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If you are finding it hard to manage on your own or with caring for a loved one, browse Live Well B&NES for local support services and activities which will likely help you, including groups and activities for older people, support for carers, health and wellbeing services and help to live at home. 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, a care needs assessment is the first step.
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 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
Request a care needs assessment by calling 01225 394570 and selecting option 2. Phone lines are open Monday to Thursday, 8.30am to 5pm, and Fridays, 8.30am to 4.30pm.
What will happen
When you call you will be taken through an initial assessment over the phone which can take up to 30 minutes.
You (or the person you are calling about) will then be referred for a social care and support assessment with a suitably qualified person, this will usually take place in person. Alternatively certain services relevant to your needs may be recommended instead.
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 completing a form with information about your income and assets. See paying for social care and support for more information.