Arlene Bunton, Programme Lead – Quality, Policy, and Local Authority Engagement

Arlene Bunton brings a unique blend of operational expertise, academic insight, and strategic leadership to her role at Fulcrum Care. As Programme Lead for Quality, Policy, and Local Authority Engagement, Arlene is responsible for driving innovation, inclusive practice, and robust governance across the organisation’s service lines.

With over a decade of experience in the health and social care sector, Arlene has built a distinguished career focused on dementia care, policy development, service integration, and care quality improvement. She has held key leadership roles within local authorities, national charities, and sector bodies — including Scottish Care and Alzheimer Scotland — where she was instrumental in influencing national dementia strategy and shaping inclusive care models.

A passionate advocate for co-production and the use of assistive technology, Arlene also serves as a Social Care Specialist Lead with innovation partner Konpanion and sits on the Executive Committee of the Scottish Dementia Research Consortium. Her academic journey is equally impressive: Arlene is currently completing a Doctorate in Applied Social Research (Dementia and Ageing), building on her MSc and Postgraduate Diploma in Dementia Studies. Her research explores intersectionality in access to formal care, positioning her at the forefront of inclusive and evidence-based practice in the sector.

Arlene is an award-winning figure in the field, recognised for her work on LGBTQ+ ageing and inclusive dementia care, and is a published author and speaker at national and international conferences.

At Fulcrum Care, Arlene’s focus is on connecting policy to practice, strengthening quality frameworks, and empowering providers to deliver safe, effective, and compassionate care. Her leadership is grounded in empathy, strategic foresight, and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within adult social care.