Advice and help for carers

Carer Support procedure

• What qualifies a carer for support?

A carer qualifies for support if; you are the main or only carer, you have regular contact with the person, the cared for person would be at risk if you were unable to provide support, you require support to continue in your caring role 

• How do I apply for the service?

To apply for an assessment contact any of the following:

Livingston Social Work Centre 01506 777777

Bathgate Social Work Centre 01506 776700

Broxburn Social Work Centre 01506 775666 

• What is a carer's assessment?

We can visit you to discuss what your needs and wishes are and how we can help you with them. The assessment may take just one visit or it may take some time to complete. In most cases an assessment must be carried out before any service or support is recommended.

The purpose of the assessment is to look at the support you provide and determine your needs as a carer. It takes into account all your own commitments - family, work, study, housing, social life, leisure activities, your age, health, and any support already in place. 

• What happens next?

Practical support available includes:

- Information about housing, equipment and adaptations
- The home safety service which offers technology like flood/heat detectors, wandering devices, home security and careline support 
- Welfare benefits advice
- Respite care and short breaks from caring
- Who to contact in an emergency
- Local carer's support centres
- Help with the support you provide
- How to arrange a needs assessment for the person you are supporting.

• How much does it cost?

There are no charges for information and assessments. Depending on your individual circumstances, you may be asked to help pay for some expensive services or equipment (such as a ground floor bathroom extension to a house that you own). It is your choice whether to use these services or not, and who should provide you with the service. 
 

• What are our Service standards?

We aim to ensure that:

- The assessment takes place when and where it suits you
- You can have a male or female assessor
- If you prefer, the person you care for can be present
- You can have a friend or advocate with you
- Someone to translate or sign for you can be arranged
- We will visit you within 6 weeks from the date you first contacted us, or 7 days if high priority
- You will be given a copy of the written assessment
- With your permission, we will share information with other agencies like housing and health to ensure you get all the help you need
- We will arrange for any equipment or adaptations you need
- You can ask for a new assessment at any time if your needs change