care needs assesment

Jenwren

Hi

I'm just wondering if anyone can give some advice/reassurance/infomation about care needs assesments via the local council.

As my health has been getting worse over the past few years (I have disabilities and health conditions) my brother who has gradually become my unoffical carer without either of us realising until recently (he doesn't live with me, lives about 30 mins from me, I live by myself), said I need to get a care needs assesment as it gives me legal protection. I'm having to move due to my mum's house beign sold for probate (which has been my home) and my situation is complicated and messy due to a whole range of things. He's said it's non negtioable for me to get one.

He's done care assesments for part of his old job, and he's not the first who's told me I should get one. I get the higher tiers of ESA/UC and PIP and am in the support groups. I'm just really scared about having an assessment, I'm scared they'll say I'm not disabled enough because I can walk around house etc (I do have mobility issues and can't stand or walk far) without aids (I have been putting off getting some aids that would help me).

I just keep thinking of being interogated, or having to 'prove' my disabilities/health issues (which are on my GP records). I'm probably being really silly or stupid in part due to my ADHD catastrophising everything and I've always resisted having one. Could anyone who's been through a care needs assesment give me some info about it, what it involved, how long it took, was it good/bad? I'm just super scared of any assesments under this government with PIP reform etc. Also I do NOT like talking about my disabilities/health and how much they actually impact my daily life. I like to act like I can cope, but when my brother points out the stuff he has to help with around the house because I can't/remind me to do etc…

Any advice/suggestions or reassurance? Am I being stupid for being so scared of getting one? Will it actually help?

Ostia

Hello Jenwren

I had an assessment some years ago. I know it is daunting, but it was fine, the social worker was really kind. They are not there to catch you out or get involved with the DWP.

It is best that you swallow any pride or discomfort and tell them everything that you need some support with. It is harder to go back and appeal if you have not shared something at the time. Could you make a list, with the help of your brother?

Perhaps you could have someone with you if you feel it would make a social services visit easier for you.

All the best, A