This report considers the key role of social care for people living with mental health distress and mental illness. The report has been prepared by the Association, on behalf of the Mental Health Social Care Policy and Oversight Group, for the Department of Health and Social Care. The Policy and Oversight Group brings together partners from across the statutory and VCSE sectors, people with lived experience of mental illness and unpaid carers, to consider the strategic priorities for social care and support services for people who live with mental illness or experience mental distress and those people with relevant other needs e.g. related to alcohol and substance misuse and homelessness. Facilitated by the Association of Mental Health Providers, it meets monthly and is co-chaired by the Association and the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services.