For Professionals Referral Guidance Referral Guidance Should I refer for a Carers Assessment? A Carer’s Assessment is a structured, exploratory conversation aimed at problem-solving unmet support needs. It is important that carers understand this and actively consent to an assessment referral. When you are thinking about what would be most helpful in meeting a carer’s needs for support, remember that: A referral to our Universal Service connects carers to a wider community of carers and many, varied opportunities for the carer to seek support at their own pace. Referring to our Universal Service is an intervention in itself and will provide many carers with access to appropriate levels of information and support to meet their needs. For more details and to make a referral >>> The Carer Advice Line provides immediate access to a Carer Advisor. This gives carers the opportunity to seek specific information, advice and/or a supportive conversation at a time which suits them. Actively signposting carers to this accessible and flexible source of expert support is an important and impactful intervention. A referral for a Carer’s Assessment is usually indicated in those situations which are listed below Refer for a Carers Assessment (as urgent) If the caring situation is at risk of breaking down OR If the caring situation is having a discernibly detrimental impact on the carer’s wellbeing and they are indicating that they are struggling to cope. Refer for a Carers Assessment (as non-urgent): If the carer has unmet support needs and the caring situation is a complex one due to one or more of the following: The carer is looking after someone in an end of life situation The carer’s own health is poor The carer has mental health issues It is a mutual caring relationship The carer has multiple caring responsibilities English is not the carer’s first language and this is an obstacle to accessing appropriate support Other communication issues have been an obstacle to accessing timely or appropriate support The overall situation is chaotic Pre-existing family conflicts are impacting on the caring situation The cared-for-person is refusing external support which would help the carer’s situation The carer promised to always care for the cared-for-person but its impacting their wellbeing The cared-for-person has an intensive need for support due to the complexity of their condition The carer has no supportive family or friendship networks The carer has memory issues – diagnosed or not There is a history of abuse in the relationship (current domestic or historic childhood abuse) If you have any queries please call us on 0114 272 8362.For more details and to make a referral for our Carer Assessment >>> Manage Cookie Preferences