HIGHLIGHT

Relocation, portability and social care practice

Moving locality can be a difficult and stressful time for anyone. For people with local authority funded social care support, the challenges may be magnified. This study led by Dave Marsland at the University of Hull explored the experiences of disabled people who have moved and relocated their social care support to a new local authority. The study also examined what social care practitioners do in helping people to relocate.

The study interviewed 12 participants and found a number of challenges such as delays and gaps in the provision of support and a lack of continuity as a result of a move. For some, these gaps occurred even when they felt they had given ‘sufficient’ notice of their plans to move. It found differences in the kinds of support services between local authorities - as well as interpretation of legislation and guidance - meant people might receive better or worse support than previously or may even become ineligible for support. This could lead to additional anxiety and experiencing a loss of control over their support.
 
Several participants described support systems and services as inflexible and somewhat unresponsive when they were in the process of moving. Some participants indicated that they had not felt sufficiently involved in decisions and tasks during the relocation process.
 
The study found that many social care practitioners in local authorities have little or no experience of supporting a disabled person to move to another area, but appear to have good insights into the complex and challenging situation of moving. Practitioners noted the importance of getting information and referrals about people moving as soon as possible so that they have as much time as possible to make plans and arrangements.

Read the full summary findings
View further information on the project