What is a Social Care Assessment?

A Social Care Assessment, also known as a “What Matters” conversation, is a discussion with a social work team member to understand your strengths and identify areas where you may need support. Each assessment is tailored to you and typically covers:

• Your health and daily challenges
• Cultural, religious background, and support network
• Living arrangements
• Personal goals and risks of not achieving them
• Barriers to your goals and ways to overcome them
• Input from your carer, if you have one and choose to include them

The assessor will meet with you—usually face to face, but online or phone options are available—to learn how you manage everyday tasks. With your consent, they may also speak to professionals like your GP or nurse to get a full picture of your care needs. The aim is to understand what support you need now and in the future.

Who can get a Social Care Assessment?

If you live in Flintshire, or are currently in Flintshire and don’t normally live anywhere else, we have a duty to assess your needs if:

• You may need care and support, or
• You’re a carer who may need support.

Having a right to an assessment doesn’t always mean you’ll receive services from the council. The assessment helps us understand your situation and what support might be available.

Your Care and Support Plan

After your Social Care Assessment, if you're found to have eligible care needs, a personalised Care and Support Plan will be created with your input. This plan outlines the support you need and how it will be provided, helping ensure you receive the right care.

Your plan will include:

• Your care needs and goals
• What support will be provided and by whom
• Advice on reducing or preventing future needs
• The cost of your care and your personal budget
• Any agreed direct payments

Support may include home adaptations, help from carers, personal alarms, rehabilitation services, social activities at day centres, or a place in a care home. You’ll receive a copy of your plan, which is tailored to your individual circumstances.

It is important to remember that every assessment and care plan is tailored to your individual needs. Even if your situation seems similar to someone else's, the support you receive may be different — because what works best for you might not be the same as what works for someone else.