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If you are finding it hard to manage on your own or with caring for a loved one, start by browsing our adults needing support section. Here you'll find local support services which could help you, including groups and activities, health and wellbeing services, help to live independently at home and support for carers. Try the Unsure where to start tool, for personalised search results based on a series of questions about your needs.
What is a care needs assessment?
If you're struggling to do things on a daily basis and think you might need extra support from social care, you can ask for a care needs assessment.
A care needs assessment is free, and you're entitled to one regardless of your financial situation or level of need.
The assessment works out what kind of extra care or support would meet your needs and can include adaptions to your home, practical help from a paid carer or moving into a care home.
You might be asked to contribute to the cost of some, or all of the services recommended by the assessment, but this will depend on your situation and the type of service recommended.
Carer's assessments
If you look after someone with a disability or health problems, in an un-paid capacity, you are a carer and you are entitled to a carer's assessment, even if the person you care for does not want, need or receive support services themselves.
Preparing for an assessment
Before you ask for a care needs assessment think about what is working well at the moment and what you might need help with, such as washing and dressing, eating properly, being safe at home, managing your home and money and getting out and about.
It's a good idea to ask a friend or relative to support you during the assessment, this may help if you're not confident explaining your situation. They can also take notes for you. Alternatively, you can use an advocate, who can help you understand the assessment process, communicate your views and feelings, and fill in forms.
A relative or friend can arrange a care needs assessment on your behalf, but you have to agree to the assessment (unless you don't have the capacity to make or communicate that decision).
Request a care needs assessment in Bath and North East Somerset
Use the B&NES council Adult Social Care Portal Referral Form to get in touch and ask for information and advice or help, including asking for a care needs assessment. The self-referral form allows you to tell your story and outline what might help you.
You can also ask a care professional to refer you to adult social care using the professionals portal.
What will happen
After you submit your referral, someone from adult social care will contact you, to help understand your needs and how adult social care can help.
You (or the person you are supporting) may then be referred for a social care and support assessment with a suitably qualified person, or other services relevant to your needs may be recommended instead. Learn more about the Access, Advice and Information Team.
Paying for support
If the care needs assessment identifies that your needs meet the national eligibility criteria (as described in the Care Act), you will be eligible for certain statutory services. Depending on your circumstances, you may or may not have to pay for these services. A financial assessment will be carried out which works out what you will need to pay towards the cost of any care (if anything). This involves giving information about your income and assets. See paying for social care and support for more information.
Last updated: 3 March 2026