Advocate for adult assessment

Assessments
1

Hi,

I am an unpaid carer for my brother who is head injured, up until now we have had no assistance and I do everything for him myself. I’m at the stage where I’ve got health problems myself, and am no longer physically or mentally able to look after him so I have requested an assessment for him so he can get a care package. I want this to be in place as he has no one else and I need to make sure he will be looked after when I am gone.

I’m very intimidated by the thought of going into these/meetings and assessments and I’m worried I won’t be able to get what my brother needs. Can we get an advocate to come in with us who knows about SDS and can ensure we get everything we need from the process? Thanks.

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Morning @Brookhaven87 you can find independent advocacy services in your area here: Find an advocate - Scottish Independent Advocacy Alliance Depending on where you live there’s likely to be an independent support organisation or carers centre that might be able to help too. You can use the SDSS find help tool here: Find Help - Self Directed Support Scotland Or let the forum know which local authority area you live in and we might be able to point you in the right direction.

1 Like
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How is your brother with making decisions? Does he make all his own decision for himself? Does he have an attorney or even guardian?

EDIT: I only ask because it may affect his rights to advocacy and your role, but as @Iain says if you contact an advocacy service they’ll know better than I do probably.

4

Hi
It would be very helpful to have a Person Centred Plan (PCP) in place in preparation for any future meetings with Social Work. This will support your discussions and ensure your brother’s needs are clearly outlined.

A PCP is a key part of Self Directed Support. An independent organisation in your area can help you to create one. Here is the link to Find Help, where you can identify who can support you with this in your local area Get help with Self-directed Support - Self Directed Support Scotland.

A PCP focuses on the individual’s strengths, preferences, goals, and support needs. It is developed with the person and includes input from those who know them well. This plan helps shape the kind of support they receive and ensures it reflects their personal choices and aspirations.

In addition, during the assessment process, it is important to have a Care Plan for yourself as an unpaid carer. Caring full-time for someone can be emotionally and physically demanding. Your health and well-being are vital, not only for your own quality of life but also for your continued ability to care for your brother in the long term. A carer’s care plan addresses your own needs, including rest, emotional support, healthcare, and respite, and ensures that your role is supported appropriately.
Consider raising both plans with Social Work at the earliest opportunity so they can be formally recognised and included in future planning