Social systems theory …show more content…
This model, informed by the above theory, will help make a holistic assessment of Anne’s social situation creating sufficient trust for full participation and open negotiations to take place (Coulshed & Orme, 2012). While this model recognises the social worker as having skills and expertise it views assessment as a negotiation, in this instance between Anne and the social worker but also broadens it to the children (Coulshed & Orme, 2012). Rather than using the questioning model to assess Anne which in itself is disempowering, oppressive, and does not promote participation the social worker will use the exchange model which adheres to the profession’s ethics and values of anti-oppression and anti-discrimination. In addition, the exchange model becomes limited though in its effectiveness if the professional’s communication, observation, reflection, and evaluation (CORE) skills are less than convincing (Coulshed & Orme, …show more content…
Firstly, the NHSCCA 1990 shifted the paradigm of assessment from resource-led to needs-led in adult services (Coulshed & Orme, 2012). This is the legal framework by which Anne’s assessment and service provision will be implimented. However, the social worker will realise that Anne’s situation has competing needs with that of her children who have taken on some of her roles and possibly caring for her. Children’s welfare is paramount according to Children Act 1989 and 2004 and takes precedence in any assessment if there is risk of serious harm but is not the case in this case study. Another law is The Community Care (Direct Payments) Act 1996 which empowers the LA to make direct payments to Anne for the assessed needs so she can make her own arrangements for services (Brayne & Carr,2013). However, Anne will have to meet the Fair Access to Care Services (FACS) criteria which is one of the policy drivers in this climate of austerity measures. Each LA decides where on the banding it intervenes. The four banding on eligibility are; low, moderate, substantial, and critical. Anne and her children will fall under substantial as ‘the majority of social support systems and relationships cannot or will not be sustained’ (Brayne & Carr,2013 p 456). According to Collingwood et al (2008), assessment is an active and on-going process which usually brings positive change. The social worker in