Caroline Deane is the Workforce Policy and Practice Lead at Scottish Care, where she plays a central role in shaping policy, amplifying workforce voice, and supporting the development of Scotland’s independent social care sector.  In this national strategic position, Caroline works closely with care providers, frontline staff, regulators and government to ensure that the realities of practice inform decision‑making and that the workforce is recognised as vital to delivering high‑quality, person‑centred care. 

With a career spanning the breadth of social care, Caroline brings extensive operational and leadership experience to her role, and this practical insight underpins her commitment to advocating for improved conditions, professional recognition and sustainable career pathways for the workforce.

At Scottish Care, Caroline leads engagement initiatives that connect the voices of over 400 provider organisations with national policy development, ensuring that those delivering care are heard in shaping the future of the sector.  She is also actively involved in workforce development programmes, promoting learning, wellbeing and innovation across the sector, and supporting collaboration with key partners such as regulators and national bodies. 

Caroline is a passionate advocate for the people who deliver care every day, championing their professionalism, skill and dedication.  Her work focuses on driving meaningful change that enables a confident, valued and resilient workforce, one that is equipped to meet current challenges and future demands while continuing to deliver compassionate, person‑led support across Scotland.