Before we can arrange services for you, you need to have an assessment of need.

A member of our staff will visit you and ask you some questions. Your family or carer can be there to help you. The assessment may also include other people, such as your GP.

In your assessment, we will ask you:

• What you think your needs are?
• What problems you are facing?
• What help you have now?
• What help you think you may need?

If the assessment shows that you meet our eligibility criteria and we are able to provide you with a service we will arrange this for you. We will also give you a written care plan which tells you exactly what services you will receive.

To determine your level of need, we use criteria called 'Fair Access to Care Services - Eligibility Criteria'.

This framework has four bands, which describe the seriousness of the risks of loss to independence if steps are not taken to address these needs.

Councils can determine which levels of needs can be met, focussing on those with greatest, immediate or long-term needs.

In Wakefield it has been agreed to meet the needs identified as critical and substantial. Those assessed as having moderate or low-level needs will be offered help through preventative services available within the community.

You can view or download our criteria under 'Related Downloads'.

Standards You Can Expect

During your assessment:

• We will consider your views and wishes.
• You can have a friend, relative or someone else to help you or speak for you, if you want.
• We will arrange for an interpreter if you do not speak English or if you use sign language.
• We will consider your carer's views.
• The people involved in your assessment will work together effectively.
• We will give you information about the services that are available and any changes involved.

After your assessment, we will tell you:

• Which services you will get, who will provide them and where and when they will be provided.
• The name of the person who is your social worker or is responsible for managing your care.

If you think you need an assessment please contact Social Care Direct by clicking on the 'Contact Social Care Direct' link.