://www.england.nhs.uk/news
https://www.england.nhs.uk/2026/01/nhs-backs-ai-notetaking-free-up-more-face-to-face-care/
https://www.england.nhs.uk/news
https://www.england.nhs.uk/2026/01/second-biggest-drop-nhs-waiting-list-15-years-record-number-patients/
https://www.england.nhs.uk/news
https://www.england.nhs.uk/2026/01/bounce-back-in-winter-viruses-as-nhs-top-doctor-warns-the-worst-is-far-from-over/
https://www.england.nhs.uk/news
https://www.england.nhs.uk/2026/01/menopause-and-prostate-conditions-prioritised-for-nhss-new-online-hospital/
https://www.england.nhs.uk/news
https://www.england.nhs.uk/2026/01/nhs-helped-thousands-of-patients-get-home-for-christmas-despite-doctors-strike/
https://www.england.nhs.uk/news
https://www.england.nhs.uk/2026/01/nhs-far-from-complacent-despite-drop-in-flu-admissions/
https://www.england.nhs.uk/news
https://www.england.nhs.uk/2026/01/hundreds-of-thousands-of-young-children-now-to-be-protected-against-chickenpox/
https://www.england.nhs.uk/news
https://www.england.nhs.uk/2025/12/nhs-in-calmer-waters-but-not-out-of-danger-yet-as-winter-viruses-still-circulating/
https://www.england.nhs.uk/news
https://www.england.nhs.uk/2025/12/nhs-diabetes-prevention-scheme-helps-one-million-people/
https://www.england.nhs.uk/news
https://www.hiqa.ie/hiqa-news-updates/childrens-services-publication-statement-21-january-2026
https://www.hiqa.ie/hiqa-news-updates
https://www.cqc.org.uk/press-release/cqc-publishes-report-sheffield-city-councils-care-act-responsibilities
https://www.cqc.org.uk/news
https://www.cqc.org.uk/press-release/cqc-takes-action-protect-people-halifax-care-home-0
https://www.cqc.org.uk/news
https://www.cqc.org.uk/press-release/cqc-rates-greater-manchester-rehabilitation-services-outstanding
https://www.cqc.org.uk/news
HIQA's publication statement for 15 January 2026 discusses the current state of disability services in Ireland, highlighting ongoing compliance with regulations. The report includes insights into inspection outcomes and identifies areas for improvement in service delivery.
NHS England supports the implementation of AI notetaking technology, aiming to reduce administrative burdens on healthcare professionals and allow them to dedicate more time to direct patient care. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance efficiency within the healthcare system, particularly in light of ongoing staffing challenges.
HIQA's latest publication statement for children's services on January 14, 2026, outlines recent inspections and findings regarding children's residential care. The report emphasizes the importance of safeguarding and the overall quality of care provided across various centers.
The HIQA publication statement from 12 December 2025 provides an overview of inspections conducted in designated centres for disability services. It highlights the compliance levels of various centres, noting areas of strength and concern among service providers.
The NHS diabetes prevention scheme has successfully supported over one million individuals in making lifestyle changes to reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The program focuses on personalized coaching and education regarding diet and physical activity, which have proven effective in lowering blood sugar levels and improving overall health outcomes.
NHS England announces a significant vaccination program aimed at protecting hundreds of thousands of young children from chickenpox. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance public health and reduce the incidence of this infectious disease among the pediatric population.
NHS England's chief medical officer has issued a warning regarding a resurgence of winter viruses, indicating that the worst may still be ahead. The warning comes as the NHS braces for increased pressure during the colder months, which may impact healthcare staffing and the delivery of social care services.
The third bulletin from the Health Technology Assessment (HTA) and Evidence Synthesis outlines key findings and recommendations relevant to healthcare staffing in Ireland. It highlights the importance of evidence-based practices in improving care delivery and addresses challenges in the sector related to staffing shortages and training needs.
The Second National Maternity Experience Survey indicates a generally positive experience among women regarding respect and trust in maternity care. However, it underscores the necessity for improved communication and support during the postnatal period to enhance the overall maternity experience.
HIQA has released a statement regarding older people's services, detailing the findings from recent inspections. The statement highlights the compliance levels across various centers, with specific attention to areas requiring improvement and the overall standards of care provided.
NHS England has announced the launch of a new online hospital that focuses on menopause and prostate conditions. This initiative aims to improve access to specialized care for these commonly overlooked health issues, providing patients with digital consultations and support.
HIQA's publication statement on 17 December 2025 provides an overview of the recent monitoring inspections conducted across various healthcare services. The report details the compliance levels with regulatory standards and highlights areas of concern regarding service delivery and safety protocols.
NHS England reports a significant reduction in the number of patients waiting for treatment, marking the second largest drop in NHS waiting lists in the past 15 years. Despite the decrease, the number of patients remains at a record high, prompting concerns over the ongoing pressures faced by health services.
HIQA has initiated a public consultation regarding a health technology assessment focused on the immunisation against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). This consultation aims to gather insights and opinions from stakeholders to inform the assessment process.
Dr Arun Chopra has been appointed as the Interim Chief Executive of the Care Quality Commission (CQC), bringing extensive experience in health and social care regulation. His appointment follows the departure of the previous chief executive and aims to ensure stability and continuity in the leadership of the CQC during this transitional period.
NHS England has announced its support for AI notetaking technology aimed at streamlining administrative processes in healthcare. By implementing AI solutions, the NHS aims to reduce the time healthcare professionals spend on paperwork, thereby allowing them to dedicate more time to direct patient care. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in healthcare delivery.
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has upgraded the rating of Westgate-on-Sea care home to 'outstanding'. This decision comes after a recent inspection where the care home demonstrated exceptional standards of care and support for its residents. The CQC highlighted the home’s commitment to providing high-quality care and its effective management practices.
HIQA's publication statement for children's services on 21 January 2026 outlines the findings from recent inspections and assessments. The report emphasizes the importance of safeguarding measures and the quality of care provided in children's residential facilities. It highlights areas of compliance while also addressing significant concerns that need to be remedied to enhance the safety and well-being of children in care.
HIQA published its statement on older people's services, detailing the outcomes of inspections conducted in various care settings. The report indicates significant compliance with care standards, although some facilities faced challenges related to staffing and governance.
HIQA has published a statement regarding the International Protection Accommodation Service centres, detailing their inspections and evaluations. The report highlights compliance levels and areas for improvement within these centres, focusing on the care provided to individuals in need of protection.
NHS England reports a stabilization in healthcare pressures, acknowledging the ongoing circulation of winter viruses that pose risks to health services. While the situation is calmer compared to previous months, officials warn that the healthcare system is not yet out of danger and continue to monitor the impact on patient care.
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has outlined its strategic progress in 2025, focusing on improving care quality and regulatory practices. Key initiatives include enhancing inspection processes, increasing transparency in reporting, and fostering collaboration with care providers to ensure better outcomes for service users. This report emphasizes the importance of adapting to emerging challenges in adult social care and maintaining high standards of service delivery.
NHS England has announced a new initiative where NHS staff will train educators and healthcare professionals, including teachers, school nurses, and GPs, to identify early signs of eating disorders in children and young people. This proactive approach aims to enhance early intervention and support for affected individuals, addressing a growing concern within mental health services.
HIQA has published a Health Technology Assessment (HTA) evaluating the abdominal aortic aneurysm screening programme for men. The HTA aims to assess the effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and impact on health outcomes of the screening, which is intended to reduce mortality from this serious condition.
NHS England emphasizes that although flu admissions have decreased, the organization remains vigilant and proactive in its efforts to manage public health. They stress the importance of continued monitoring and preparedness to handle any potential resurgence of flu cases.
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has taken action to protect residents at The Vale Residential Care Home in Kent. Concerns were raised regarding the quality of care provided, leading to an urgent inspection. The CQC found significant issues including inadequate staffing levels and poor management practices, which posed a risk to residents' safety and wellbeing.
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has announced its ongoing commitment to lead the Independent Care (Education) and Treatment Reviews (ICETRs) program. This initiative focuses on reviewing care and treatment provided to individuals with complex needs, ensuring that they receive appropriate support and care tailored to their specific circumstances.
Despite ongoing doctors' strikes, NHS England successfully facilitated the discharge of thousands of patients in time for Christmas. This initiative aimed to ensure that patients could return home for the holidays, highlighting the resilience and commitment of the healthcare staff during challenging conditions.
The HIQA publication statement released on 18 December 2025 presents findings from recent inspections of designated disability services. The report highlights compliance levels across various centers and identifies key areas for improvement.
The NHS has announced it will provide a life-extending drug for thousands of men suffering from prostate cancer. This initiative aims to improve treatment access and outcomes for patients, reflecting a growing emphasis on advanced cancer care within the healthcare system.
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has conducted an inspection of child and adolescent mental health wards at Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust, resulting in a rating of 'requires improvement'. The report highlights areas where the trust needs to enhance its care delivery and address issues related to patient safety and staff support. CQC emphasizes the importance of meeting the needs of young patients to ensure their safety and well-being.
HIQA's publication statement from 15 January 2026 provides insights into the status of disability services across designated centres in Ireland. The report highlights recent inspections, focusing on compliance with regulatory standards and the quality of care provided to residents. Key areas of concern include governance and safeguarding practices.
HIQA's publication statement for children's services highlights the results of recent inspections. The report emphasizes compliance levels and identifies areas needing improvement in children's residential care settings. The findings serve as a crucial update for stakeholders in children's services across Ireland.
NHS England has announced a new initiative aimed at training educators, school nurses, and general practitioners (GPs) to identify the signs of eating disorders in young people. This program is part of a broader effort to improve mental health support for children and adolescents, addressing the rising prevalence of eating disorders in the UK. The training will focus on early detection and intervention strategies to help provide timely care and support for affected individuals.
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has taken regulatory action to protect residents at The Vale Residential Care Home in Kent due to concerns about the quality of care provided. The action includes measures to ensure that the care home meets the required standards for safety and effectiveness, following inspections that revealed significant shortcomings.
NHS England reports that while the health service is experiencing a period of reduced pressure, it remains cautious as winter viruses continue to circulate. Healthcare leaders express concerns about ongoing challenges in staffing and resource availability, which could impact care delivery during peak seasons.
HIQA's publication statement for January 14, 2026, outlines the findings from recent inspections in children's services. The report emphasizes the importance of safeguarding and regulatory compliance, detailing both strengths and areas needing improvement across various residential care facilities.
The HTA and Evidence Synthesis Bulletin presents findings from the third bulletin released in 2025, focusing on the integration of health technology assessment (HTA) and evidence synthesis in healthcare decision-making. It highlights the importance of using robust evidence to inform practices and improve service delivery within the healthcare sector.
Dr. Arun Chopra has taken over as the Interim Chief Executive of the Care Quality Commission (CQC), succeeding Ian Trenholm. Dr. Chopra, who has been with the CQC since 2018, aims to lead the organization in ensuring high standards of care across health and social care services in England.
NHS England has announced a significant public health initiative to protect hundreds of thousands of young children against chickenpox. The new vaccination program aims to reduce the incidence of this common childhood illness, which can lead to serious complications. Health officials highlight the importance of immunization in preventing outbreaks and safeguarding children's health.
NHS England has announced a new initiative to implement AI-powered notetaking tools in healthcare settings. This development aims to reduce the administrative burden on healthcare professionals, allowing them to focus more on direct patient care. The AI technology is expected to streamline documentation processes and improve overall service efficiency.
HIQA's publication statement for 18 December 2025 provides insights into the inspection outcomes for designated disability services. The report highlights both areas of compliance and non-compliance across various centres, emphasizing the importance of governance and safeguarding in service delivery.
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has rated the child and adolescent mental health wards at Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust as 'requires improvement'. Concerns were raised regarding the safety, effectiveness, and leadership within the wards. The CQC highlighted the need for the trust to enhance safeguarding practices and improve staff training to better support young patients.
NHS England has announced plans to provide a new life-extending drug for prostate cancer to thousands of men. This initiative is expected to significantly improve the quality of life for patients, with the drug being made available through the NHS shortly. The decision follows extensive clinical trials demonstrating the drug's effectiveness in extending survival rates for prostate cancer patients.
The HIQA publication statement outlines the findings of the inspections conducted on the International Protection Accommodation Service centres. The report details compliance with safety and care standards, highlighting both areas of success and concern within the centres.
The NHS diabetes prevention scheme has reached a significant milestone by supporting one million individuals in reducing their risk of developing diabetes. This initiative aims to improve health outcomes through lifestyle changes and early intervention, contributing positively to public health in the UK.
NHS England has launched a new online hospital focusing on menopause and prostate conditions. This initiative aims to enhance access to healthcare services, addressing the specific needs of patients experiencing these conditions. The online platform is designed to provide patients with comprehensive care options, including consultations and treatment plans, while also alleviating pressure on traditional healthcare facilities.
The Care Quality Commission has upgraded the rating of the Westgate-on-Sea care home to 'outstanding' following a comprehensive inspection. This change reflects significant improvements in the quality of care provided, with inspectors noting exceptional standards of service and resident satisfaction.
HIQA's publication statement from 17 December 2025 presents the findings from recent monitoring inspections across various healthcare services. The report highlights compliance levels and areas needing improvement, focusing on safeguarding practices, staffing levels, and overall service quality.
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has announced its ongoing commitment to lead the Independent Care (Education) and Treatment Reviews (ICETRs) programme. This initiative aims to ensure better outcomes for individuals receiving care and treatment, by focusing on education and regulatory frameworks that enhance the quality of care provided to vulnerable populations.
The NHS successfully facilitated the discharge of thousands of patients just in time for Christmas, despite ongoing strikes by doctors. The organization coordinated efforts to ensure that patients received timely care and were able to return home for the holiday season, highlighting the resilience and commitment of healthcare staff during challenging circumstances.
HIQA has released a Health Technology Assessment (HTA) detailing the abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening programme for men. The assessment evaluates the effectiveness and impact of the screening process, which aims to reduce mortality rates associated with AAA. It highlights the importance of early detection and the benefits of implementing a nationwide screening program.
HIQA's publication statement from 13 January 2026 outlines the findings from recent inspections of older people's services. The report emphasizes the importance of compliance with regulations and standards, highlighting areas where care services met expectations and where improvements are necessary to ensure quality care for older individuals.
The Second National Maternity Experience Survey indicates that while there is a high level of respect and trust in maternity services, there are significant gaps in communication and postnatal support. The findings suggest that healthcare providers need to enhance their communication strategies and support services for new mothers to improve the overall maternity care experience.
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) outlines its progress in rebuilding efforts throughout 2025, focusing on enhancing regulation and oversight in adult social care. Key initiatives include improvements in inspection processes, better engagement with service users, and a commitment to transparency in reporting outcomes. The CQC emphasizes the importance of regulatory effectiveness to ensure high-quality care across the sector.
Despite a notable decrease in flu admissions this season, NHS England remains vigilant about potential future surges. Officials emphasize the importance of continued public health measures and vaccination efforts to maintain low admission rates and protect vulnerable populations.
HIQA has initiated a public consultation regarding a health technology assessment that focuses on the immunisation against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). The consultation aims to gather input from stakeholders to inform the assessment process and evaluate the potential benefits and risks associated with the immunisation programme.
The HIQA published a statement detailing the findings from recent inspections of disability services. The report noted compliance levels and areas for improvement across various residential centres. It emphasized the need for ongoing oversight and enhancement of care quality to ensure that residents' needs are met effectively.
NHS England reports a significant reduction in waiting lists, marking the second largest drop in the past 15 years. Despite the decrease, the NHS is facing record levels of patients seeking care, highlighting ongoing challenges within the healthcare system.
HIQA released its publication statement on older people's services, outlining recent inspections and regulatory compliance across various residential centres. The report highlights areas of good practice as well as concerns regarding safeguarding and care quality that need addressing.
The NHS is experiencing a resurgence in winter viruses, leading to warnings from top officials that the worst is not yet over. The increased cases are putting significant pressure on healthcare services, with hospitals facing challenges in managing patient care amidst rising admissions. Experts emphasize the importance of vaccination and public health measures to mitigate the impact.
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has taken action to protect residents at a Halifax care home following serious concerns regarding the quality of care. The measures include increased monitoring and inspections due to reported incidents that could jeopardize the safety and welfare of residents. The CQC emphasizes its commitment to ensuring that care services are safe, effective, and provide a high standard of care.