COSTS
per bed, per day, with noticeable improvements in comfort, sleep, and wound prevention. The return on investment can be realised in under 13 weeks, making this a clear example of technology that improves both care and cost efficiency.
A simple switch: decaffeination to reduce falls
Falls are among the most common causes of injury and emergency admissions in older people. Research shows that overstimulation, poor sleep, and behavioural symptoms, often exacerbated by caffeine, can increase fall risk. Introducing a default switch to decaffeinated drinks has proven to reduce falls, improve sleep, and even remove the need for 1:1 supervision in some cases. This low-cost, evidence-led change delivers both clinical and financial benefits, while improving wellbeing for residents and staff alike. Care England’s research on this has also been quoted in the NHS 10-year plan, marking how valuable this data is.
Costing tools and fee negotiation To secure sustainable fees, providers need accurate, transparent costing data. Benchmarking tools can equip providers to evidence their delivery costs, reducing the likelihood of fee disputes and enabling constructive engagement with commissioners.
Discounts for such tools can be achieved by joining care associations that offer members discounted access to these tools, which can help unlock fairer fee uplifts and ensure services are priced appropriately for long-term sustainability.
Insurance reviews Rising insurance premiums have added further strain to provider budgets. However, many costs can be reduced by improving risk profiles, boosting compliance ratings, and reviewing policy terms. Providers rated as ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ often benefit from lower premiums. By working with sector-aligned brokers and ensuring full visibility of risk factors, providers can save up to 10 per cent on premiums, reinvesting those savings into areas that directly improve care.
A time for practical optimism The pressures facing adult social care are undeniable, but they are not insurmountable. Providers cannot wait for national reform. They must act now, with clarity and confidence. The steps outlined here, while not exhaustive,
offer real opportunities to improve financial resilience while maintaining, if not enhancing, care quality and could mean the difference between survival and closure for many services. Care England remains at the side of providers: identifying solutions, facilitating access to expertise, and championing the sector’s value at every level. Together, through innovation, partnership, and determination, we can weather this storm and build a future where adult social care not only endures but thrives.
Visit:
https://www.careengland.org.uk or scan the QR code for more information.
12 THE CARE HOME INDUSTRY HANDBOOK 2026
itim2101 -
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