A care needs assessment is the system by which Hertfordshire County Council can identify your relative’s care needs and understand how they can provide support. This will also enable them to make decisions regarding the funding of your relative’s care and the possibility of a personal budget.
For a more detailed look into exactly what a care needs assessment will consist of and why it could be worth your time, you can take a look at Age Space’s Complete Guide to a Care Needs Assessment.
How to Apply For a Care Needs Assessment in Hertfordshire
To request a care needs assessment from Hertfordshire County Council, your relatives details will need to be entered into the enquiry form found online on the Hertfordshire County Council Website. The adult social services’ assessment team will then aim to respond to your application within the next three working days.
The Care Needs Assessment Process
During the assessment, members of Hertfordshire County Council’s Adult Services team will ask your relative questions about the every day activities they do around the home to assess where there may be difficulties. There may be family members, friends and carers present with your relative’s consent to ensure no stone is left unturned within the assessment.
Using the gathered data, the social care team will be able to determine what care they think is necessary to effectively help your relative. This can include equipment or referring them to a specialist health service. The Council will also provide you with information on how you can apply for financial aid for the care.
What to do if You're Not Happy With the Outcome of the Assessment
If you are unhappy with the outcome of your relative’s assessment, then members of Hertfordshire County Council’s Adult Social Services team will be able to provide you with the relevant contact details for voicing your concern.
There is also a tool on the Hertfordshire County Council website for Making a Complaint, which can include social care complaints, but it is advisable to use the contact details provided by the team you have already had a communication with.
