We have a responsibility for arranging and providing social care services which helps adults to live as independently as possible in their local communities.
We provide help and support for a wide range of people including:
- Older people
- People with a physical disability and/or sensory impairment
- People with a learning disability
- People with mental health needs
- People with drug and alcohol problems
- People with HIV
- Carers
Services we provide include:
Our duties are covered by Acts of Parliament including:
- The Disabled Persons Act 1986
- The NHS and Community Care Act 1990
- The Carers (Recognition and Services) Act 1995
- The Mental Health Act 1983
- The Disability Discrimination Act 1995
We are proud to be an Investor in People and we value our staff and the contribution that they make. Our staff include occupational therapists, social workers, support and administration staff, and lots more.
What should I do if I think I need help?
If you, or your friends or family think we may be able to help you then contact us as soon as possible. If you are not sure whether or not we can help you it is always best to ask.
When you get in touch with us, you will be asked questions about yourself and your situation. We will try to give you the advice or information you are looking for and may arrange for you to have an assessment of need.
What is an assessment of need?
This is a way of looking at your needs, and with your help, working out how these could be met. Providing that you meet certain criteria you may be eligible for funding towards your care and support.
To make sure that we spend our limited resources on those people that need the most help, the Government has produced a set of guidelines that we must follow. Please see our information about fair access to care services for further details.
If you prefer, you can ask someone like a friend or relative, your doctor, nurse or health visitor to contact us for you. We will arrange a convenient time to see you at one of our local offices, in your own home or another place convenient to you.
All our staff carry an ID card, so please ask to see this, especially before you let them into your home.
How can I find out more?
If you would like more information about our charging policy, social care services and how we may be able to help, please contact Social Care Direct.
To contact us outside normal working hours, in emergencies only, our Emergency Duty Team will answer your call.
We can provide you with details on sharing information about you and also answer any questions you may have regarding Direct Payments.
Download our 
How to access Social Care.pdf (2 pages, 3007kb) leaflet.
Other useful information
You can find out more about the advocacy service which offers advice and support. We have a dedicated carer development team and support groups can help when you are in need.
Complaints
Tell us your views about adult social care services.