City of Edinburgh Council
The City of Edinburgh Council's Social Care Support department offers a range of services accessible via phone. You can inquire about social care for children, families, older adults, and those with disabilities or mental health issues. The department handles urgent assessments and referrals for support. Operating hours are Monday to Thursday from 08:30 to 17:00 and Friday from 08:30 to 15:50. For emergencies outside these hours, a separate number is available. Common reasons to call include seeking advice, making referrals, or requesting urgent assessments. While specific wait times aren't provided, urgent cases are prioritized. It's advisable to call during mid-morning or early afternoon to avoid peak times.
Updated 15 Dec 2025
Expected outcomes
- Make social care enquiries
- Request urgent assessments
- Refer for social care support
- Receive advice on services
- Update existing support details
Call preparation
Assemble everything before you dial. These requirements are verified by our call analysts and updated as organizations change their scripts.
- Basic personal details
- Description of care need
- Contact information
- Details of urgent situation
- Support needs
- Emergency contact details
Known issues
Long waiting times are a frequent issue due to high demand. The department prioritizes urgent cases, which may lead to delays for non-critical needs. If your situation is not urgent, consider exploring alternative organizations for support. To minimize wait times, try calling during less busy periods, such as mid-morning. Additionally, using the online referral form can sometimes expedite the process. Always have your personal and support details ready to ensure a smoother interaction.
