This autumn, techUK will conduct elections for 23 seats on its Health and Social Care Council for the 2027–2029 term. The nomination process opens on September 14, 2026. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what to expect.
The Role of the Council
At the core of the UK’s digital health community, the techUK Health and Social Care Council plays a vital role. Members of the Council are responsible for shaping the strategic direction of techUK’s initiatives in health and social care. They represent the interests of the broader health and social care membership and engage directly with key stakeholders within the NHS, social care, and life sciences sectors.
Opportunities for Council Members
Joining the Council presents a unique chance to influence the future of digital health in the UK. Council members will have the opportunity to work closely with industry leaders, policymakers, and other stakeholders to drive impactful change in the health and social care landscape.
Meet the Team
Rachel
Rachel serves as a Programme Manager in the Health and Social Care team at techUK, having joined the organization in December 2024. With a background that includes work at a public affairs agency focusing on health and social care, she has collaborated with various organizations in the medical technology, pharmaceutical, and digital health sectors. Her academic credentials include a Master’s in Global Governance and Diplomacy from the University of Leeds and a first-class degree in Politics from Newcastle University.
Lewis
Lewis, another Programme Manager, has a diverse background that combines health policy, stakeholder engagement, and digital innovation. A former Commonwealth Games champion, he leverages his experience in high-performance sports to foster resilience and adaptability in his work. Before techUK, Lewis served a Member of Parliament, focusing on constituency engagement and research. He holds a degree in Biochemistry and Pharmacology and has contributed to various health tech and mobility startups.
Viola Pastorino
Viola is the Junior Programme Manager within the Health and Care Team, having joined techUK in April 2024. She specializes in policy, governance, and strategic communication. Viola’s academic achievements include a Bachelor’s degree in Governance, Economics, and Development from Leiden University, as well as a Master’s in Strategic Communications from King’s College London. Her interests lie at the intersection of technology and government, focusing on how these domains influence public discourse.
Navigating Digital Health
TechUK is committed to assisting its members in navigating the complexities of digital health in the UK. The organization aims to prepare the NHS and social care sectors for future challenges by validating innovative ideas and building effective strategies. This effort ensures that members are equipped to enter the market confidently.
Key Initiatives and White Papers
A significant publication from techUK is its white paper discussing the transformation of digital adult social care, which is essential to the NHS’s future. The report asserts that the technology needed to fulfill the NHS 10-Year Plan already exists; what is lacking is the coordination to implement it effectively. The white paper highlights essential capabilities like predictive monitoring and AI-enabled decision support that can be deployed with existing funding.
Focus on CareTech Transformation
The Reimagining CareTech focus week is another initiative aimed at uniting policymakers, NHS leaders, care providers, and technology suppliers. The goal is to address how to turn the aspirations outlined in the NHS 10-Year Plan into practical implementations. The week emphasizes the need for insights, evidence, and collaborative solutions across the sector.
Staying Engaged
TechUK offers its members numerous opportunities to engage actively within the Health and Social Care Programme. Members can participate in meetings, develop partnerships, and build strong networks that foster an environment conducive to innovation and collaboration.
The Value of Membership
Membership with techUK provides a platform for organizations to come together and harness the potential of digital technology. With over 1,100 members, including many SMEs, techUK facilitates collaboration among businesses, governments, and stakeholders to foster a better future for society and the economy. The current theme, “Strategy to Delivery,” emphasizes the importance of implementing ambitious government strategies across various sectors.
In conclusion, the upcoming elections for the techUK Health and Social Care Council present a significant opportunity for members to actively shape the future of digital health in the UK. With a dedicated team and strategic initiatives, techUK is poised to lead the charge in transforming health and social care through technology. Engaging in this process not only benefits individual organizations but also contributes to the broader goal of enhancing health outcomes for all.
- Key Takeaways:
- Elections for the Health and Social Care Council open on September 14, 2026.
- Council membership offers a chance to influence digital health strategies.
- TechUK provides resources to navigate the complexities of digital health.
- Key initiatives focus on the implementation of the NHS 10-Year Plan.
- Membership fosters collaboration and innovation across the health sector.
Read more → www.techuk.org