21. Housing and Employment (updated 2026)

Adult Social Care and Choice of Accommodation

21.24A Local Authority discharging its duty under section 117 of the Mental Health Act 1983 (applicable where a person has been compulsorily treated in hospital for a mental disorder), must ensure a person is offered a choice of suitable accommodation that meets their care and support needs. If the accommodation chosen is more expensive than what a Local Authority would expect to, or is willing to pay, the person or a nominated person acting on their behalf needs to be made aware of the cost implications for them. Raising awareness allows for an informed choice to be made before an official agreement to pay the extra costs (top-up payment) is entered into.