We can carry out an assessment in your own home or in hospital before you go home. You may also want to involve someone who looks after you (your carer) or someone to speak for you. The assessment can include other people, with your permission, for example your GP.

What happens at the assessment?

At the assessment, we will:

• Consider your views and wishes.
• Ensure that matters such as race and religion are taken into account in your assessment.
• Encourage you to have a friend, relative or someone else present to help you or speak for you if you wish.
• Arrange for an interpreter if you do not speak English or use sign language.
• Consider your carers views.
• Make sure that people involved in your assessment work together effectively and tell you how long each part of the process will take.
• Give you information about the services available and any charges involved.

When you are assessed for social services we will ask you:

• What you think your needs are.
• What problems you are facing.
• What help you have now.

After your assessment, we will discuss with you how best to meet your needs and which services you can receive, who will provide them and where and when they will be provided. If necessary, we can arrange services to meet your needs while your assessment is completed.

We want to help those that need our help, and we need to make sure that our services go to those who need them most. Whether you qualify for a particular service will depend on your level of need. This will be explained to you by your social care worker.

How long should it take?

We aim to start your assessment within 48 hours and complete it within 28 days. If your need is so urgent that there is an immediate risk to your physical or mental health, we will give you essential services to support you while we assess your needs fully.

The outcome of an assessment should be an understanding of which needs are most important and an evaluation of the risks to you if help was not provided.

More information about what to expect from us is explained in the Fair Access to Care Services.

What services can you get?

Your assessment will show us what help you need. Services you might get from us include:

• Support at home including community meals, homecare, day opportunities, helping you to take a break
• Specialist support services for disabled people
• Telecare
• Housing and the home
• Help with transport and mobility.

Who do I contact?

Contact your local adults team if you would like to request an assessment or discuss your care plan.