Glossary: key care terms explained
The world of health and social care uses terminology that can sometimes feel confusing. We have compiled this glossary to help you understand the most common terms you may encounter.
A
Assessment
A process of evaluating your care and support needs, preferences, and goals. Used to determine eligibility for services and to develop a personalised care plan.
C
Care Act 2014
The primary piece of legislation governing adult social care in England. It sets out the duties of local authorities, eligibility criteria for care and support, and the rights of individuals and carers.
Care Certificate
A set of 15 minimum standards that all new health and social care workers must complete during their induction period.
Care Plan
A detailed written document setting out the care and support you will receive, based on your assessed needs and personal preferences. Reviewed regularly and updated as your needs change.
Care Quality Commission (CQC)
The independent regulator of health and social care services in England. The CQC inspects and rates services against five key questions: is it safe, effective, caring, responsive, and well-led?
Continuing Healthcare (CHC)
A package of care fully funded by the NHS for individuals assessed as having a primary health need.
D
DBS Check
A Disclosure and Barring Service check, a criminal record check required for anyone working with vulnerable adults or children.
Dementia
A group of symptoms caused by brain disorders, including progressive memory loss, confusion, and difficulty with thinking and communication. Common types include Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia.
Direct Payments
Money given by the local authority directly to you so you can arrange and purchase your own care and support, giving you choice and control.
Domiciliary Care
Professional care and support provided in your own home. Also known as home care.
Duty of Candour
A legal requirement for care providers to be open and transparent with service users when something goes wrong, including notifying them of incidents that could cause harm.
M
MAR Chart
A Medication Administration Record, used to document when medications are given, prompted, or refused.
Mental Capacity Act 2005 (MCA)
A law that protects people who may lack the mental capacity to make certain decisions for themselves. It sets out principles for assessing capacity and making best-interest decisions.
N
NMC
The Nursing and Midwifery Council, the professional regulatory body for nurses and midwives in the United Kingdom.
P
Person-Centred Care
An approach that puts the individual at the centre of all care decisions, respecting their preferences, values, and goals.
Personal Budget
The amount of money allocated by the local authority to fund your care and support, following a needs and financial assessment.
R
Respite Care
Short-term care provided to give a regular family carer a temporary break from their caring responsibilities.
Risk Assessment
A systematic process of identifying potential hazards or risks and putting measures in place to reduce or manage them.
S
Safeguarding
The process of protecting adults at risk from abuse, neglect, and harm, involving individuals and organisations working together.
Skills for Care
The strategic body for workforce development in adult social care in England, setting standards for training and development.
Spot Check
An unannounced visit by a manager to observe care delivery, ensuring standards are maintained and the care plan is followed.