The Care Act: almost two years to re-assess a person’s care needs

The Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman has recently found a local authority at fault for the delay in completing a re-assessment of a person’s care needs under the Care Act. The Ombudsman stated: ‘The records show there was significant drift and delay in completing Mrs X’s care needs assessment and the process took far too long. We expect councils to complete assessments in a timescale that is proportionate to the complexity of the issues and normally within 4 to 6 weeks. The extensive delay in completing the assessment of Mrs X’s care needs amounts to fault.’

The Ombudsman directed the local authority to apologise and also, to end its attempt to recover £14,062.50 paid to a direct payment account in error.

Download the report: https://www.lgo.org.uk/decisions/adult-care-services/assessment-and-care-plan/25-014-283

Edge deliver a wide range of courses on the Care Act for adult social care staff. In addition, we offer free training for families and carers on the Care Act. Details from: https://www.edgetraining.org.uk/