hft – Guide to the Care Act

What is it?

This resource is a clearly written guide to the Care Act. It’s full title is: How to get the right support from your local authority and is one of several useful guides produced by hft. hft is a long established charity supporting people with learning disabilities. They provide resources, such as this guide, and a range of services.

You can find other resources here.

Why might it be of interest?

The Care Act is a long document and not easily read. But it is important to us and our young people so understanding what it provides for is essential. There are a lot of guides around but this is one I use myself and regularly recommend to clients as it is targeted at families with a learning disabled or autistic relative.

It is easy to dip into – no need to read the whole guide in one go. It offers advice on how to challenge decisions; what is ‘wellbeing’ – referred to throughout the Care Act; support and advice, including at an early stage, advocacy and what advice your LA should provide; information about the Mental Capacity Act; how to prepare for a social care assessment; the support plan, direct payments and financial assessments; reviews; support for carers; and finally about housing.

You can request a hard copy be sent to you. I would recommend having a hard copy of this guide.