If you think you need social care support you have the right to ask us to assess your needs. The assessment focuses on the issues that are important to you and helps you to think about what your strengths are.

• Your wellbeing - what is important to you in your daily life;
• Any physical illness or mental health issues;
• Food and drink - your diet and preparing meals;
• Personal care - hygiene and being appropriately clothed;
• Looking after your home;
• Getting around your home safely;
• Developing and maintaining family or other personal relationships;
• Accessing and engaging in work, training, education or volunteering;
• Getting out and about - using community services, including public transport and recreational facilities; and
• Carrying out any caring responsibilities.

You may need to make a financial contribution towards the support you need. After we receive your self-assessment a trained financial assessor will contact you to arrange a financial assessment (called a means test). This will work out if you need to contribute towards the cost of your care, and whether we will pay for all or some of your care costs. The amount we may ask you to pay will depend on your income and any savings you may have.

Visit the paying for your care page for more information on financial assessments.

You can request an assessment from us by calling 01803 219700.