Youth care & Social support
New responsibilities require clear decisions
Local authorities have statutory responsibilities in youth care and social support. This brings both obligations and practical challenges. You need to know what is legally permissible and where the boundaries lie.
Where local authorities and providers intersect
In practice, the roles and powers of local authorities lead to a wide range of issues and disputes with youth care and social support providers. For example, in relation to funding, accountability of claims and the quality of care or services delivered. Questions also arise around assessments, the implementation of agreements and the allocation of personal budgets.
Local authorities are required to carry out thorough investigations following notifications and applications. But what standards apply? And how far does this duty of investigation extend? These are questions that require careful assessment and clear decisions.
Practical solutions in a complex landscape
Our specialist team advises and litigates for both local authorities and service providers. This means we understand the dynamics from both sides and are fully aware of the interests and risks involved.
We assist with matters such as care assessments, personal budgets and contractual arrangements. Our focus is always on solutions that are legally sound and workable in practice. In this way, we ensure that rules support – rather than hinder – effective care and social support.
Our expertise
- Complex objection and appeal procedures relating to the allocation of youth care and tailored support
- Drafting and reviewing agreements between local authorities and care providers
- Advice on policy decisions and operational issues within the social domain
Who do we work for?
We work for local authorities, youth care providers and social support providers.
Related
Recent cases Youth care & Social support
- Assisting a local authority in a dispute with a domestic help provider regarding the early termination of a multi-year agreement
- Conducting objection and appeal proceedings for various local authorities regarding the allocation of tailored support