The Social Services Department has a responsibility for arranging and providing social care services which enable people to live as independently as possible in their local communities.
We provide help and support for a wide range of people including:
- older people
- children, young people and families
- people with a learning disability
- people with mental health needs
- people with drug and alcohol problems
- people with HIV
- people with a physical disability and/or sensory impairment, and
- those who care for any of these people
Our duties are covered by Acts of Parliament including:
- The Children Act 1989
- The Disabled Persons Act 1986
- The NHS and Community Care Act 1990
- The Carers (Recognition and Services) Act 1995
- The Mental Health Act 1983
- The Disability Discrimination Act 1995
We currently employ over 3,500 full and part time staff and manage a budget of over �81million.
We are to proud to be an Investor in People which we were awarded in 1998 and we value our staff and the contribution that they make. Our staff include: Occupational Therapists, Social Workers, Care Managers, Support and Administration Staff, and lots more.
County Durham Care are part of the Social Services Department and provide and range of services for elderly people and adults.
How can we help you?
Some people like to think of us as a shoulder to lean on when times are difficult. Others may find they need our long term help and support, for example with an elderly relative or a family member who is disabled. But whether we are giving a busy parent information about childminders or arranging some home care for a frail elderly person, we are here to help.
When should you apply to us for help?
If you, or your friends or family think we may be able to help you then contact us as soon as possible. If you are not sure whether or not we can help you it is always best to ask. Our reception staff will try to give you the advice and information you need. If we cannot help you we will try and direct you to someone else who can. To make sure that we spend our limited resources on those people that need the most help, the Government have produced a set of guidelines that we must follow. Find out about fair access to care services.
If you prefer, you can ask someone like a friend or relative, your doctor, nurse or health visitor to contact us for you. We will arrange a convenient time to see you at one of our local offices, in your own home or another place convenient to you.
All our staff carry an ID card, so please ask to see this, especially before you let them into your home.
If you feel you need a service from us then our staff will arrange for you to have an assessment of need.
What is an assessment?
An assessment is a way of helping you to look at your needs to enable you to live as independently as possible and involves you in working out what services will be best for you. If your needs are straightforward, then the assessment will be dealt with quickly. However, if your needs are more complex, then the assessment team will take as much information as possible in order to decide who is the best person to help you. You will need to answer questions about yourself, as well as about anyone who looks after you.
Find out more about an assessment.
How can I find out more?
If you would like more information about the Social Services department and how we may be able to help, you please contact your local Social Services office.
How to Contact Us
To contact us outside normal working hours, in emergencies only, please call the Emergency Duty Team on 01325 375724
Director of Social Services: Peter Kemp
Social Services Department
County Hall
Durham
DH1 5UG
Tel: 0191 383 3304
Fax: 0191 383 4182
Email Social Services
Contact Social Care Direct using one telephone number or by other various methods, you can even text us.
Useful Leaflets and Publications
How do you get access to Personal Records?
Sharing Information About You
Directory of Social Care Agencies
What are Direct Payments?
Leaflets about charging for day care and meals on wheels,
Charging for home care and other home care support services and,
Charging for Residential and Nursing Care.
Find out about our charging policy for non residential services.
Find out about fair access to care services.
Look at our policies, performance standards and achievements.
News and Projects
Look at the latest news and projects that our department has been involved in.
Other Useful Information
How do we work with our partners?
Find out about paying for Social Services facilities and support.
Find out about the advocacy service offering advice and support.
Support Groups can help when you are in need.
Complaints
Tell Us Your Views
Making a Complaint About one of our Teams
Other Social Services Teams
Community Support Unit
Welfare Rights Team
