What is a Local Authority and Why Does It Matter for Care?
In the United Kingdom, your local authority (also referred to as your local council) is the organisation responsible for assessing your care needs and, where you are eligible, funding or arranging social care services on your behalf. Whether you or a loved one needs residential care, nursing home support, or care at home, your local council is almost always the first point of contact.
There are over 150 local authorities in England alone, each operating independently within a national framework set by the Care Act 2014. Understanding which council covers your area, and how to get in touch with the right team, is often the most important first step in navigating the care system.
How to Use This Directory
Use the search box above to find your local authority by typing the name of your town, city, or council. You can also filter by region using the tabs to narrow down results. Each council listing links through to a dedicated page showing contact details for the adult social care team, an overview of how care funding works in that area, and links to care homes and agencies nearby.
If you are unsure which council covers your postcode, use the Find my council link at the bottom of this page to look up your local authority on GOV.UK using your postcode.
What Happens After You Contact Your Local Authority?
Once you get in touch with your local council's adult social care team, they will arrange a free needs assessment to determine what level of care and support you require. This assessment is your legal right under the Care Act 2014 and must be offered to anyone who appears to need care, regardless of their financial situation.
If the assessment concludes that you have eligible care needs, the council will then carry out a financial assessment (means test) to determine how much, if anything, they will contribute towards the cost. In England, the upper capital threshold for 2024/25 is £23,250. Above this you are expected to fund your own care. Below £14,250, the council covers the majority of the cost and you contribute from your income only.
Could care be fully funded by the NHS?
If your care needs are primarily driven by a health condition rather than social or personal care needs, you may be eligible for NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC), a fully funded package of care with no means test. Conditions such as advanced dementia, complex nursing needs, or end-of-life care are common qualifying circumstances. Use our CHC Assessment tool to check your eligibility before contacting your local authority.
