What is a Carer’s Assessment?
A Carer’s Assessment gives you an opportunity to talk to a staff Trust member about your caring situation.
How to get a Carer’s Assessment
If a Trust member of staff is organising support for the person you care for, you can request a Carer’s Assessment meeting through them.
Alternatively, you can contact the Carers Support Service and they will help you access a Carer’s Assessment.
A Carer’s Assessment meeting gives you an opportunity to talk to a Trust member of staff about your caring situation. You can discuss:
- the care and support you provide
- how caring affects your physical and emotional wellbeing
- what you find difficult
- any concerns you have about the future
- what support you may need to continue caring
How to prepare for your Carer’s Assessment Meeting
You should keep a diary for a few weeks before your meeting. Take note of what you do to help the person you care for and list any concerns you have.
You may wish to arrange the meeting so the person you care for is not there. Some carers can talk more freely in that situation.
You should be open and honest during your carer’s meeting. You can share your feelings and difficulties. The staff member is there to listen and help you.
You will later be given a copy of the agreed support plan. Please ask for a copy if it is not offered.
How will a Carer’s Assessment help me?
Talking to a staff member can help you think more clearly about your caring role. It may also help you get more practical help and support. This help may be provided by us or other organisations.
Available help may include:
- information, advice and emotional support
- contact with carer support groups
- support with practical tasks
- breaks from caring
- educational courses
- complementary therapies
- relaxation days for carers
Reviewing your Carer’s Assessment
Your Carer’s Assessment will be reviewed once a year to see if it is meeting your needs. You can ask for your plan to be reviewed at any time, especially if the demands of your caring role change.
Hear from carers on the help and support provided by Carer’s Assessment.