Care assessment

Who to contact

Knowsley Access Team

Telephone: 0151 443 2600

We understand that as you get older, you may need extra care to help you to live independently in your home.

To help us identify your needs, we will carry out a care assessment. The assessment is a way to make sure that social care services reach people who are most in need and identify risks to your independence, both in the short and long term. 

What does the assessment involve?

The assessment is a chance for you to tell the social worker what you can do for yourself and what you are having difficulty with.  This may include:

  • Help with feeding, bathing, dressing and toileting.
  • Help getting in and out of the bath or shower.
  • Help with domestic chores.
  • Support with mental health needs.

Relatives or friends who are aware of your circumstances can be present and we will take their views into account, with your permission. We will also speak to your GP.

If a relative or friend provides regular care, we will also assess their needs to make sure they have the right support in place to continue caring for you.

We will assess your level of risk to identify what care you will need, using the fair access to care eligibility criteria. The levels of risk are as follows:

  • Low risk
  • Moderate risk
  • Substantial risk
  • Critical risk

We take into account our available resources and give priority to those identified with critical and substantial risks to their independence. We will also ensure that time limited preventative services are available to those people with moderate needs.

We will provide information, support and advice about other sources of help. If your circumstances change, you should contact us to be re-assessed.

Do I need to pay for services I receive?

After we have assessed your needs but before we arrange any services, we will carry out a financial assessment and tell you if you need to pay anything.

You may find our fairer charging policy useful.

How do I request an assessment?

Contact the Knowsley Access Team if you would like to find out more or request an assessment.