COVER STORY


first for the sector. Boards must treat cyber risk as seriously as safeguarding and clinical risk.


DATA SHARING STILL SLOWING PROGRESS ON INTEGRATION


Progress on data sharing across health and social care remains slow. Some providers now contribute to shared care records, but two-way data exchange is inconsistent. Many providers still manage multiple portals, one-way information flows and repeated data entry.


As the Care Quality Commission noted in State of Care: “Data capabilities have improved in the last year but remain inconsistent, with ongoing challenges in data sharing and linkage across partners.”


The government’s January 2025 announcement set out ambitions for real-time data sharing across social care, GP and hospital settings, as well as full digitisation of providers by the end of the Parliament. The goal is welcome, but progress will depend on sustained support, not just ambitions.


DIGITAL INCLUSION AND THE HUMAN IMPACT OF TECHNOLOGY


Digital exclusion still affects many older adults, people with learning disabilities and members of the care workforce. Issues such as poor connectivity, inaccessible apps and low digital confidence continue to block progress.


may bring clearer expectations for suppliers and more joined- up approaches across health and social care.


DSPT REFRESH RAISES EXPECTATIONS


A refreshed DSPT is expected in 2026. It will likely set higher expectations for cyber resilience, supplier oversight and data protection. The emphasis will shift further away from form completion towards good implementation, supported by practical tools and clearer guidance.


CYBER SECURITY PRESSURES CONTINUE TO GROW


Cyber attacks will continue to increase. Providers will need greater confidence that their systems and suppliers can withstand them. Cyber training will need to be continuous. Cyber risk should sit on board agendas, not in IT inboxes.


RESPONSIBLE AND TRANSPARENT AI BECOMES ESSENTIAL


Use of AI will grow across rostering, documentation support and sensor-based tools. Accountability, transparency and co-production will become more important. Agentic AI is likely to emerge, requiring new conversations about oversight and governance.


DIGITAL INCLUSION DEMANDS STRONGER ACTION


Digital exclusion will remain a major challenge. 2026 will require greater emphasis on accessibility, digital skills and designing tools that work for those who rely on them most.


“Cyber security is no longer just technical. It is now a leadership responsibility. Providers must protect personal and


financial data if they are to claim they offer safe, high-quality care.”


But when designed well, digital tools support independence and dignity. Ninety-seven-year-old Rosalie uses a simple sensor- based monitoring system that requires no internet. It reassures her family without intrusive checks and helps her remain at home. Technology designed with people in mind continues to show real value.


DATA SKILLS STILL HOLDING BACK PROGRESS


Many providers struggle to extract or interpret data from their systems. Limited data confidence makes it harder to analyse trends, demonstrate outcomes and make decisions. Strengthening these skills will be essential if providers are to gain full value from digital tools.


PREDICTIONS FOR 2026 INTEROPERABILITY MOVES UP THE AGENDA


Interoperability will become increasingly important. Providers want fewer portals, simpler processes and more reliable data sharing. With national ambitions for a shared platform, 2026


13


MARKET CONSOLIDATION INCREASES PROCUREMENT PRESSURES


The supplier market is continuing to consolidate. Providers will need to buy carefully, focusing not only on features but on interoperability, exit plans, supplier stability and security. Decisions made now will shape digital capability for years to come.


ROBOTICS AND AUTOMATION CONTINUE TO EVOLVE


Trials of service and companion robotics will expand. Providers will need to assess dignity, safety and evidence before scaling their use.


POLICY AND FUNDING WILL SHAPE THE PACE OF CHANGE


New cyber regulations, algorithmic transparency expectations and CQC digital requirements will influence how the sector evolves. Continued Better Security, Better Care funding provides welcome stability for providers improving their digital maturity.


FINAL THOUGHTS


The sector has a real opportunity to make technology and data work better for people. Progress in 2026 will depend on the whole sector working together to deliver thoughtful implementation, confident staff and innovation that genuinely improves lives. The Digital Care Hub will continue supporting providers to strengthen cyber resilience, improve data practice and embed digital care that is safe, inclusive and person centred.


www.digitalcarehub.co.uk www.tomorrowscare.co.uk


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