Social Care Assessments
Social Care Needs Assessment
If you need to request support with looking after a child with disabilities or a long-term health condition you can request a care needs assessment to be carried out. This link from the NHS explains what a Care Needs Assessment is and what to expect - NHS Care Needs Assessment
The needs assessment is free and anyone can ask for one.
You can apply for a needs assessment to Essex Social Care Portal - request for support
Carer’s Assessment
A carer's assessment is different from a needs assessment, which is for the person you are caring for. You can have them both done at the same time if you want.
All parent/carers have a right to ask for an assessment of their needs at any time - an assessment of your needs as a carer. The aim of a carer's assessment is to give you a chance to tell social care services about the things that could make looking after your child easier for you. Please read this information on Contact’s website about what you may be eligible for and support you may be able to receive.
Essex County Council - How to Apply for a Carers Assessment
Young Carers Assessment
Young carers are entitled to a young carer's assessment. A young carer is a person under 18 who regularly provides emotional and/or practical support and assistance for a family member who is disabled, physically or mentally unwell or who misuses substances.
Under section 96 Children & Families Act 2014, the local authority conducting the assessment must pay attention to any education, training or recreation the young person has and whether the young carer works or wishes to work.
If a young carer has already had an assessment, they will only have a right to a new assessment if their needs or the needs of the person being cared for have changed, or if there has been a change in circumstances.
Essex County Council - How to apply for a Young Carers Assessment