Care Act 2014 becomes law. The Care Act 2014 received Royal Assent and became law in mid May, ushering in significant reforms for social care for adults and carers, as well as for social workers. People already have a right to ask for a direct payment to meet some or all of their care needs and, from October 2014, the Care Act will ensure that they have a right to receive one. 2  Local authorities can advise people about whether they are eligible for support, and where to get help.