The Social Worker's Guide to the Care Act 2014

The Care Act 2014 is a pivotal piece of legislation for adults with social care needs. It is particularly important for social workers, as it sets out the legislative context for the core social work processes that apply to all adults.

The Social Worker’s Guide to the Care Act 2014 is a thoughtfully crafted resource that places social workers at the centre of the legal landscape. This guide takes a distinctive approach by honing in on what truly matters to social workers: assessing needs and formulating care and support plans that align with eligible requirements. Through a unique blend of key concepts, case examples, and critical evaluation, the book serves to enhance legal literacy in a way that empowers social workers. The ultimate goal of this guide is to equip social workers with a profound understanding of the legal framework within which they operate, enabling them to make informed professional judgements and apply their expertise effectively.

This eagerly awaited second edition reflects extensive revisions based on valuable insights derived from judicial reviews, Ombudsman decisions, and in-depth research. Drawing from the author's extensive experience in providing training on the Care Act, the revised edition introduces two new sections that delve into the realms of professional judgement and defensible decisions—essential areas of focus for social workers. Additionally, it incorporates the amendments made to the Care Act 2014 by the Health and Care Act 2022.

This substantially revised second edition of "The Social Worker's Guide to the Care Act 2014" will be your invaluable companion in navigating the complexities of social work and will be a source of knowledge, empowerment, and guidance. 

 “Every social worker in England who works with adults needs a good knowledge of the Care Act. Whether newly qualified, several years into practice or an old hand this is the book that provides that knowledge. It is one of the key texts for practitioners I use again and again”. 

Luke Geoghegan, Head of Policy and Research, BASW

Preface

Introduction

1. First contact 
2. Assessment of needs
3. Eligibility determination
4. The duty and power to meet needs
5. Charging and financial assessment
6. Care and support planning
7. Review
8. Safeguarding enquiries
9. Safeguarding – types of abuse, SABs
10. Substantially difficulty with involvement
11. Disputes
12. Working with the NHS and housing
13. Other modification and additions
14. Professional judgement

Pete Feldon is a freelance Care Act consultant and trainer. He has a background of working in many sectors of social care as a social worker, trainer, manager and policy developer. He was a member of the team that developed learning materials for the Care Act for Skills for Care. He is currently providing Care Act training for local authorities and for universities. As a member of the BASW Adults Group he has been involved in writing guidance on the impact of constrained resources on the application of the Care Act, and also advising other organisations on social work and the Care Act. He has written articles published in PSW (Professional Social Work), Community Care and also The A-Z of the Care Act 2014 for Community Care Inform.