THE council has welcomed the biggest change to adult health and social care law in more than 60 years - which will come into effect on Wednesday, April 1.

The Care Act aims to put patients in control of their care and is set to make the care and support system more consistent across the country.

Those who receive care and support from the council, give unpaid assistance to an adult family member or friend and residents who think they are in need of care may benefit from the changes.

In Warrington, the council and its partners will be working together to focus on residents' health and wellbeing to help prevent, reduce or delay the development of their needs.

The council will be putting people and carers at the heart of the assessment process and give them control over their lives, as well as over how they are supported to be safe.

Advice and help will range from support in the community and from the voluntary sector to specialist support for people with specific needs.

As part of the reforms, everyone with an eligible need, following assessment, will have a legal right to be informed of the amount of their personal budget - the amount of money it will cost to fund the necessary support and care for themselves or their carer.

For the first time, the act will eventually put a limit on the amount anyone will have to pay towards the costs of their care.

Cllr Pat Wright, executive board member for health and wellbeing, said: "Care and support is something that nearly everyone will experience at some point in their lives.

"These changes are significant and will make the system fairer by putting the needs of people, and their carers, at the heart of every care decision.

"This council is ready to take up its new responsibilities and will make sure residents who need social care and support, their carers, and local providers are aware of the improvements and know how to access help and support."

For further information visit www.warrington.gov.uk/careact.