Apply for a Care Needs Assessment
A care needs assessment is the first step to finding out if you, or someone you care for, may need help with daily living. Whether it's support with personal care, mobility, or household tasks, the assessment will help identify what support is required to help you live as independently as possible.
Who can apply?
You can apply for a care needs assessment if you:
- Are aged 18 or over
- Have a physical disability, learning difficulty, mental health condition, or long-term illness
- Struggle with day-to-day tasks like washing, dressing, or cooking
- Care for someone and need additional support
Assessments are free and available to anyone who meets the above criteria, regardless of financial situation.
How to apply
To apply for a care needs assessment, you can:
- Email us – contact@yourcouncil.gov.uk
- Call us on 01234 567890
You can also apply on behalf of someone else if they give their consent. A social worker or other professional can also refer someone for an assessment.
What happens during the assessment?
A trained social care professional will contact you to arrange an appointment. The assessment can take place:
- In your home
- Over the phone
- At another agreed location
During the assessment, you'll have the chance to discuss your needs and the challenges you face. The assessor will ask about:
- Your daily routine and any difficulties you experience
- Your current health and medical conditions
- Your living situation, including any help you already receive
The assessor may also speak to family members or carers, if you agree, to get a fuller picture of your situation.
What happens after the assessment?
Following the assessment, the council will:
- Provide a care plan – If you’re eligible for support, we’ll work with you to create a tailored care plan. This might include help from carers, equipment, or adaptations to your home.
- Signpost to other services – If you don’t qualify for council support, we’ll provide advice and information on other services and organisations that could help.
- Review your needs – Your care plan will be regularly reviewed to ensure it still meets your needs.
What if I’m not happy with the outcome?
If you disagree with the outcome of your assessment, you can ask for a review or make a formal complaint by contacting contact@yourcouncil.gov.uk.
Get in touch
If you have any questions about applying for a care needs assessment, or need assistance completing your application, please contact us on 01234 567890 for more information.