Eligibility for social care

Our criteria for assessing who is eligible for social care support.

Most people receive support through their own personal resources, their community, family and friends. We can signpost you to local facilities if you want to know more. 

In some situations this is not enough and more support may be needed. In these situations we will ask you to take part in an assessment

Eligibility criteria

To make sure that our decisions are fair, we use agreed national criteria known as eligibility criteria. This takes into account each person’s circumstances and the potential level of risk they face.

We can only provide support to those people who are at the greatest risk.

This criteria takes into account each person’s circumstances and includes:

  • neglect or physical or mental health
  • personal care
  • participation in community life
  • carers, including the ability to continue their caring role

Your needs may be in more than 1 category.

Risk levels

There are 4 risk levels.

Critical risk

These are major risks to your independent living or health and well-being which are likely to require services to be provided immediately or very soon.

Substantial risk

Significant risks to your independent living or health and well-being which are likely to require services to be provided immediately or very soon.

Moderate risk

Risks to your independent living or health and well-being.

Low risk

Issues around your quality of life but low risks to your independence and well-being.

Resources are not available to meet the needs of people assessed to be at either moderate or low risk. We can provide you with information and advice about alternative sources of support with appropriate arrangements for review.

Costs

The cost of a service varies, depending on your eligibility to receive it. In some cases services may be free. In others, a charge may be applied in line with our charging policy.

How to get a service

To help us decide what support may be available to help you and what charges might apply, you need to have an assessment.    

If you are not eligible to receive a free or subsidised service, or if you prefer to arrange a service directly without an assessment, contact us to speak with an adviser about other options.

Telephone: 030 33 33 3001