We were pleased to be invited to contribute to a Local Government Association publication to mark ten years of the Care Act 2014. It examines what the Act has helped to achieve, but also what more needs to be done so that people can live the life they choose.

Our article in the ‘Provision and innovation’ chapter focuses on how community micro-enterprises support the aims of the Care Act, specifically around promoting diversity and quality of services. It highlights that more needs to be done to break down barriers to providing a varied and imaginative care market. It also asserts that we need to address stringent local direct payment policies and processes that are in place.

The article features case study examples of how community micro-enterprises support a diverse and creative care market, and help people use their direct payments in ways that work for them.

So, what needs to happen? Read the article to find out.