Assessment for care and support in England

What care and support is available for people affected by dementia in England?

Many people with dementia and their carers will need care and support as the condition progresses. Whether from a carer, family, friends or professionals, all care should help people with dementia and those supporting them to live well.

The types of care put in place will be different for everyone, because everyone’s needs are different. With the right information and support, you can understand your options and make the right decisions for yourself and the person you care for.

This information is for people living in England, as assessment for care and support is different in Wales and Northern Ireland. Please see our information for Wales and Northern Ireland. 

What is an assessment for care?

An assessment for care tells you what needs the person has, and what needs you may have as a carer. It also shows what care and support will meet these needs.

Some people with dementia and their carers have their care and support provided and paid for by the local authority (local council). For some people the local authority may only pay some money towards their care and support. Others may have to pay for their care and support themselves. You have to meet certain criteria (conditions) to have your needs met by the local authority.

If you wish to get care and support paid for by the local authority you must have either:

• care needs assessment and financial assessment – for a person with dementia, or
• carer’s assessment and financial assessment – for a carer.

Asking for information and advice as soon as possible will help you to plan ahead for care and support. This will help you and the person you care for to have more time to explore options and find out what is available locally. It will also help with planning for emergencies or preparing for times when you may not be able to care for them.