Adult Services

Who can get help?


Everyone is entitled to an assessment of their needs to see if the Department can help. We concentrate our efforts on help that will keep people living independently for as long as possible - such as help when people first come out of hospital, or providing simple equipment that will make life easier - and long-term help for people with the most severe needs. To make sure that money is spent fairly, people's needs are assessed against national standards that are called 'eligibility criteria'.

Assessment - what help do you need?

Everyone is entitled to an assessment of their needs to see if the Department can help.

When you contact the Adult Services Department, someone will ask about the problems you are having. If the outcome of this initial discussion is that you would benefit from further assessment, we will make you an appointment to meet a Care Manager - often in your own home - for a detailed 'assessment' of what help you need. This means that you will be able to talk in detail about the problems you are having and the Care Manager will try to find the best way of helping to reduce the risks that are preventing you living safely and independently at home. Even if you do not need further support from Adult Services, we will offer you information and advice about ways you can find the help you want.

Whenever possible Adult Services will give you choices about the help and services they can give you. When it has been agreed what kind of help you need, and how it will be provided, you will get a written 'care plan'. This plan is regularly reviewed with you.

You are entitled to have an assessment of your needs even if you may be paying for your care yourself, and if you would like support to make arrangements for your care we will also help you with this.

Additional information