Episode 28
13 February 2026
This week on CTRL + Care, Michelle is joined by guest host Damon Habbin from Lincolnshire Care Association for a data deep dive into the digital tensions shaping health and social care. They explore growing concerns around data sovereignty, as European governments rethink their reliance on US tech platforms, and what that means for trust in public services.
The conversation looks at AI ambition versus data readiness, and why poor quality, siloed data could hardwire bias into systems if the foundations are not right. Damon shares insights from his work supporting providers with cyber security and the DSPT, including why getting the basics right still matters more than ever.
We have a tech-for-good Cyber Squirrel from Cambridge University, where visitors can chat to AI powered plants, a playful reminder that technology can spark curiosity and connection, not just efficiency.
View the video
Timestamp
00:00 Introduction to Digital Care Updates
02:14 Data Privacy and Geopolitical Concerns
05:56 The Role of Trust in Data Management
10:48 The Importance of Data Readiness for AI
18:23 Challenges of Implementing AI in Public Services
24:47 Leadership Changes in Digital Health
28:10 Damon’s Insights on Social Care and Technology
Links
Zoom/Teams European data considerations
What sort of data nation does the UK want to be?
Making government datasets ready for AI
Cyber Squirrel – AI plants chat
