What if I already have a care package?

This page explains what happens next, how your needs will be reassessed, and what to do if your care requirements have changed.

Will my current care package continue after I leave hospital?

If you already have a home care package, personal assistant, or commissioned care provider, the hospital will:

• review your existing care plan to check whether it still meets your needs
• assess whether your condition has changed and if extra support is required
• discuss any changes with Lewisham Adult Social Care and your care provider

Your care package will not automatically end unless your needs have significantly changed. In most cases, services are paused during your hospital stay and resumed once you return home.

If you feel that your care needs have changed, raise this with the hospital team before discharge.

How will my care package be reviewed?

Once you leave hospital, your care package will be reassessed to ensure it still works for you.

This may involve:

• a home-based care review by a social worker or care coordinator
• an occupational therapy visit to assess whether equipment or adaptations are needed
• adjustments to the number, timing, or type of care visits
• liaison with your existing care provider to check they can meet any new needs

A social worker will usually contact you shortly after discharge to begin this review process.

What if I need more support?

If your condition has changed and you require additional help, your care package may be revised to include:

• more frequent or longer home care visits
• temporary night care or increased daytime support
• equipment such as walking frames, hoists, or pressure-relief mattresses
• additional health services such as district nursing or physiotherapy
• help with meals, shopping, or managing your home

Speak to Adult Social Care or your social worker if you think your care plan no longer meets your needs.

What if my care needs have decreased?

If you have recovered well and need less support:

• you can request a reassessment to reduce or end your care visits
• some support may remain in place
• if you're still building confidence at home your social worker will ensure any reduction in care is safe and appropriate

Even if you stop receiving formal care, you can contact adult social care in future if your needs increase again.

Will my care provider stay the same?

In most cases, your current care provider will continue if your care package stays the same. However:

• if you now need specialist care (eg. nursing support or dementia care), a different provider may be arranged
• if you're unhappy with your current provider, you can request a care review and explore alternatives

Contact your social worker or Adult Social Care if you want to change or discuss your care provider.

Will my payments for care change?

If your care needs change, your financial contribution may also be reviewed:

• if your care increases, a financial assessment will determine whether you need to contribute more
• if your care decreases, your payments may be reduced
• if you receive direct payments, these may be adjusted to match your new level of care

The Council's financial assessment team will guide you through this process and help you understand your options.

What if I feel my care needs are not being met?

If you’re concerned that your care package isn’t right for you:

• request a care review to check if it’s still appropriate
• ask for a reassessment if your condition or circumstances have changed
• speak to your social worker or contact adult social care for advice or to raise concerns

You have the right to be fully involved in decisions about your care and to request changes where necessary.

Need help?

Contact Lewisham Adult Social Care to discuss your care package, request a reassessment, or raise any concerns. Phone: 020 8314 7777 or email: gateway@lewisham.gov.uk.