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Carer's
Assessments
What
happens at
the assessment?
Normally
one person, usually a social worker or other social services
staff will carry out the assessment. But a meeting may be needed
with your GP or nurse as well if a lot of care is needed. You
can ask to talk confidentially to the person carrying out the
assessment without the person you are caring for being present.
The
quality of carers' assessments varies enormously, with some
workers having a very good understanding of how to help carers,
but this is not always the case. Make sure the social worker
is
aware of as much information about your situation (see Preparing
for an assessment checklist above). You are entitled to have
a friend or advocate present at the assessment.
If
for any reason you feel certain aspects of your caring role were
not fully covered
during your assessment, you may wish to
contact the social worker and arrange a follow up visit. This
is quite common - people's lives are often complex and it can
be emotionally
difficult to talk about what can be difficult issues regarding
close relationships.
The
social worker should explore with you the kind of help and services
which will help you to look after
the person you
care
for. Social services can provide help and support directly
to you, or provide help directly to the person you are looking
after.
If
your caring situation is likely to continue for at least the
foreseeable future, the social worker should set
a date
to review
your needs and see if the help provided is working out.
This is usually at least on an annual basis and a shorter time
if, for
example, you are new to caring and your situation is complex.
Read more in the following sections:.
Do
I qualify for a carer's assessment?
What is the purpose of the assessment?
How do I get one?
Perparing for the assessment
Checklist
What happens at the assessment?
What happens afterwards?
What if I'm not satisfied?
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