Who uses social care?

Social care services are used by a wide variety of people. Read the information below to find out about who these people are.

People who use social care services

Older people are the main users of care homes but care homes (and other services) also cater for people with learning disabilities, physical disabilities or mental health problems.

Some services also used by people with drug and alcohol problems.

Some services are used by carers. For example if they need a break or someone to talk to.

What about children's services?

Since April 2007, social care services for children have been monitored by Ofsted.

How do social services come into it?

If you looking for any sort of care, and you want help with funding,  then your first port of call should be the social services department of your local council

Visit the Direct Gov site to find your local council

Give them a ring and they will arrange at time to have a chat with you to assess your needs, probably by visiting you in your own home.

Your council’s responsibility to you

Your local council is legally obliged to make sure that care is provided in your area, and its social services department will use a mix of privately run, voluntary and not-for-profit companies to provide that care. Visit How to arrange care for more information on this.

Created: 3/16/2006 Last updated: 11/27/2007