Social workers

Under community care law a Local Authority is under a duty to assess anyone who may be in need of a community care service. The assessment should be thorough and should consider the individual’s care needs, the involvement of any carers, the user’s opinions on their own needs and particular risk factors. Carers are also entitled to a separate assessment of their needs.

Most Social Services undertake an assessment and draw up a care plan if they assess the client as being in need of services.

A Local Authority also has a duty to make arrangements for the provision of services to disabled people. These can include:

• practical help in the home
• providing help in getting a radio, television, library or similar recreational facility
• lectures, outings or recreational facilities outside the home
• help with travelling and any similar activities
• any adaptations needed in the home “for greater safety, comfort or convenience”
• holidays
• meals
• a telephone or special equipment to use a telephone.

Getting their dues

Many people living with HIV are unaware of their entitlements. Most of our clients are trying to access community care services under section 21 of the National Assistance Act 1948 because they are not able-bodied and not entitled to support from the National Asylum Support Service.