Supporting People Local Area Co-ordinators (LAC) : Cumbria County Council

What is Local Area Co-ordination?

Local Area Co-ordination is known as the ‘LAC’ service. This is a new service that has been operational since June 2010.

The LAC will work with anyone aged 16+ who is felt to be vulnerable through social exclusion. This can be as a result of a physical disability, learning disability, mental health issues, substance misuse, offending behaviour and care leavers.

The LAC will work with individuals and families if appropriate, on a casework basis where there is no other identified statutory case or Care Manager; for example a Social Worker, Mental Health Nurse or Probation Officer.

Local Area Co-ordinators will:

build and maintain effective working relationships with individuals, families and their communities
provide accurate and timely information, assist individuals, families and communities to access information through a variety of means
provide individuals and families with support and practical assistance to clarify their goals, strengths and needs
promote self advocacy, provide support and access to independent advocacy when required
contribute to building inclusive communities through partnership and collaboration with individuals and families, local organisations and the broader community
assist individuals and families to utilise personal and local community networks to develop practical solutions to meet their goals and needs
assist individuals and families to access the supports and services they need to pursue their identified goals and needs.

If you would like to make a referral to the service or refer yourself you can do so by completing the attached form below "LAC Referral Form" and return to referralslac@cumbria.gov.uk Alternatively you can contact the LAC worker directly for your district. Their contact details can be found on our Contact Us page.

LAC Referral Form (48KB WORD)