Complete a care needs assessment
What is a care needs assessment?
- If you’re struggling to cope and think you need help, the first step is to get a care needs assessment. The assessment reviews local services and community options to meet your needs. This includes home care packages or moving into a care home.
How you can complete a care needs assessment
A care needs assessment is free. You can get one no matter your income, savings, or needs. A friend or carer can ask for a care needs assessment on your behalf, with your permission.
If you lack the mental capacity to decide if you need one, someone can request it for you. They can do this if they believe it's in your best interests.
You can complete a care needs assessment online, or it can take place in your home. If you need support with decisions during the assessment, a friend, family member, or advocate can be there too. Find out more about advocates.
If you’re in hospital, we’ll chat with you before you are discharged. We’ll discuss any support you may need at home as you recover.
Start your care needs assessment
The needs assessment will look at what kind of care and support you need. The needs assessment will:
- Check if you are eligible for adult social care.
- Make a referral to our adult social care team.
- See how much you may need to pay towards your care.
After the assessment, we will tell you what support you can get and whether you need to pay for it. It is confidential and will only be shared with those involved in your care. This includes anyone with permission to deal with your affairs.
What you should know before starting the assessment
Think about who you want involved in your care. Let us know when we arrange to visit. Before a visit, let us know about any other people or animals who live with you in your property.
What care can be provided based on needs (short/long term)?
By agreeing on a support plan, we can explore ways to help you connect with the community. We’ll also support your independent living at home and assist with your daily care needs. This may include a short-term support package at home with carers visiting. It could also connect you with local activities or explore changes in your accommodation. This is an option if staying at home isn't possible.
Next steps if you are eligible for care:
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If we are going to meet your needs, a care and support plan should be agreed upon and a copy given to you. This will outline your needs and how we will meet them. For example, it includes the care services we will provide for you.
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You will have a financial assessment. This will determine if you qualify for help with the cost of care services. It calculates how much you need to contribute towards the cost (if at all).
Next steps if you are not eligible for care:
If you are not eligible for care, we will:
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Provide guidance about other support services that can help you.
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Help to support you in completing a referral.
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Provide information about community groups and partners.