What is reablement?

Reablement, sometimes called enablement, is short-term support for people who need help to gain or relearn skills for day to day life. This might be help with washing, cooking, or dressing and might include learning new ways of doing things.

The service works by a reablement worker coming in every day to support you. The reablement worker won’t do things for you but will encourage and assist you to do them yourself. For example, a reablement worker could teach you to prepare a meal if there has been a change that means you need to cook for the first time.

Most reablement services are limited to 6 weeks. After this time, if you still need support, you will be assessed for more permanent care services.

Some areas may also offer a local mental health reablement service. This support with mental health will focus on coping techniques, promoting social inclusion, building self-esteem and goal setting. Mental health reablement can refer to other support services. You may be referred to these services following an assessment by a social care or health professional.