Many people living with a long-term health problem such as HIV lead active lives and need little support, but sometimes it can be hard to cope.
If you are finding it difficult to manage at home you might benefit from some help. At these times community care services may be available to you.
Community care services include the provision of accommodation and welfare services for disabled people, the promotion of the welfare of old people, and aftercare services for some people who need to be discharged from hospital. They might include help in your home for things that you have trouble doing because of your condition, like cleaning or shopping.
How to ask for care
If you feel this might be the kind of help you need, then you need to ask for a community care assessment from the adult disabilities team of your local social services. If a local authority thinks that you might have a need for community care they'll carry out an assessment. You can find details of your local authority by using Up My Street.
Once the assessment is completed, the local authority must then decide whether your assessed needs entitle you to community care and you'll be notified of the decision. If you're not happy with this you should call THT Direct so that we can advise you and give you details of a community care specialist adviser or solicitor.
Community support volunteers
We can also provide help and support to people living with HIV and Hepatitis C by introducing you to a community support volunteer. While a community support volunteer is not a carer, they can help you access care services and give you support.