What do we mean by Eligibility Criteria?
We provide services in order to help people to live independently in their own homes as far as possible. Our eligibility criteria includes a list of the difficulties people may have and which threaten their independence. These are divided into categories of ‘critical’, ‘substantial’, ‘moderate’ and ‘low’. Generally, only people assessed as having needs that are ‘critical or substantial’ will receive a service. If you wish to see these in detail contact your local social services office for a copy of leaflet 'Eligibility Criteria' for Social Services or look on the Bath and North East Somerset website www.bathnes.gov.uk under 'Social & Housing' List of Adult Care Leaflets.
Information relating to Children' Services see Children's Eligibility Criteria
Will the needs of my carer(s) be considered?
A carer is a member of your family, a neighbour or friend who looks after you. If you have a carer, their views should be considered as part of your assessment, provided you agree to their involvement. A carer is entitled to request a separate assessment of their needs if they provide a substantial amount of care on a regular basis.
Who will get help?
We will provide or arrange a service for anyone where:
- An assessment has identified a need within the eligibility criteria.
- There is a risk of you not being able to continue living at home, or to return home.
- The service(s) you are currently receiving are no longer adequate to maintain you at home.
- Your needs must relate to a service that we are legally empowered to provide or arrange, like home help or occupational therapy.
- Priority will always be given to people in greatest need.
- We will discuss with you other ways in which your needs can be met and this will include discussing the support you receive from your family, community etc.
- If you do not qualify for a service we will do our best to give you information about getting help from elsewhere or purchasing services yourself.
Will I have to pay for services?
We will let you know if you have to pay for any services. Most NHS services are free, but there is usually a charge for services provided through Social & Housing Services.
We arrange and co-ordinate the support you need, but we do not always provide the support ourselves. Some services may be provided by the health services or independent agencies or by informal carers such as family and friends.
You may need more than one service to support you at home – this is called a package of care.
Anyone receiving a service including people entering a care home, will require a written statement called a Care Plan or Service Plan detailing the services they will receive.
You will receive copies of both the Community Care Assessment and your Service Plan.
What happens when my needs change?
We will review your needs on a regular basis and the services provided to you. As a result of a review, services may be changed.
How do I ask for an assessment?
If you need help, please telephone or visit your local Social & Housing Services office (numbers and addresses at the end of this leaflet), or ask someone to do it for you.
What happens if I am not satisfied?
If you are not happy with the services provided, or you have any other concerns, please talk to the staff who are working with you. If you are still not happy you can make a formal complaint by asking for a complaints form.
For further information, or to ask for an assessment, please contact your nearest Social & Housing Services Office:
Council Connect,
The Guildhall, Bath
Telephone: (01225) 396000
Mobile Number (text only) 07980 998948 |
Keynsham Town Hall
Keynsham
Bristol BS31 1NL
Telephone (01225) 477000 |
|
Hospital Team, Social Services
Bath & Wessex House,
Royal United Hospital.
Combe Park, Bath, BA1 3NG
Telephone (01225) 825308
Fax: (01225) 821159 |
Midsomer Norton
The Hollies
High Street
Midsomer Norton BA3 2DP
Telephone: (01225) 477000
Fax: 01225 296739 |