Enablement services

This short-term support is focused on helping you do things for yourself, rather than doing them for you, with the aim of reducing or avoiding the need for long-term care.

What are enablement services?

Enablement is a free, time-limited service (up to six weeks) that helps people rebuild daily living skills after illness, injury, surgery, or reduced mobility.

Enablement is suitable for people who:

• have recently been discharged from hospital and need help adjusting at home
• have lost confidence or ability in managing personal care or household tasks
• are likely to recover well with short-term support

You will receive a personalised plan to help you regain independence and reduce reliance on ongoing care.

What support does enablement include?

Enablement workers may support you with:

• personal care, such as washing, dressing, or getting in and out of bed
• daily tasks like preparing meals, light housework, or shopping
• rebuilding confidence in moving around the home safely
• medication prompts to support safe recovery
• access to rehabilitation, physiotherapy, or occupational therapy if needed

Unlike standard home care, enablement is designed to encourage independence, helping you regain control over your day-to-day life.

How do enablement services work?

Enablement support typically follows these stages:

• assessment - a care professional will visit your home to assess your needs and agree on goals
• support at home - you’ll receive visits from trained staff to help you practise daily tasks and regain confidence
• progress reviews - your progress will be monitored throughout the enablement period
• next steps - if longer-term support is needed, a care assessment will be arranged before the service ends

Most people either complete enablement without needing further support, or move on to a smaller care package.

How long does it last?

Enablement services usually last up to six weeks, depending on your needs and progress. The service is free of charge during this period if you are eligible.

If you need ongoing care after the enablement service ends, adult social care will carry out a full care and financial assessment to explore the best options moving forward.

What happens if I need more support?

If you continue to have difficulties managing on your own, you may be referred for:

• a home care package with regular carer visits equipment such as walking frames, hoists, or home adaptations
• ongoing support from community nurses, physiotherapists, or occupational therapists

Your needs will be reassessed before enablement ends to ensure there is no gap in support.

How to access enablement services

You may be referred for enablement in one of the following ways:

• in hospital - the discharge team will assess whether you qualify as part of your discharge planning
• at home - if your circumstances change, you can contact adult social care directly for an assessment

Enablement is only available to people who meet eligibility criteria.

Referrals are assessed by care professionals to ensure the service is appropriate for your needs.

For more information

Phone: 020 8314 7777 or email: gateway@lewisham.gov.uk.