What a needs assessment is
A needs assessment is carried out by your local council to understand what help you need with everyday life, and whether you may be eligible for council-funded support.
Who can ask for one
Anyone can ask their local council for a needs assessment, regardless of how much money or savings they have. Carers can also ask for their own separate carer's assessment.
What happens during the assessment
A professional will usually talk with you (and anyone you'd like involved) about your daily routine, your home, your health and what matters to you, to understand the support that would help.
What happens next
If the council decides you have eligible needs, they will discuss how those needs could be met, and carry out a financial assessment to work out what you may need to contribute.
Local contacts
If you live in Wolverhampton, Birmingham or Walsall, your council's adult social care team can tell you how to request an assessment in your area.
Common questions
Is a needs assessment free?
Yes, the assessment itself is free, regardless of your income or savings.
How long does it take?
This varies by council and depends on how urgent the situation is. Ask your local council for their current timescales.
Official sources & further reading
Related topics
Financial assessments (means-testing)
How councils work out what you may need to contribute towards your care.
Personal budgets
An amount identified by the council to meet your eligible care needs, and the ways you can use it.
Questions to ask about funding
Helpful questions to ask your council, the NHS or a care provider about paying for care.