How likely is a general election to transform health and social care?
A long read by The King's Fund looks at how likely a general election is to transform health and social care. For social care, it says the story is one of nothing but disappointment in terms of general elections producing large-scale change. Given the current state of the public finances, the author suggests it would take an optimist to believe the social care cap will happen in 2025.
Facts and figures on health and social care
Those pouring over party manifestos may find the Nuffield Trust's facts and figures slides useful, and in particular what to look out for when considering social care commitments. The Health Foundation has analysed the various manifestos for their content on health and social care and called for a further £38 bn a year to revive the NHS.
E. coli advice issued amid rise in cases
The UK Health Security Agency has issued advice on the recent E.coli outbreak, with cases rising. As of 18 June, there have been 168 cases in England, 29 in Wales, 56 in Scotland and 3 in Northern Ireland (evidence suggests these acquired E.coli in England). Based on 227 cases, 38% were hospitalised. Product recall information notices issued by the Food Standards Agency as a precaution. Advice on treating Diarrhoea and vomiting - NHS (www.nhs.uk).
Sign up for Heat-Health Alerts
With warmer weather still a possibility this summer, sign up for alerts from the Weather-Health Alerting System which operates in England. See the List of Heat Health Alerts by region, Action cards for health and social care providers and the Homecare Association's Summer Planning Guidance (member log-in required). The Met Office also issues UK-wide weather warnings.
Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024
Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP have published a briefing on the above Act, which is expected to come into force later this year. Businesses which sell to consumers via the internet will need to take note of its provisions, for example, on banning fake reviews. Draft guidance has been published online (closing 12 July 2024) and further guidance is expected.
Are councils ready for a change of control?
The Local Government Elections on 2 May this year saw 16 councils affected by a change of control and six with no party in overall control, of the 98 council areas where voting took place. Anthony Collins comment in a short article on how councils can adapt to the changes. A further blog looks at the effect of the pre-General Election period on councils.
Health and safety basics for small businesses
The Health and Safety Executive has specific guidance for small businesses on health and safety basics, which looks at preparing a health and safety policy, managing risk, reporting accidents, and providing information and training, among other topics.
