Help for Adults
Find out about the different terms used for carers who care for people of different ages. Get advice on your entitlement to assessments and additional support.
Advocacy (Social Care)
Advocacy is about enabling people to either 'speak up' for themselves and/or having someone else to speak on their behalf. Adult service users and their carers can benefit from the free service of an independent advocacy worker.
Alcohol, Drugs and Substance Abuse
Find out about the signs of addiction and where you can get help for those trying to kick a drug or alcohol habit. Get information on partnerships and other local and national agencies, aiming to reduce the harm caused by drugs, alcohol and substance misuse.
Educational Awards and Benefits
The Student Support team assesses whether students, who live in County Durham, are eligible for financial support. Information is available for pupils of compulsory school age and for further education students, covering funds for sixth form, student awards and student loans.
Free School Meals
Children are entitled to free school meals if their families receive certain benefits. Find out how to apply and which forms you need to fill in.
Home Assessment
A home assessment is a way of helping to look at your needs. Find out how we involves you and any people who may be involved in caring for you to work out how your needs can be met.
Home Care Service
Illness, disability or frailty are often circumstances which can make it difficult for a person to cope with daily life. Find out how the Council's home care service aims to support people in their own homes.
Leisure and Social Activities
Get information on a variety of leisure activities available in County Durham or find out how to get involved in social activities in the area.
Out of Hours Social Care Support
Get contact details for 'Social Care Direct' the team of officers who are your first point of contact if you need help from DCC's Social Care and Health service. We have information on 'office hours' and our 'emergency' contacts.
Protection of Vulnerable Adults
Information explaining how we work with other agencies to protect vulnerable adults from abuse, as well as working to prevent abuse.
Residential Accommodation
Information on residential and nursing homes providing a supportive and caring home throughout Durham County, including long term nursing care and details of how your needs are assessed.
Respite Care
Respite care is another name for short-term care. It can give you a break for a short period of time, either through residential care or support in the home.
Sheltered and Supported Housing
We have information on the supported living scheme and supported housing benefits. Find out how the Council aims to meet the needs of individuals by supporting them in their own homes.
Support for People with HIV
Find out how we are working in close co-operation with health agencies and voluntary organisations, to meet all the needs that may arise, following a diagnosis of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).
