Before homecare begins, a care assessment is carried out to understand what kind of support is needed and how it should be delivered. If you have never been through this process before, you may be wondering what it involves and what to expect. Here is a straightforward guide.
What Is a Care Assessment?
A care assessment (sometimes called a needs assessment or home assessment) is a structured conversation between a care coordinator and the person who needs support — and often their family too. Its purpose is to understand the person's current situation, what help they need, and how that help should be provided. At Briars Homecare, our assessments are free, carried out at home, and completely without obligation.
What Gets Covered?
A typical assessment covers: daily routine and what the person can and cannot currently manage independently; health conditions, medications and any clinical needs; personal preferences — how they like things done, what products they prefer, what matters to them; the layout and accessibility of the home; family involvement and emergency contacts; and any concerns the person or their family has. The assessment is not a test. There are no right or wrong answers — it is simply about understanding the whole person.
Who Carries It Out?
At Briars Homecare, assessments are carried out by an experienced senior care coordinator. They are trained to ask the right questions sensitively and to listen carefully. Many clients and families tell us the assessment itself felt reassuring — a sign that someone genuinely cares about getting things right.
What Happens Afterwards?
After the assessment, we create a personalised care plan that sets out exactly what will happen during each visit. You will receive a copy and have the opportunity to review it before care starts. The care plan is a living document — it is updated whenever circumstances change.
Council-Funded Assessments
If you are seeking care funded by Lancashire County Council or Blackpool Council, a separate social care assessment will be arranged by the local authority. We are an approved provider with both councils and can help guide you through that process. Call us on (01253) 851600 to find out more.