Social Work/Social Services

If you have a disability which requires someone else (or some special equipment) to help you to live as normal a life as possible you may be eligible to receive services from your local Social Work department. These services include personal care/home help and the provision of a wide range of equipment to help with everyday tasks.

Alternatively you may be able to receive a direct payment so you can purchase the help you require. In order to receive social work services or a direct payment you will first need a 'community care assessment' from your Social Work department. Contact details of your Social Work department can be found in the telephone directory (first look up the name of your local authority, then look for the social work department). In case of difficulty contact the 'Signposting' service.

If you need a family member (carer) to look after you, this person also may be eligible for help from the Social Work department - but again a community care assessment will be needed.