What is Adult Social Care?
Sefton Council and other local authorities provide Adult Social Care support to those who are over 18 in the community .
In 2014 the Parliament introduced an new national framework for Adult Social Care in England called the Care Act. Its primary goal was to ensure that care and support were more consistent, fairer and more focused on individual well-being.
This support is person centered and therefore looks different for everyone based on what they need, what support they already have , their goals and what is available locally. Here are just some of the great quality services Adult Social Care provide for their residents:
- Home Care: Assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, cooking, and cleaning.
- Day Centers: Facilities where individuals can participate in social activities, receive meals, and engage in therapeutic activities.
- Residential Care: Long-term care in a residential setting for those who need continuous support.
- Respite Care: Temporary care to give regular caregivers a break.
- Disability Equipment and Adaptations: Providing equipment like wheelchairs, stairlifts, and home modifications to improve accessibility.
- Support for Carers: Services to support those who care for family members or friends, including counseling and respite care.
- Mental Health Services: Support for individuals with mental health conditions, including counseling and therapy.
- Learning Disability Services: Specialized support for individuals with learning disabilities to help them live independently.
- Substance Misuse Services: Support for individuals dealing with drug or alcohol addiction.
- Advocacy Services: Helping individuals understand their rights and access the services they need.
- Hospital Discharge support and reablement : Helping those who are discharged from hospital to support them to recover at home and regain their independence
All Local Authorities are regulated by The Care Quality Commission who inspect services to make sure that local residents are getting good quality regulated services.
For information about Sefton's most recent 2025 inspection see our dedicated Care Quality Commission webpages.
What is The Care Act?
In 2014 The Care Act was introduced and now is a key piece of legislation in England that reformed Adult Social Care practice.
Here are the main points to outline how :
Well-being Focus: The Act emphasises the well-being of individuals needing care, ensuring their dignity and quality of life.
Local Authority Duties: Local authorities must assess the care needs of individuals and provide a range of high-quality care options
Personal Control: Individuals have more control over their care plans, including personal budgets, allowing them to make choices that suit their preferences
Prevention and Safeguarding: The Act aims to prevent the escalation of care needs and safeguard individuals from abuse and neglect
Information and Advice: Local authorities must provide comprehensive information and advice about care services available in their area
Overall, the Care Act 2014 aims to create a more responsive and compassionate adult social care system in England
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) for a local authority adult social care website, along with their answers:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is Adult Social Care?
Adult Social Care refers to a range of services and support designed to help adults with physical or mental disabilities, older adults, and those with long-term health conditions to live as independently as possible.
- How do I apply for Adult Social Care services?
You can apply for Adult Social Care services by contacting your local authority. They will conduct an assessment to determine your needs and the type of support you require.
Sefton Council how to get an assessment
- What happens during a care needs assessment?
During a care needs assessment, a social worker or care assessor will discuss your daily living activities, health, and well-being to understand your needs and how best to support you.
- Will I have to pay for Adult Social Care services?
The cost of Adult Social Care services depends on your financial situation. Your local authority will conduct a financial assessment to determine if you need to contribute towards the cost of your care.
For more Information see Sefton Council : Paying for Care advice, support and guidance pages
- What types of support are available?
Support can include home care, day services, residential care, respite care, and equipment to help with daily living. The specific services offered will depend on your assessed needs.
- Can I choose my care provider?
Yes, you have the right to choose your care provider. Your local authority can provide information and advice to help you make an informed decision.
- How can I make a complaint about Adult Social Care services?
If you are unhappy with the services provided, you can make a complaint to your local authority. They will have a formal complaints procedure in place to address your concerns.
For more information see Sefton Council : Compliments, Comments and Complaints webpages
- What is a personal budget?
A personal budget is an amount of money allocated to you by your local authority to spend on your care and support needs. It gives you more control over how your care is provided.
- How often will my care plan be reviewed?
Your care plan will be reviewed regularly to ensure it continues to meet your needs. You can request a review if your circumstances change.
- What should I do if I suspect someone is being abused or neglected?
If you suspect someone is being abused or neglected, you should report it to your local authority's safeguarding team immediately. They will investigate and take appropriate action to protect the individual.
Sefton Council Adult Safeguarding advice , guidance and referral pages
Your rights
When being treated by Adult Social Care in the UK, individuals have several important legal rights, primarily outlined in The Care Act 2014. Here are some key rights:
Right to Assessment: Individuals have the right to a needs assessment if they appear to need care and support, regardless of their financial situation
Right to Care and Support Plan: After an assessment, individuals have the right to a care and support plan that outlines how their needs will be met
Right to Personal Budget: People have the right to a personal budget, which is an allocation of funds to meet their assessed needs
Right to Choice and Control: Individuals have the right to be involved in decisions about their care and to have control over how their needs are met
Right to Advocacy: If individuals have substantial difficulty in being involved in the assessment, planning, and review process, they have the right to an independent advocate
Right to Safeguarding: People have the right to be protected from abuse and neglect. Local authorities have a duty to make enquiries if they suspect an adult is at risk.
Right to Information and Advice: Individuals have the right to receive comprehensive information and advice about care and support services available to the
Right to Continuity of Care: If an individual moves to a different area, they have the right to continuity of care, ensuring their needs continue to be met during the transition
Right to Complain: People have the right to complain about the care they receive and to have their complaints addressed promptly and fairly
These rights are designed to ensure that individuals receive appropriate, respectful, and effective care and support, promoting their well-being and independence.