As it stands, there is no legal definitions for “social care” or “healthcare”. The NHS however produces guidance in an attempt to distinguish healthcare from social care.

The Mental Capacity Act 2005 (the “Act”) aims to protect and empower vulnerable people who may lack the mental capacity to make some decisions. The Act applies to everyone working in health care, social care and other sectors who are involved in the support and treatment of people.

In England, hospitals that provide inpatient care, urgent treatment centres, and emergency departments all have a duty to refer Clients to the local authority homelessness/housing options team of their choice where they are homeless/likely to become homeless within 56 days.