Social care needs assessment

What is a Social Care Needs Assessment?

A care needs assessment is the first step before receiving social care and support. It plays a crucial role in person-centred care, helping to create a care plan tailored to your needs.

These assessments are carried out by specially trained staff from your local council or care provider. Their goal is to gain a complete understanding of your wellbeing and the areas where you might need support.

The information gathered will help create a care plan, and if you’re receiving care at home, the assessor will aim to match you with care workers whose skills and personalities best suit your needs.

Who Are Care Needs Assessments For?

Care needs assessments are for anyone who needs extra support, whether it’s due to a mental, physical, or learning disability, age-related issues, or a long-term illness.

Assessments are typically conducted at your home, and if you have a friend or relative who helps care for you, they may be eligible for a separate carer’s assessment.

What Can a Care Needs Assessment Do for Me?

The main goal of the assessment is to determine the kind of support you need and how it can be delivered. This might involve getting assistive equipment, support from care workers, nurses, or occupational therapists.

How to Get a Social Care Needs Assessment

Arranging Your First Needs Assessment

To start receiving care, reach out to your local council and request a needs assessment. They are legally required to offer this to you, and it’s funded by the NHS.

Your local authority should provide you with detailed information about the assessment. Likewise, it’s essential to share any specific needs you have, like requiring a sign language interpreter, to ensure the process is accessible for you.

You can also choose to get an assessment through your preferred care home or home care provider. Simply contact them to discuss your needs and schedule an appointment.

Arranging Subsequent Needs Assessments

If you’re already receiving care, you will have regular assessments to ensure your care continues to meet your needs. If you feel your needs have changed or you’d like a new care plan, you can request another assessment.

Do I Have to Start Receiving Care/Support After My Care Needs Assessment?

A needs assessment doesn’t mean you have to receive care. It’s simply an opportunity to explore the options available and decide what’s best for your wellbeing. After the assessment, you can choose whether or not to proceed with receiving care.

Care Needs Assessment Questions

To ensure your assessor understands your needs, it’s helpful to think about your daily struggles and how they affect your life. Here are some of the questions the assessor might ask:

Your Living Situation

• Who do you live with?
• How long have you lived in your home?
• Who owns your home?
• Are you able to manage the upkeep of your home?
• Do you have any safety concerns about your home?
• Have you ever had a fall?
• Do you have pets, and what care do they need?

Finances

• Are you receiving any benefits?
• Do you manage your finances independently, or does someone help?
• Are you able to pay your bills independently?

Your Health

• What health conditions do you have?
• Have you ever had a mental health issue?
• Do you take medication?
• Do you attend any medical appointments regularly?

Looking After Yourself

• What do you eat regularly?
• How do you get your groceries?
• Do you need help with personal hygiene or dressing?
• Do you have difficulty with eating or drinking?

Your Lifestyle

• Do you have a faith or religion? How do you practice it?
• What are your hobbies or interests?
• Do you attend social activities?
• Do you work or volunteer?
• How do you get around when you’re out?

How Is a Care Needs Assessment Carried Out?

Care needs assessments are usually done face-to-face, but they can also be conducted over the phone or online. The assessor will have a form to record your answers and may ask you additional questions during the assessment.

It’s a good idea to have a family member or friend with you during the assessment for support. If you don’t have anyone available, your local council can provide an experienced support worker to help.

During the assessment, your assessor will have a conversation with you about your needs and will likely visit your home to check if it’s a safe environment and whether you need any equipment, such as a hoist or shower chair.

Honesty is key during this process. You may feel embarrassed about asking for help, but it’s important to be open with the assessor. They are trained to handle these situations with care and compassion, and they are there to determine the best course of action to support your health and wellbeing.

When Should a Social Care Needs Assessment Be Reviewed?

Your care needs should be reviewed regularly to ensure your care plan reflects your current needs. This should happen at least once a year, but more frequent reviews may be necessary, such as after hospital visits, changes in your living situation, or any other significant life events.