Self-directed support: improvement plan 2023 to 2027

How this Plan links with other work that affects SDS

This Plan sets out work that will take place to improve SDS over the coming years. However, it is important to acknowledge that while the Plan recognises a number of dependencies and supporting activities, it is not exhaustive (see section on rationale for selecting priorities) and therefore does not capture all the valuable work undertaken by local authorities, public bodies, professional associations and third sector organisations to improve SDS.

The publication of this plan comes at a time of immense pressure across the health and social care system. There are challenges in the recruitment and retention of the social care and social work workforce; the continued impact of Covid-19 and recovery; the cost of living crisis; and the impact of a very challenging budgetary and financial context.

This Plan seeks to recognise and complement all of the important and innovative work that is happening across the system to improve the quality and delivery of social care. Our partners involved in the development and implementation of this Plan are committed to proactively identifying and strengthening links with other related work to ensure coherence and efficiency.