Leglislation required local authorities to provide a range of services. Including practical assistance and home adaptations to people with disabilities, learning disabilities or mental illness.
Following the recommendations of the Seebohm Commission in 1968, legislation required every local authority to establish a single social services department, emphasising 'the need for a co-ordinated and comprehensive approach to social care'.
The white paper, published in June 1971, outlined a desire to move away from caring for people with 'mental handicap' in institutional settings and to increase the provision of local and community care.
A change of government and a change of secretary of state led to the white paper. This outlined significant structural and administrative reform of the health system.
The Act gave effect to the structural and administrative reform of the health system outlined in the 1972 white paper on National Health Service reorganisation.
The 1975 white paper further emphasised the need to move from an institutional model of care to community services. It highlighted the need for early intervention and prevention of mental illness.
During the 1970s, there were several public reports of mistreatment and poor quality of care provided to people with severe learning difficulties and mental health illnesses.
