Hertfordshire County Council has been asked to review its social care practices to ensure it meets its Care Act duties to help people keep their home tidy.

An investigation by the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman found the council routinely telling people it would not fund support to maintain a habitable home, and that they should find the money themselves.

This contravenes the Care Act, which states being unable to maintain a habitable home environment is one of the key factors which may negatively affect a person’s quality of life.

The Ombudsman investigated a complaint from a woman who has various medical conditions, is cared for in bed, and receives support from the council to be cared for at home.

The council reassessed the woman when her needs changed in 2018 and said her care package could be streamlined and her personal budget reduced.

The Ombudsman’s investigation found the council’s reassessment did not properly define which of the woman’s needs were eligible for support. This makes it unclear (...)