Understanding the context and history of adult social care helps ground your leadership in the values, structures, and struggles that have shaped the system we work in today. As DASS, you are part of a legacy of care, reform, and social justice.
Adult social care in England has evolved through a complex interplay of localism, legislation, and lived experience. From the Poor Laws and post-war welfare state to the Community Care reforms of the 1990s and the introduction of the Care Act in 2014, the system has grown in response to demographic change, political vision, and community need.
The Care Act remains the primary statutory framework. It places wellbeing at the centre of care, defines clear entitlements for individuals and carers, and sets duties for prevention, safeguarding, and market shaping. It also established the legal basis for the DASS role—a statutory leadership position with responsibility for ensuring safe, effective, and equitable care.
But legislation is only part of the picture. The culture and expectations of adult social care have shifted significantly over time. We have moved:
- From institutional care to community living.
- From service-led provision to strengths-based, personalised support.
- From professional authority to co-production and partnership.
These changes continue. The 2024 General Election brought with it a renewed policy ambition for a National Care Service—an idea grounded in equity, sustainability and integration. Directors will need to engage with this evolving vision while navigating real-time delivery pressures and local priorities.
At the same time, the global context is shifting. Economic uncertainty, workforce transformation, and climate adaptation are now key challenges for care systems everywhere. Directors must be fluent in local leadership—but also globally aware.
Your leadership is shaped by the past, but it must face forward. Understanding history helps you make sense of your duties. Understanding context helps you lead with wisdom, courage and purpose.
You are not starting from scratch. But you are helping write the next chapter.