If you contact adult social care yourself, or if someone refers you, like your GP, we may decide that an assessment would help you.
An assessment is offered when we need to talk in more detail to understand your needs and how best to support you.
Assessments are based on your needs and can be done in different ways.
Initial conversation
This is the first step when you contact the council, for yourself or someone else.
We will ask questions to understand what:
- goals you want to achieve
- are your own strengths
- support you have from family, friends and the community
- choices you want to make
This conversation helps us decide the best support for you.
You may get advice about local help and ways to reduce or prevent care needs.
If it is decided that you may be able to get support, we will arrange the right assessment.
Social care assessment
After the first conversation, you may be offered a social care assessment.
This is a full assessment done in your home. It helps us understand your care and support needs and whether you qualify for council support.
Anyone can ask for this assessment.
We look at what you can do for yourself and how we can help you stay independent and well.
If you are eligible, we will make a support plan with you. This may include community and voluntary services.
If you are not eligible, we will give you information and advice to help you.