Waiting for a care assessment

Find out what happens while waiting for a care assessment and what support is available.

This page is for you if you:

  • Are waiting for an assessment of your social care needs or a carer’s assessment
  • Are waiting for adult social care services to begin following an assessment
  • Are currently receiving care and support and your needs have changed
  • Have experienced a change in your physical or mental health and want to explore local support options.

Preparing for your assessment

Waiting for a needs assessment

If you’re waiting for a needs assessment, you can get ready by thinking about:

  • What matters most to you in daily life?
  • What health conditions do you have and how do they affect you?
  • What can you do for yourself?
  • Who supports you – friends, family, neighbours – and how?
  • How often do you need help?
  • What would you like to be different or better?
  • What is stopping you from getting there?
  • What living arrangements would help you feel more independent and well?

Waiting for a carer’s assessment

If you’re waiting for a carer’s assessment, you can get ready by thinking about:

  • What tasks do you help the person you care for with?
  • How many hours a week do you provide care?
  • Do you provide care during the day, night, or both?
  • Are there health or behavioural challenges that are difficult to manage?
  • How does your caring role affect your own wellbeing and family life?
  • Do you have any health conditions, and are they made worse by your caring role?
  • Do you work? If so, how many hours a week?
  • What would make balancing work and caring easier ?
  • What would you most like to change about your situation?

You can complete a carer’s self-assessment online if you prefer to do so before speaking to member of staff.

Waiting for a mental health assessment

  • The A2i team aims to offer an initial appointment within four to six weeks of your referral.
  • Your appointment will involve a conversation about your mental health and wellbeing. It usually lasts 45 to 60 minutes, depending on what’s discussed.
  • You’ll be asked questions to help the team understand your needs and decide on the right support or treatment options.

You can find more details about what to expect from your assessment on the Health and Care Portsmouth website.

Support while you wait

While you’re waiting for adult social care services to begin, there are other ways to access help, stay well, and connect with your community.

Advice on keeping well

Local services and support

Community and social connection

HIVE Portsmouth

  • The HIVE operates a Community Helpdesk located on the ground floor of the Central Library in the Guildhall square. The website offers an online directory of local groups and services.
  • The Helpdesk has a helpline that you can call but is also available for face-to-face drop-in from 9.30 am - 4 pm, Monday- Friday.
  • Phone: 023 9400 7124
  • Email: info@hiveportsmouth.org.uk
  • Visit the HIVE Portsmouth website.

Community Connectors

Social activities and groups for adults

Support for carers and older adults

Portsmouth Carers Centre

Young carers support

Age UK

Mental health

Portsmouth Mental Health Hub

Neurodiversity

Room One

  • A space run by autistic people for autistic and neurodivergent adults (18+) in PO1 -PO6.
  • Address: Spithead Resource Centre, 55 Montgomerie Road, Southsea, PO5 1EB
  • Phone: 07553 607473
  • Email: RoomOne@portsmouthcc.gov.uk

Learning disabilities

Integrated Learning Disability Service (ILDS)

  • Supports adults aged 18+ with learning disabilities.
  • Phone: 0300 123 4019

Gig Buddies - Aldingbourne Trust

Additional help you may need

While waiting for your assessment, you may also need support with:

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