Question 45
What is a social worker's role in arranging care?
A social worker from the council's adult social care team assesses what support someone needs and helps coordinate care arrangements. They are the main point of contact for council-funded care. A social worker does not make decisions unilaterally — they assess needs, identify what the council will fund and work with the family to agree a care plan. If you disagree with their assessment or recommendations, you have the right to request a review. They cannot decide where someone lives without going through the proper legal process. Keeping a written record of each conversation with a social worker avoids disputes about what was agreed.
Keep a brief written note after every conversation with a social worker — date, what was discussed and what the next steps are. It protects you if anything is later disputed.
What changes the answer
- Whether a formal assessment has been requested
- The complexity of the person's care needs
- Whether there is disagreement about the care plan or next steps