Adult social care is a broad term that refers to support provided by a wide range of agencies and individuals to help those in need to maintain their independence and well-being.
People may need social care support due to various reasons including mental health problems, learning or physical disabilities.
People with informal caring responsibilities can also benefit from social care support.
Social care support includes:
- Personal care
- Nursing homes
- Supported accomodation e.g. extra care housing
- Support to manage daily living tasks such as house work, errands, finances e.t.c
- Occupational therapy, focused on maintaining and improving independence
- Support to engage in social / community activities.
Social care is delivered by voluntary and private sector organisations, friends and family and Local Authorities.
Social care is not free for everyone and how much you pay towards the cost of your care will depend on your financial situation.
Publically funded social care is the responsibility of Local Authorities, this responsibility includes:
- Providing information and advice
- Assessing care needs
- Arrange short-term support or re-enablement
- Safeguard vulnerable individuals
- Commission a large range of care services (Day services, home care, supported accomodation etc).