The Princess Royal Trust Borders Carers Centre (SCIO)

Both the Carers Act 1999 and the Health and Community Care (Scotland) Act 2002, entitle carers who are providing regular and substantial amounts of care to an assessment in their own right.  This means that carers can ask fir their own needs to be assessed in relation to the person they care for.

Who is this for?

Anyone who is caring for a friend, relative or partner.  You do not have to be living with the person you care for to qualify for a Carers Assessment. 

You can also ask for a Carers Assessment if:

• You know you are going to be caring in the future, for example, if the person you are caring for is about to leave hospital.
• You are the parent of a child with special needs.
• You are a young carer.

What is an assessment?

An assessment isa chance for you to talk with a carers support worker about the help and support you need.  It may involve one of more visits to you in your home.  Whoever does the assessment will explain what will happen in more detail.  They will be pleased to answer any questions you may have.

How do I get an assessment?

You can get a carers assessment by contacting the Borders Carers Centre.  The staff in the Carers Centre will complete a form with you to help you identify what would help you.

How much will I have to pay?

You will not have to pay for any services provided by the Carers Centre. 

There may be a small charge for some community services that are recommended for you, but this will be explained to you before the referral is made.

If it is identified that you could benefit from a Social Work Service, the Carers Centre will refer you for a further assessment.  If you are assessed by Social Work as needing a service, you will be asked to give information about your finances.  You may qualify for a free service, or you may have to pay part, or the full cost of services.  You will be told of any costs before services are arranged.

If Social Work Services assess the risk as being 'moderate' or 'low', you will not normally be eligible for community care services.  They will, however, provide information about other care and support organisations that may be able to help.

If you are not happy with the recommendations of your Social Work assessment, you may ask for a second opinion.  If you are still not satisfied, you can make a complaint.  Contact Social Work Services and ask for a copy of the comments and complaints leaflet.  The Borders Carers Centre can help you make a comment or complaint if you need assistance.

You can also contact:

Customer Carer Officer, Scoial Work Services, Council Headquarters, Newtown St Boswells, TD6 0SA

Tel: 01835 825080 or Freephone 0800 019 4490

You also have the right to complain in writing to:

The Scottish Publis Services Ombudsman, 4 Melville St, Edinburgh EH3 7NS

Tel: 0800 377 7330

www.spso.org.uk

"Making the call to The Carers Centre was the best move we made" Dan & Louise, Eyemouth