Changing how we support adults and communities in Norfolk
Adult Social Services and Public Health support people to live well, stay independent, and feel safe. Every day, over 13,000 people in Norfolk receive support from our services at all stages of life.
Our mission is to empower residents and communities to live their best life as they define it, by fostering independence, building strong partnerships, tailoring support, and learning continuously.
This includes helping people to live independently at home, support for unpaid carers, mental health and wellbeing services, safeguarding adults at risk, public health programmes that improve wellbeing across communities, and working with care providers and partners to make sure support is safe and effective.
We are changing how we work, so support feels more local and more connected to everyday life. This is about improving relationships and outcomes for residents. It is about listening first, acting earlier, and working alongside people, families, and communities.
Why change is needed
More people in Norfolk are living longer. Many have more complex needs. Families are more spread out and communities are changing. If support stays the same, it will become increasingly difficult to meet people's needs in the future.
We know people want timely, joined‑up support that fits their lives, is easily accessible and helps them live the way they want to. Our approach is changing to reflect this.
What is changing
We are changing how we support people, so it starts with a conversation, not a process. We take time to listen and understand what matters to each person first. Staff have more freedom to listen, use their judgement, and respond in ways that make sense locally. Support is shaped around people, not systems, and is focused on improving people's lives as simply and effectively as possible.
Working locally and with communities
Strong communities help people live well. We are working more closely with neighbourhoods, voluntary groups, and partners to support people closer to home.
This means practical help, advice, and support that builds confidence and independence.
What this will mean for residents
You can expect clearer conversations and fewer hand‑offs, where expertise is drawn from a range of partners and services to meet your needs. Support should feel more joined‑up, respectful and focused on what matters to you, aimed at helping you live well, and more independently.
When people need formal care or statutory support, it will still be there, and we will continue to work closely with the care provider market to ensure a high standard of care.
We are also developing new and more flexible ways to support people earlier, using technology and proactive intervention programmes that help spot issues sooner and offer support before things become harder. And innovative programmes like Independent Living offer people more choice about where to live later in life.
Key facts
- Adult Social Services support thousands of residents across Norfolk every day.
- Demand for care and support continues to rise as the population changes.
- Most support is provided by independent and community‑based organisations working with the council.
- We work closely with the care market to ensure that everyone receives a high standard of care.
- Acting earlier and building relationships leads to better outcomes for people and communities.
Getting in touch
If you need advice or support, contact Norfolk County Council Adult Social Services through our website or Customer Service Centre.
Telephone: 0344 800 8020
