If you or someone you care for struggles with tasks such as washing, dressing, managing medication, or preparing meals, you may be eligible for a social care needs assessment. This is the first step towards getting help, support, or services from your local council. In this post, we explain what a care needs assessment is, how to apply for one, what to expect, and some tips to help things go smoothly.
What is a Social Care Needs Assessment?
A social care assessment is a free evaluation carried out by your local council to determine what support you need to live independently and safely. There’s no charge for a care needs assessment and you’re entitled to one regardless of your income, savings or level of need. The assessment looks at your daily activities, wellbeing, and how your needs impact your quality of life.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
You have the right to request a social care assessment if you believe you may need support. The assessment is available to:
- Adults aged 18 and over
- People with physical or mental health conditions
- Those with learning disabilities
- Anyone struggling with daily activities like washing, dressing, or cooking
- People who feel their wellbeing is being affected by their circumstances
Important to note: You don’t need to prove you’re eligible before requesting an assessment. The council will determine this during the process.
Step 2: Contact Your Local Council
The first step is reaching out to your local council’s adult social services department. You can:
- Visit the GOV.UK website to find your local council’s contact details
- Call your local council directly and ask to speak to adult social services
- Visit your local council offices in person if you prefer face-to-face contact
- Ask a friend, family member, or carer to make the request on your behalf
Important to note: You can ask for someone to act on your behalf with your consent such as a carer or relative.
Step 3: Complete the Initial Screening
After your initial contact, the council will likely conduct a brief screening over the phone or through a form. They’ll ask basic questions about:
- Your current living situation
- The difficulties you’re experiencing
- What support you currently receive
- Your immediate needs and concerns
This initial contact helps them prioritise your case and determine the urgency of your assessment.
Step 4: Prepare for Your Assessment
Your local authority decides how long you will wait for an assessment. and the waiting time will be dependent on the urgency of your needs. It’s a good idea to use this waiting time to prepare effectively and here are some tips to help you do this:
Tip 1: Gather Important Documents:
- Medical records or letters from healthcare professionals
- List of current medications
- Details of any existing support services
- Financial information (though this won’t affect your right to an assessment)
Tip 2: Keep a Daily Living Diary:
For a week or two before your assessment, record:
- Tasks you struggle with or cannot do
- Times when you need help
- How your condition affects your daily routine
- Any safety concerns or near-miss incidents
Tip 3: Think About Your Goals:
Consider what you’d like to achieve with support, such as:
- Remaining in your own home safely
- Maintaining independence
- Continuing hobbies or social activities
- Reducing stress on family carers
Step 5: The Assessment Process
Someone from the council, such as a social worker or occupational therapist, will ask you how you’re managing everyday tasks like washing, dressing and cooking. The assessment typically covers:
Daily Living Activities:
- Personal care (washing, dressing, eating)
- Household tasks (cleaning, cooking, shopping)
- Mobility and getting around
- Managing medications
- Social contact and relationships
Your Wellbeing:
- Physical and mental health
- Safety in your home and community
- Social connections and activities
- Work, education, or training needs
Important to note: It can be a good idea to have someone with you at the assessment such as a carer or relative. Be honest about your struggles. It’s not about proving you can’t do something, but is about getting the right support to live well.
Step 6: Understanding Eligibility Criteria
There are three conditions which determine eligibility: you have needs due to a physical or mental impairment or illness, you are unable to carry out at least two daily activities, there is a significant impact on your wellbeing as a result of not being able to carry out these activities.
All three conditions must be met for you to be eligible for support:
- Your needs arise from a physical or mental condition
- You cannot achieve two or more daily living outcomes
- There’s a significant impact on your wellbeing
Step 7: Receiving Your Care and Support Plan
If you’re eligible for support, the council will work with you to create a personalised care and support plan. This document will outline:
- Your assessed needs and how they’ll be met
- The types of support available to you
- Your personal budget (if applicable)
- How your support will be reviewed
- Emergency contact information
Step 8: Exploring Your Support Options
Depending on your needs, support might include:
- Home care services (help with personal care, cleaning, or meals)
- Day centres and community activities
- Equipment and adaptations for your home
- Direct payments to arrange your own care
- Respite care to give family carers a break
- Residential care if needed
Step 9: Financial Assessment
This is done by the council to establish whether you have the means to meet some or all of the cost of your care support or whether you are eligible for council funding. The financial assessment looks at:
- Your income (such as benefits and pensions)
- Your savings
- And in the case of residential care, your property
The question of care funding is quite complex and is dependent on whether you need care at home or residential care. For a more detailed look at this, there is more information here and here.
What If You’re Not Eligible for Social Care?
Don’t despair if you don’t meet the eligibility criteria. The council should still provide you with information and advice about other sources of support, including:
- Voluntary and community organisations
- NHS services
- Private care options
- Preventative services
- Equipment that you can purchase yourself
Final Tips for Success
- Don’t wait until it’s a crisis – it’s easier to get support before problems become severe
- Bring a friend or advocate to your assessment for support and to help you remember important points
- Ask questions during the process – you have the right to understand every step
- Keep records of all communications with the council
- Request a review if your circumstances change or if you disagree with the assessment outcome
Remember, requesting a social care assessment is your right, not a favour. The system exists to support you in living the best life possible, so don’t hesitate to reach out when you need help. Taking this first step towards getting support is a positive move towards maintaining your independence and wellbeing.
Useful Resources and Next Steps
- Age UK: Offers comprehensive information and local support services
- Scope: Provides guidance specifically for people with disabilities
- Carers UK: Support for people caring for family members or friends
- Citizens Advice: Free advice on benefits, rights, and local services
- NHS: Getting a care needs assessment
- MIND: Information especially relevant to mental health
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Sarah
Sarah Okoro is the Managing Director of Vivacity Healthcare, bringing over thirty years of cross-sector experience to the organisation. She is a Chartered Manager and a Fellow of the Chartered Management Institute and holds a master’s level qualification in Strategic Leadership.
Connect with Sarah on Linkedin and follow Vivacity Healthcare on Instagram and Facebook or you can contact her here.