What's changed in May 2026: monthly landscape update

SEND White Paper consultation closed, NICE NG252 now in effect, CQC inspection rates increasing, and Oliver McGowan training implications for manual handling.

SEND White Paper: The Schools White Paper 'Every Child Achieving and Thriving' was published February 2026. Public consultation closed 18 May 2026. We've published a full insight post on what this means for physiotherapy provision (see above).

NICE NG252: The guideline on rehabilitation for chronic neurological disorders (October 2025) is now in effect. Our full insight post covers what this means for families (see above).

CQC inspection framework: The single assessment framework is under revision, with a new sector-specific framework for adult social care expected by the end of 2026. Inspection rates have increased significantly this year. Care homes should ensure their manual handling documentation, including individual competency records and individual handling plans, is up to date.

Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training: The Code of Practice was finalised in September 2025. This training covers awareness of learning disability and autism but does not include practical clinical application for manual handling. Thrive's training covers exactly this gap: how to adapt handling technique for residents with learning disabilities, autism, and complex sensory processing needs.

HCPC renewal: The April 2026 renewal window has closed. All Thrive practitioners are fully registered.