Most people will need adult social care at some point in their lives, either for themselves or for someone they care about. Yet many people are unaware of the vital role it plays, or that they could one day rely on it themselves.

That is why everyone in Wolverhampton is being urged to take part in the Big Conversation on Care – and help shape the future of services that support adults to live independently, safely and well.

Organised by the Independent Commission on Adult Social Care, the national conversation is seeking views from people of all ages and backgrounds, not just those who currently receive care and support. The feedback will help inform future recommendations for reform both locally and nationally.

Councillor Linda Leach, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Adult Services, is encouraging everyone to take part, whether they currently use care services or not.

She said: "When people hear the term adult social care, many assume it is part of the NHS, but it is actually a service commissioned by councils to help adults live independently, safely and well.

"Adult social care supports people in many different ways. It helps older people, people with disabilities, people living with long term health conditions and people recovering from illness or injury to continue living fulfilling lives in their communities.

“It can also support working age adults who have a disability or a mental health need, and young people who have care needs as a child and need support in preparing for adulthood.

"Most of us will make use of adult social care at some point in our lives, either because we need support ourselves or because someone we know does. It could be a parent, partner, neighbour, friend or family member.

"That is why this conversation is so important, and why we want everyone to get involved, not just people who currently receive care and support services – every resident has a stake in what adult social care looks like in the future.

"Your experiences, views and ideas can help shape future services and contribute to the national debate about how care should be delivered in the years ahead.

"And if you know someone who may find it difficult to complete the survey on their own, please help them to take part, because it is vital that as many voices as possible are heard."

The Big Conversation on Care is being led by the Independent Commission on Adult Social Care, chaired by Baroness Casey. It is seeking views on how care and support services should meet the needs of current and future generations, and will use feedback from people across the country to help inform its recommendations to Government.

Residents can take part by visiting The Big Conversation on Care.