As 2024 draws to a close, we celebrate an incredible first year for the Global Observatory of Long-Term Care (GOLTC). Since our launch, we’ve achieved a few key milestones and laid the foundation for a thriving community dedicated to advancing long-term care globally. This year has truly been a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation, and we are excited to use this momentum to continue to build a truly global network.

Here are some of our highlights:

• Webinars: We hosted 26 webinars, including a full-day online event on October 29 to mark the International Day of Care and Support, bringing together leading experts and advocates from around the world.
• Blog Posts: Six blog posts were published, offering fresh perspectives and knowledge on critical long-term care topics.
• Guides and Profiles: Four GOLTC Method Guides and 13 Long-Term Care Country System Profiles were released, providing practical tools and comprehensive insights for stakeholders.
• Publications: Over 337 publications were uploaded to GOLTC, creating an library of resources for the global community.
• Interest Groups: 21 varied interest groups were created, fostering dynamic discussions and collaborations across specialised areas of long-term care.
• Membership Growth: In just one year, we’ve welcomed over 471 new members from 121 countries.
• International Day of Care and Support: On 29 October, we hosted an all-day event for the UN International Day of Care and Support, which featured eight different sessions of various aspects of long-term care, from financing to care homes of the future.

Mapping the GOLTC network

GOLTC’s global reach has been truly inspiring, our members have expertise spanning 121 countries. The United Kingdom (115 members), Spain (61 members), Australia (38 members), the United States of America (31 members), and Singapore (27 members) are among the countries with the most members. This widespread representation underscores the universal importance of long-term care and the shared commitment to improving care systems globally. In addition, the diversity in our members reflects the worldwide commitment to improving long-term care and the growing recognition of GOLTC as a hub for knowledge and collaboration.

 

This has been an extraordinary first year for GOLTC, and we are grateful to every member, partner, and contributor who has helped us achieve this success. We are especially grateful to the Government of Bizkaia for hosting the launch of GOLTC during the International Long-Term Care Policy Network conference in Bilbao in September 2024, and to the Tsao Foundation for the Asia launch of GOLTC in Singapore in November 2024.

We are grateful to every member, partner, and contributor who has helped us achieve this success. Together, we are building a global community that is shaping the future of long-term care.

Looking Ahead: Changing the Narrative on Care in 2025

In 2025, GOLTC will continue its mission to identify shared challenges in relation to long-term care and showcase how different countries and localities are addressing them, sharing research evidence and supporting collaborations.. A key focus will be on changing the narrative on care. We are excited to launch a dedicated series of webinars that will highlight good practices, showcase innovative care models, and drive meaningful conversations about the value and importance of care. By shifting perspectives and fostering a deeper appreciation for the role of care in society, we aim to spark positive change and promote a more inclusive vision for long-term care.

To join the GOLTC network, register now as an expert.

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