Getting support
Recognizing That Help Is Needed​
Common signs a relative may need support:Struggling with washing, dressing, or toileting. Forgetting meals or medication Falls, confusion, anxiety, or low mood Home becoming unsafe or neglected Family carer is exhausted or overwhelmed If any of these are happening, it’s appropriate to ask for help.
First Step: Request a Care Needs Assessment (FREE) Who does this:Your local council (Adult Social Care)
How to request it:Phone the council’s Adult Social Care team Or complete the request on the council website.
Anyone can request it: the person, a relative, GP, or carer .
What happens:A social worker assesses daily needs, Looks at safety, independence, health, and well being Can be done at home or by phone.
This assessment is free and does not commit you to anything
At the Same Time:Ask for a Financial Assessment This determines who pays for care. If savings are:Under £14,250 → Council usually funds care£14,250–£23,250 → Council part-funds care Over £23,250 → Person usually self-funds The home is not counted if:A spouse lives there A dependent or disabled relative lives there
What Care Can Be Put in Place?
Based on the assessment support may include:Care at Home Personal care (washing, dressing, toileting)Meal preparation Medication prompts Companionship and outings Typical visits:30 mins / 45 mins / 1 hour Once a day or multiple visits, Equipment & Adaptations Grab rails, shower seats Bed rails, commodes Pendant alarm / lifeline Often provided free or low cost.
Choosing How Care Is Managed,You usually get two options:Option A: Council-Arranged CareCouncil organises carers: Less admin, Less choice over who attends Option B: Direct Payments Council gives you the moneyYou choose the carer or agency,More control and flexibility, Many families prefer this once confident.
If a Family Member Is Caring Ask for a Carer’s Assessment (separate to the care assessment).This can provide:Respite care Support groups Training Help with stress and burnout Carers often miss out because they don’t ask.
Extra Financial Help to Check Your relative may be entitled to:Attendance Allowance (65+)£72.65 or £108.55 per week (2025 rates approx)Not means-tested Does not affect savings💳 Other support:Pension Credit Council Tax Reduction Disabled Facilities Grant Attendance Allowance is key for paying toward care.
If Things Are Urgent or Unsafe if there is:Immediate risk Severe neglect Carer breakdown Contact Adult Social Care and say:“This is urgent and there are safeguarding concerns.”They must respond faster.
If Family Relationships Are tense tips:Keep discussions focused on needs, not blame Involve professionals to reduce conflict
Remember: accepting help is not failure You’re doing the right thing by stepping in.
Optional: Private Care (Short or Long Term) If self-funding or topping up: Start small (e.g. 2–3 visits/week)This can reduce family pressure immediately.
Final reassurance Needing care is a life stage, not a personal failing.
Early support often:Prevents crisis, Keeps people at home longer,Protects family relationships
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