Who's who in care: the professionals you may meet
Part of Care choices
By CareCircle Family editorial team · Published 2026-09-26 · Last reviewed 2026-09-26 · 5 min read
Care often involves a GP, community or district nurses, a council social worker, therapists such as an occupational therapist, paid carers and sometimes specialist or palliative teams. Knowing who does what helps you ask the right person the right question.
Health professionals
The GP is usually the first point of contact for health concerns and referrals. Community and district nurses visit people at home for nursing tasks. Pharmacists can help with questions about how medicines are supplied. Hospital teams hand back to community services when someone is discharged.
Social care professionals
In England, adult social care at the local council carries out care needs assessments and carer's assessments, and a social worker may coordinate a support plan. An occupational therapist can look at equipment and changes that help someone stay safe and independent at home.
Paid carers and providers
Home care agencies, care homes and nursing homes are regulated. In England you can check their inspection reports with the Care Quality Commission; the other nations have their own regulators.
Keep a simple directory
Write down each person's name, role, organisation and how they prefer to be contacted. Families often lose time because the right number is in one person's phone.
A gentle checklist
- Note the GP practice and main contact
- Record any named nurse, social worker or therapist
- Add care provider office numbers
- Ask each professional how they prefer to be contacted
Official guidance and further reading
Check these organisations for the latest rules and guidance for your location.
Frequently asked questions
- Who do I contact about a worsening health concern?
- Contact the GP, or NHS 111 if it's urgent. In an emergency, call 999. Family notes can help you explain what you've noticed, but they don't replace clinical advice.
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