UK Guidance
Care Assessments (UK)
The first step in accessing care and support.
A care assessment is usually the starting point for accessing support through your local authority.
This may involve an assessment of the person needing care, and a separate assessment for you as a carer.
Both are important in understanding what support is needed.
What a care assessment is
A care assessment is a conversation or review carried out by your local authority.
It may look at:
- The needs of the person requiring care
- The role and impact on the carer
- What support may be appropriate
Carer’s assessment
As a carer, you are also entitled to an assessment.
This looks at how your role affects you and what support may be available.
How to request a care assessment
Contact your local authority
Ask to request a care assessment.
Use simple wording
You can say:
“I would like to request a care assessment.”
Search if needed
If you are unsure who to contact, search:
“Request a care assessment [your area]”
What to expect
- It may take time to arrange
- You may be contacted by a social worker or assessor
- Questions will focus on daily living and support needs
- You may need to follow up
Be clear and consistent
Be clear about what support is needed.
Keep a record of what is discussed and any next steps.
In practice
You may not be offered an assessment automatically.
It is often necessary to request one directly.