DISCLAIMER:

This duty is currently under review and has not yet been formally signed off by the relevant professional association. The information provided is for reference only and should not be treated as final or authoritative guidance. Please verify any decisions against approved sources or seek professional advice. Updates will be published once sign-off is complete.

Simple terms explainer

Councils must work together with other organisations—like the NHS, housing services, charities, and other public bodies—to make sure people get the right care and support. This means sharing information, planning services together, and making sure different teams are working towards the same goals. By cooperating, councils can help avoid gaps in support, reduce duplication, and make services more joined-up and effective for the people who need them.

Legal status

Statutory


Duty category

Adult social care


Duty type

Compliance


Social determinant of health

Social and community context

Related data returns

Adult Support and Protection Biennial Report - Submission to Scottish Government every two years. Evidences how local Adult Protection Committees have exercised their statutory functions to safeguard adults at risk.

Adult Support and Protection National Minimum Dataset - Quarterly submission to Scottish Government. Provides data on adult protection activity and oversight of how councils fulfil their duties to protect adults at risk of harm.

Bodies with shared interest

Health Boards
Health & Social Care Partnerships
Police Scotland
Social Work Scotland
Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA)
Improvement Service

Standards and frameworks


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