AQW 43747/22-27
Mrs Michelle Guy
Alliance Party
Lagan Valley
Tabled Date: 13/04/2026
Answered On Date: 21/04/2026
Priority Written: No
Question:
To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps being taken to identify and support families who may be struggling with caring responsibilities for adults with complex needs.
Answer:
The Department of Health recognises the important role families play in caring for adults with complex needs and is committed to ensuring that carers are appropriately identified and supported. Health and Social Care Trusts have a statutory responsibility to assess any adult who appears to require care or support. Adults or their families may request an assessment at any stage, either directly through their local Trust or via referral from a GP, hospital or community professional. Assessments are provided free of charge and consider functional ability, health and safety, risks and support needs, as well as the views of the adult and their support network. Planning and review of care arrangements are expected to take place at key intervals, including transition from children’s services, following hospital discharge, or where needs change, to help identify emerging pressures on families at an early stage. Carers can also request a carer’s assessment under the Carers and Direct Payments Act (Northern Ireland) 2002. This assessment considers the impact of caring on the individual, their ability to continue caring safely and the support required, including respite, practical assistance and/or emotional support. Where assessment of need indicates that additional support is required, Trusts determine eligibility for packages of care using regionally agreed criteria, with a focus on supporting individuals to remain living at home where possible. For those whose needs can no longer be met in the community, residential care may also be considered following assessment where appropriate.
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