Independent Care Needs Assessment – FAQs
What is an Independent Care Needs Assessment?
An Independent Care Needs Assessment is a personalised, professional assessment carried out by an experienced health or social care professional. It helps identify the care and support you may need to live safely and well, now and in the future.
Unlike local authority assessments, this service is provided independently by UB Healthcare and is designed to give clarity, reassurance and expert guidance.
How is this different from a local authority care needs assessment?
A local authority (council) care needs assessment is a statutory assessment you are entitled to request, regardless of your income or savings.
UB Healthcare’s Independent Care Needs Assessment:
Is optional and paid for privately
Provides an independent opinion
Does not replace a local authority assessment
Can be used alongside or ahead of local authority involvement
You can still request a council assessment at any time.
Who is this service suitable for?
This service is suitable for:
Self-funding individuals
People exploring care options for the first time
Individuals or families wanting clarity before making decisions
Those considering home care or residential care
People seeking an independent professional view
What does the assessment involve?
The assessment is conducted face-to-face at your home or another suitable location.
The assessor will look at:
Your health and wellbeing
What you can manage day to day and where you may need support
Your current living arrangements
Your cultural, religious and personal preferences
How you would like to be supported
Information from a carer or family member (if you want them involved)
With your consent, the assessor may also speak with professionals such as your GP or nurse.
How long does the assessment take?
The assessment usually takes 1-2 hours, depending on your circumstances and the complexity of your needs.
Will I receive a written report?
Yes. Within 14 days of your assessment, you will receive a detailed written report outlining:
Your assessed needs
Professional recommendations
Suggested next steps and support options
Can a family member or carer be involved?
Yes. A family member, friend, or carer can:
Be involved in the assessment (with your consent)
Help request an assessment on your behalf
Provide information to support the assessor’s understanding
If you lack mental capacity, your appointed representative can request an assessment if they believe it is in your best interests.
Does UB Healthcare carry out financial assessments (means tests)?
No. UB Healthcare does not carry out financial assessments or means tests.
If financial support is needed, your local authority is responsible for assessing eligibility and any contribution towards care costs.
What happens after the assessment if I need care?
If care is required, UB Healthcare offers free support and advice to help you:
Explore home care or residential care options
Understand what services may be appropriate
Find suitable care providers
Access NHS, social services, voluntary or community support
Our aim is to help you feel informed and supported at every step.
Does this service help with hospital discharge?
Yes. Our assessments and follow-on support can help individuals and families understand care options and support safe and timely discharge where appropriate.
How much does the assessment cost?
The cost of UB Healthcare’s in-person Independent Care Needs Assessment is:
£750
How do I book an assessment?
Booking is simple:
Book a free pre-assessment consultation via our website
A dedicated care coordinator will contact you
If appropriate, an in-person assessment will be arranged
You’ll receive your report and recommendations within 14 days
Can I still request a local authority assessment?
Yes. You are entitled to a local authority care needs assessment at any time, regardless of income or savings.
You can apply directly through your local council.
Will this assessment influence NHS or Local Authority decisions?
No — our assessment provides a clear, professional understanding of needs that you can use to prepare for statutory assessments. Only NHS or local authority teams can carry out statutory eligibility decisions.
What if I’m a carer?
If you are a carer, you are also entitled to request a carer’s assessment from your local authority to understand what support you may need.
Who carries out the assessment?
All assessments are carried out by experienced, qualified health or social care professionals with expertise in assessing complex care needs.
How do I know if this service is right for me?
If you’re unsure, we recommend booking a free pre-assessment consultation. This allows you to talk through your situation with our team and decide whether an Independent Care Needs Assessment would be helpful.