As part of our continued commitment to championing social care and raising professional standards, we are proud to introduce a new chapter: the Care Professional Organisation (CPO).
We are more than a voice for the sector, we are a true advocate, working collectively to support both care workers and those they care for. The CPO exists to elevate the recognition of professional carers through a trusted register, providing the credibility, status, and representation this essential workforce deserves.
Our work is rooted in the humanity of care. Every day, care professionals demonstrate skill, judgement, and compassion, something we now all too well is often undervalued. We exist to strengthen professional identity and highlighting the impact and versatility of the care community.
Who We Are
The CPO supports professional carers across the health and social care sector. It was founded by Paul Featherstone, whose personal experience in care inspired the creation of a professional body dedicated to elevating and supporting the workforce.
“As a care worker myself, I have witnessed the breadth of skill and dedication our profession demands. Despite this, the vital contributions of care workers are often underappreciated and not fully recognised for their true value.” (Paul Featherstone)
Why the Rebrand?
Our rebrand reflects both clarity of purpose and ambition for the future. Transitioning from the National Association of Care and Support Workers (NACAS) to the Care Professional Organisation (CPO) allows us to better represent our evolving role within the sector.
The new identity symbolises a unified community of care professionals and a strengthened mission: to champion recognition through a trusted professional register, elevate professional status, and amplify the collective voice of carers across the UK.
At its core, the rebrand reinforces our commitment to:
• Recognise care as a true profession
• Provide a stronger, unified voice for care professionals
• Support professional standards through a trusted register
Central to this is the development of the Care Professional Register (CPR), designed for professional carers who are not currently subject to statutory regulation. This includes those delivering personal care, practical support, and advocacy in everyday settings. The register will help build collective identity, improve professional standing, and support sector-wide recognition.
We are also establishing steering groups made up of policymakers, industry representatives, and sector leaders. These groups will guide best practice and help drive continuous improvements in care quality.
What Has Changed?
While our core mission remains the same, advocating for recognition, higher standards, and greater trust, our reach and ambition have grown.
We are expanding our collaboration with organisations, policymakers, and sector voices to strengthen representation at a national level. Our vision is clear: a future where every care professional is recognised, respected, and valued.
This next phase will bring developments in:
• Membership and services
• Organisational structure
• Strategic focus
The CPO is committed to elevating your voice, your profession, and the respect you deserve.
Be Part of the Movement
As part of this new chapter, we invite you to share your story. Your experience is vital in shaping a stronger, more unified profession.
Together, we are working closely with the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) to represent care professionals on a national stage and drive meaningful change across the sector.
Join us in building the future of professional care, to learn more about getting involved,
Visit our website: https://careprofessionalorganisation.co.uk or contact us directly via email or phone:
Email:
Phone: 01639 354314