The full picture
Under the Care Act 2014, every local authority in England has a legal duty to assess the care needs of any adult who appears to need help — regardless of income or savings. A Care Needs Assessment is free and looks at everything from help with washing and dressing to aids and adaptations, day centres, respite, and homecare. It's separate from the Financial Assessment that decides how much (if anything) the council will pay. Many families don't know this service exists; asking for an assessment is your right and does not commit you to accepting any particular service.