Different Types of Assesment

Community Care Assessment (NHS and Community Care 1990)

This describes the process when a social worker or other health or social care professional looks at the needs of somebody with an illness or disability and assesses what community care services are required to meet those needs (for instance a Day Centre place or care in the home). Many now use a “single assessment process” which is an assessment for the disabled person and their carers carried out by all the health and social care professionals involved in the situation.

Financial Assessment

Local authorities can make a charge for services provided after your community care assessment (which vary according to where you live), but this is subject to a means tested financial assessment. Most policies have a minimum (sometimes nothing) and maximum weekly charge.

The person receiving the services will be asked to complete financial assessment forms (or these may be completed by the social worker doing the assessment). Completing the forms is important, as if they are not the maximum charge will be payable. Depending on the level of income and the amount of services required, this might still be cheaper than paying for care privately.

It is important to note that whoever receives the service is who’s income it gets assessed against.

Care Programme Approach Assessment (CPA)
National Service Framework for Mental Health

Standard 6 states that where a carer is caring for a patient on an enhanced CPA (Care Programme Approach), the needs of the carer should be assessed, a written plan compiled and that this should be reviewed at least once a year.

Family Assessment (Children Act 1989)

In the case of a disabled child with special needs, the assessment should look at the family as a whole unit when considering appropriate services for the child and support for the parents (carers).

Young Carer’s Assessment

Young people (aged under 18) who provide care to adult family members are also entitled to an assessment of their needs. This should normally be carried out by local Children’s Department under the provisions of the Children’s Act 1989. However in certain circumstances children aged 16 and 17 can have a carers assessment under the Carers and Disabled Children’s Act 2000 or if under 16 in special circumstances under the Carers recognition and Services Act 1995. For more infomation, visit our young carer’s website.

Occupational Therapy Assessment

This looks at the needs of the person cared for, in their environment. It can result in the provision of aids and/or adaptations to the home in order to make life easier.

Health Assessments

Health professionals (district nurses, physiotherapists etc.) will usually undertake their own assessment before starting treatment. We are more used to describing a Doctor’s assessment of your health as an “appointment” or “consultation”. Health Professionals will also be involved in the “single assessment” process.

Discharge from Hospital (Home Assessments)

Under the delayed Discharges Act 2003, if a patient is due for hospital discharge and the carer is concerned about how they will provide care in their home, they are now entitled to a home assessment, which includes the caring role. This assessment should determine the need for aids and adaptations and home care, the latter being provided free of charge for a 6 week trial period.

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