What type of care do I need?
If you think you, or someone you know, needs care, the first step is to get a care needs assessment from your local council.
If you think you, or someone you know, needs care, the first step is to get a care needs assessment from your local council.
If you think you, or someone you know, needs care, the first step is to get a care needs assessment from your local council.
To get a care needs assessment you’ll need to contact the social services department of your local council and explain you need support with everyday tasks like cooking, dressing and washing. You are entitled to an assessment regardless of your financial status and what your needs are. There is no charge for a care needs assessment. You can call them or get in touch online:
A social care professional from the council will visit you to find out how you are coping with everyday activities. Some of the things they will look at include:
The assessor will also take into account opinions of your GP and any other professionals who care for you. This is to make sure they have as much information about you to make the best decision about your needs.
Before your care needs assessment you should think about what kind of support you feel you need such as:
By giving as much detail as you can about all the elements of daily life you struggle with, no matter how small, your assessor can make a far more informed decision regarding your results.
Yes. If you have a friend or carer who is available, ask them to be there during your assessment especially if you aren’t confident explaining your situation.
If you aren’t able to have a friend, relative or carer present you can use an advocate. Advocates can help you fill in forms and speak on your behalf should you wish them to. You can use the NHS tool to find an advocate in your area.
Here are some useful organisations which may be able to provide you with more information:
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