For 2003/04 to 2007/8, the indicator is in two parts: 1) Of new clients over the age of 65 for whom the assessment process was started, the number for whom length of time from first contact to start of assessment was less than or equal to 48 hours (2 calendar days). This time includes weekends and bank holidays. For clients in hospital, first contact is defined as when the hospital informs Social Services formally that the person will imminently be medically fit for discharge. 2) Of new older clients whose assessments were completed in the year, the percentage for whom length of time from first contact to completion of assessment was less than or equal to 4 weeks (28 calendar days). An ‘assessment’ is defined as the first assessment for a new client. All subsequent assessments which include a reassessment are defined as a review. The definition was clarified in 2005-06, detailing what contact involves and what can happen in the event of the client being unable to speak for themselves. For 2008/09, only data relating to the second part is available.
The National Service Framework for Older People sets out a commitment to deliver timely access to high quality services that meets people’s needs. Long waiting times can impact badly in the health of older people and there are wide social inequalities in the health of older people. Users and carers should expect practical help and other support to arrive in a timely fashion soon after their problems have been referred to Social Services. Long delays in delivering help can reflect badly on the arrangements which Social Services Departments have in place for receiving referrals, undertaking assessments, completing care plans and arranging care packages.
This indicator has been discontinued and so there will be no further updates.
Legacy unique identifier: P01056