The Purpose and Legal Basis
In Scotland, the duty to assess and provide social care support for older people is primarily rooted in the Social Work (Scotland) Act 1968. This legislation requires local councils to assess the needs of any individual who may require social care. The overarching aim is to promote independence, safety, and wellbeing, rather than simply responding to a crisis. This person-centred approach means the assessment focuses on the individual's desired outcomes and what matters most to them.
The process is designed to be comprehensive and holistic, considering not just physical health but also emotional, psychological, and social needs. It provides a structured way to determine eligibility for support services funded by the council, ensuring resources are directed towards those with the most critical needs. Every adult in Scotland is entitled to this assessment, regardless of their financial circumstances, though a subsequent financial assessment may determine how much they contribute to the cost of services.
The Assessment Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Initiating an assessment
Requesting a care assessment is the first step towards getting formal support. The process can be started by several people:
- The older person themselves.
- A family member or friend, with the individual's consent.
- A medical professional, such as a GP or district nurse.
- A hospital social work team, particularly if the person is being discharged.
To begin, contact the adult social services department of your local council. They will gather some initial details and triage the request, with more urgent cases being prioritised.
The assessment interview
An assessor, often a social worker or an occupational therapist, will contact you to arrange a visit. The assessment typically takes place in the older person's home to get the most accurate picture of their daily life. During the meeting, the assessor will have a conversation to understand their circumstances, focusing on:
- Daily living tasks: How they manage with things like washing, dressing, and eating.
- Mobility: How they get around the home and local area.
- Health and medication: Any existing health conditions and managing prescriptions.
- Social connections: Their support network of friends, family, and other carers.
- Housing: How suitable their home is for their needs and if adaptations might be beneficial.
- Wellbeing: Their emotional state, goals, and personal preferences.
It is vital to be open and honest during this discussion. Downplaying difficulties can lead to an inadequate support plan. Consider keeping a diary for a week beforehand to track all the things that are a struggle, no matter how small.
Involving carers
If an unpaid family member or friend provides care, they are also entitled to a separate Adult Carer Support Plan. This assessment, often conducted at the same time, looks at the impact the caring role has on the carer's own health and wellbeing. Their input is crucial to the elderly person's assessment, as they can provide valuable insights into the older person's needs.
What Happens After the Assessment?
Following the assessment, the council will decide on eligibility for funded support. They use nationally set criteria to evaluate the level of need, often categorising it as critical, substantial, moderate, or low. Priority is given to those with critical and substantial needs.
Developing a care plan
If eligible, a care and support plan is developed in partnership with the individual. This document outlines:
- The needs identified in the assessment.
- The specific services and support to be provided.
- How the older person's desired outcomes will be met.
Financial assessment
After the care plan is agreed upon, a financial assessment (or means test) is conducted. This determines how much the individual will contribute towards the cost of their services. Some care and support, such as personal care, is free in Scotland for those over 65, but councils may charge for other services.
Reviewing the plan
Care needs can change over time. The local council will regularly review the care plan to ensure it is still meeting the person's needs. Individuals can also request a review if their circumstances change.
Self-Directed Support (SDS): Your Choice and Control
Under the Social Care (Self-directed Support) (Scotland) Act 2013, older people have more control over how their care is provided. This is known as Self-directed Support (SDS). The assessment will lead to a discussion of these options, putting the individual at the heart of the decision-making process. The four options are compared below:
| SDS Option | Description | Level of Control |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Direct Payment | The individual receives a payment to arrange and purchase their own care and support. | High |
| 2. Council Arranges Support | The local council arranges the care and support services on the individual's behalf. | Low |
| 3. Mix of Both | A combination of a direct payment and council-arranged services. | Medium |
| 4. Individual Direction | The individual directs the council on how to spend their budget on care. | High (but council manages funds) |
For more detailed information on your rights and the Social Care (Self-directed Support) (Scotland) Act 2013, please visit Care Information Scotland.
Conclusion
A social work care assessment in Scotland is a vital, person-focused process that empowers older adults to access the support they need to maintain their independence and wellbeing. By understanding the purpose, process, and the flexibility offered by Self-directed Support, older people and their families can navigate the system effectively to secure a care plan that truly meets their needs and personal preferences.
