The purpose of a carers assessment is
- to establish what level of care the carer is willing and able to provide, and to determine whether their caring role is sustainable
- to determine what resources the carer needs to support them in the caring role, and decide how these resources can best be provided
- to assess what is required to maintain the carer's health and wellbeing, and decide how these resources can best be provided
- to identify the care provided by a carer and the carer's views so that they can be taken into account before the local authority decides what package of care to provide to the cared-for person
Who is entitled to carers assessment?
- carers will be entitled to an assessment whenever they want, regardless of whether the cared-for person is being assessed
- young carers will have the same right to an assessment (currently those under 16 do not)
How do I get carers assessment?
This is normally arranged through contacting your local social work office. Further advice and support is available from your local carers centre/project.