Website of the Department of Health
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About the directorate
The Department of Health sets the strategic direction of adult social care, provides legal and policy framework and funding to local councils to enable them to operate effective services. The Department does not have direct responsibility for delivering social care services.
How social care is delivered
Local councils with social services responsibilities commission public, private and voluntary sector providers to deliver services that meet local needs.
Directorate structure
In 2006, the Department created the Social Care, Local Government and Care Partnerships Directorate with its own Director on the Departmental Management Board.
Directorate business plan
Our vision is that people should receive health and social care support, which promotes their recovery, independence, inclusion, health and wellbeing.
Research and development
Social care research is mainly funded by the Policy Research Programme (PRP), who commission evidence to underpin all aspects of the Departments’ policy making activity.
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