I have took over the care of my aunty due to the passing of my mum and would like to give her a better quality of life and want her to experience friendship /socialising.
She has not had any form of outside help like social care/workers with regards to her condition (learning disabilities/SMI).
Since becoming her power of attorney 12 months ago there has been zero help or support from local governing bodies giving guidance on or anything available to her which l find concerning, I was wondering if there are there any day centres or organisations that do days out activities etc for her? I have spoken to the local council to make enquiries but I only seem to be passed on to the carers organisation which only offer drop in sessions a couple of hours a week and has to be accompanied by myself which defeats the object really.
Hi Pearl. I would contact your local Adult Services department and request a Needs Assessment for your aunty and a carers assessment for yourself, which should then start the process to gain support and a more fulfilling life for your aunty.
Another forum which is really supportive with invaluable information and knowledge from other carers of those with learning disabilities is Mencap on Healthunlocked - https://healthunlocked.com/mencap
Hope all goes well and you both find the support you deserve
HELLO Pearl,
You will need a care assessment at the very start if you are going to be the carer for your aunt you will get push-back from the care services but keep pushing , a couple of things you may find helpful do not be afraid to use you MP GIVE HER /HIM THE FULL STORY you also use the local complaints service if you are serious you can request an access to care assessment this may lead to a direct payment this is a way if local care service can not provide a service you may request the assessed hours be turned into money employ your own carers to meet your aunts personal needs any outside needs you may ensure to run the service must be a separate assessment,
don a carer for years
You aunt is entitled to an assessment under the Care Act 2014, and you are entitled to a carer’s assessment under the Carers and Disabled Children Act 2000. If your aunt meets the eligibility criteria, she will be entitled to a care and support plan. This will set out the services that she needs. Your assessment will set out what you need to enable you to care for your aunt (Respite is the usual need).
Your aunt could be given a personal budget which could take the form of a direct payment. This would give you control. You would be able to choose and buy services, as long as they were covered in the care and support plan. Alternatively, your local authority could commission services directly for your aunt.
However, your local authority may charge your aunt for services. Local Authorities have charging policies and there is an expectation that disabled people will contribute to their care costs. But cross that bridge when you come to it. There are ways around it.
