Social Services

A range of social services is provided on behalf of Government by the Social Services Division of the Department of Health and Social Security.

Services available include community support for people living in their own homes through practical assistance from domiciliary care workers, advice, and where appropriate, financial help with the purchase and installation of aids and adaptations for elderly and disabled people. Counselling and support for families at times of stress and support for those families who have a disabled or elderly member is also available.

The Division is responsible for the supervision and support of children and families who, for various reasons, experience personal difficulties, including situations where children may be at risk.

Complementing the community care approach, the Social Services Division also operates residential facilities for the elderly and handicapped as well as a training/occupational resource for adults with learning difficulties. Registration, inspection and supervision of privately owned residential homes is also the responsibility of the Division.

A number of voluntary organisations work in partnership with, and are financially supported by the Division in recognition of the important contribution made by the voluntary sector to the overall pattern of community and residential care.