The Northern Ireland Health Collective’s Health Special Interest Group (Health SIG) recently hosted a key session focusing on developments in social care and workforce recognition across Northern Ireland.
Chair of the Health Special Interest Group, Bernie Kelly, welcomed delegates and provided an update on the progress of the NI Health Collective. The meeting featured contributions from three influential sector leaders.
Jane McMillan, Professional Social Worker Officer in the Department of Health’s Office of Social Services, shared her insights into the development and recognition of the social care workforce. Drawing on over 30 years of experience—including frontline roles across HSC Trusts, work in Australia, and strategic planning within the former Health and Social Care Board—Jane highlighted the importance of collaborative reform. She spoke about her involvement in the Social Care Collaborative Forum, the Children’s Social Care Strategic Reform Programme Board, and the Fair Work Forum.
Catherine Maguire, Co-Director of Regulation and Standards at the Northern Ireland Social Care Council, offered a regulatory and educational perspective. A registered social worker with a background in the justice sector and in social work education, Catherine outlined the Council’s work in setting and supporting professional standards. She highlighted key initiatives such as the Professional in Practice CPD framework, the Social Work Leadership Framework, and the Care in Practice Framework—all designed to foster ongoing development and excellence within the workforce.
Elaine Armstrong, Chief Executive of The Cedar Foundation, concluded the session with a focus on disability inclusion and community-based support. Elaine shared how Cedar, a long-standing regional organisation, supports over 2,000 individuals annually with a wide range of services. With a staff team of around 600, the Foundation continues to deliver housing, employment, and inclusion programmes tailored to each person’s needs—helping children and adults to live, work, learn, and connect in their communities.
The session offered valuable reflections and direction for health and social care professionals, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities in supporting those who deliver vital care across Northern Ireland.
