For not-for-profit care providers, accessing the Learning and Development Support Scheme (LDSS) is an important way to invest in workforce training and development. One key requirement is maintaining an up-to-date Adult Social Care Workforce Data Set (ASC-WDS) account. DHSC link funding with the ASC-WDS service because the insights generated from the data are vital to DHSC and the sector. All claims for eligible LDSS courses and qualifications and Oliver’s Training must be submitted no later than 11:59pm on 20 March 2026.
Providers are strongly encouraged to engage with ASC‑WDS now, update their records, and submit all eligible LDSS funding claims and Oliver’s Training claims as soon as possible.
ASC-WDS is more than an online data collection service, it’s the most comprehensive source of workforce data for adult social care in England. The Department of Health and Social Care uses this data to allocate funding and shape policy.
Beyond accessing funding, ASC-WDS offers a range of benefits to the 20,000 care providers that use the service:
- Store and manage staff records and training and qualification records in one place
Use ASC-WDS as a digital platform to store and manage all your staff information alongside their training and qualification records for free.
- Benchmarking tool
You can compare your workforce data against similar care providers in your local area. See how you compare on key metrics like pay and staff turnover. - Evidence for CQC & local authority inspections
Using ASC-WDS gives your organisation the opportunity to align with the Care Quality Commission (CQC)’s quality assessments and share your workforce data with the CQC and local authority ready for inspection. - Access the benefits bundle
Get discounts and offers on a range of Skills for Care products and quality assured training provider products through the ASC-WDS benefits bundle. - Improved workforce planning
Use accurate data to forecast staffing needs, plan career paths, and support staff in one-to-ones or meetings. This can be done through downloadable training summaries for all your staff. - Help the sector
Your data helps shape national policy and funding decisions, ensuring the sector evolves to meet future challenges.
ASC-WDS is a powerful service for your organisation. It opens doors to essential funding, reinforces compliance, and provides actionable insights that help you plan effectively and deliver outstanding care.
To find out more about ASC-WDS or update your account visit the Skills for Care website.
