Council care & support

Local Authority Care Needs Assessment

A free statutory assessment by your council of what care and support someone needs — the gateway to council-funded social care at home.

Official linksLast verified 24 April 2026

Who it helps

Any adult in England who appears to need help with care and support, regardless of savings or income.

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.

Worth knowing before you apply

Free and your legal right — you can ask regardless of savings
Separate from the Financial Assessment that decides any care-cost contribution
You can ask for a reassessment at any time if needs change
Scotland and Wales have equivalent processes with slightly different names

How to claim

Contact your local council's adult social services and ask for a Care Needs Assessment. Assessments are usually in person at home and take 1–2 hours. A written record follows within 2–4 weeks.

Independent advice

More help is out there

If your situation is complex, these UK-wide charities and government services can give free, independent advice.

Last verified 24 April 2026

← All Care Funding for NI