Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014

The Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014 (‘the Act’) brings together local authorities’ duties and functions in relation to improving the well-being of people who need care and support, and carers who need support. The Act provides the foundation, along with regulations and codes of practice made under it, to a statutory framework for the delivery of social care in Wales to support people of all ages as part of their families and communities.

The fundamental principles of the Act are:

• Voice and control – putting the individual and their needs, at the centre of their care, and giving them a voice in, and control over reaching the outcomes that help them achieve well-being.
• Prevention and early intervention – increasing preventative services within the community to minimise the escalation of critical need.
• Well-being – supporting people to achieve their own well-being and measuring the success of care and support.
• Co-production – encouraging individuals to become more involved in the design and delivery of services.

The Explanatory Notes to the Act provide detailed commentary on the various provisions.

Coming into force

Part 1 and sections 196 to 200 came into force on 2 May 2014, which is the day after the Act received Royal Assent, in accordance with section 199(1).

The remaining provisions of the Act come into force on a day appointed by the Welsh Ministers by order, in accordance with section 199(2).

The following Orders have been made:

• The Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014 (Commencement No. 3, Savings and Transitional Provisions) Order 2016
• The Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014 (Commencement No. 2) Order 2015
• The Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014 (Commencement No. 1) Order 2014

Subordinate legislation made under the Act:

Further legislation, codes and guidance made under the Act are listed in the Social Services subject area of the site.