The Care Act
The Care Act 2014 came into force in April 2015 and created a number of new responsibilities for local authorities in relation to adult social care and the support provided for unpaid carers.
The Act has replaced numerous previous laws governing adult social care with a single, modern Act that makes it clear what kind of care and support people should get.
Support for young and parent carers is guided by the Children and Families Act and offered through local Children's Social Care services. If you're a parent carer you can find out more on the Derbyshire County Council website. If you're a young carer you can find out more in our Young Carers section.
The Care Act for carers
The Care Act 2014 recognises the importance of supporting carers, raises awareness of carers rights and puts them on an equal footing to the person they care for.
Previously, carers didn't have a legal right to receive support, although local authorities could provide support at their discretion. You can find out more on the Care Act for carers page.
The Care Act for the person you support
As a carer it can be difficult to understand the Care Act and how it relates to your loved one's care. We've got and overview of the Act and links to other websites. We hope to develop this section more over the coming months as we know carers want to be supported to advocate for thier loved one and ensure they are being treated fairly.
Wellbeing principle
The Care Act introduced a general duty on local authorities (Derbyshire County Council) to promote a person’s ‘wellbeing’. This means that they should always have a person’s wellbeing in mind and when making decisions about them or planning services. The principle realtes to carers and the cared-for person equally.
Wellbeing can relate to:
- personal dignity (including treatment of the individual with respect)
- physical and mental health and emotional wellbeing
- protection from abuse and neglect
- control by the individual over day-to-day life (including over care and support)
- participation in work, education, training or recreation
- social and economic wellbeing
- domestic, family and personal relationships
- suitability of living accommodation
- the individual's contribution to society
Local authorities have to consider the impact of your role as a carer on your wellbeing. Similarly, they have to consider the impact of an adult's care needs on their wellbeing. If the impact is significant then the eligibility criteria for support are likely to be met. There is a eligibility criteria for carers and a separate eligibility criteria for the cared for person (who could be elderly, disabled, have mental ill health etc).
