For more information, read the full All age continuing care policy by downloading the accessible Word document at the end of this page.
Who the policy applies to
- Adults aged 18 and over with long-term or complex health needs
- Children and young people under 18 with ongoing health needs
- Families, carers and representatives
- Anyone who may need an assessment for NHS-funded care
Why this policy is important
Some people have complex health needs that mean they need long-term care.
This policy explains how the NHS decides:
- who gets care funded by the NHS
- what type of care is provided
- how decisions are made fairly
It helps to:
- make sure people are treated the same way across Essex
- involve people and families in decisions
- use NHS funding in a fair and sustainable way
- provide safe care that meets each person’s needs
What all age continuing care means
All age continuing care brings together care for:
- adults with complex health needs
- children and young people who need ongoing support
If someone is eligible, the NHS may fund their care. This could be:
- at home
- in a care home
- in another suitable setting
How to get an assessment
Anyone can ask for an assessment. This includes:
- the person themselves
- a family member or carer
- a health or care professional
The process usually happens in two steps:
- a first check to see if a full assessment is needed
- a full assessment if needed
The full assessment looks at:
- how serious the person’s needs are
- how often care is needed
- how complex those needs are
Involving people and families
People and their families are involved throughout the process.
The NHS will:
- listen to their views and wishes
- invite them to take part in assessments
- keep them informed about decisions
Each person will have a named contact to help guide them.
Making fair decisions
Decisions are based on need, not on:
- where someone lives
- how much money they have
- what services are already available
The NHS aims to:
- make decisions in a consistent way
- use evidence from health and care professionals
- clearly explain outcomes
Types of care provided
If someone is eligible, the NHS will arrange care that:
- meets their assessed needs
- is safe and appropriate
- makes best use of NHS resources
Care may include:
- support at home
- a place in a care home
- nursing care in a care home
- a personal health budget, where people can help arrange their own care
Reviews and changes
Care is reviewed regularly to make sure it still meets the person’s needs.
This includes:
- a review within 3 months of the first decision
- regular reviews after that
If needs change:
- care may be increased, reduced or changed
- funding may stop if the person is no longer eligible
Urgent and end of life care
If someone’s health is getting worse quickly, the NHS can arrange care quickly.
This makes sure people:
- get support without delay
- receive care in a place that suits them
Choice and safety
The NHS will consider people’s preferences, such as staying at home.
However, decisions also consider:
- safety for the person and carers
- whether staff are available
- whether the care can be provided safely
In some cases, a care home may be the safest option.
Feedback, concerns and appeals
If someone disagrees with a decision, they can:
- ask for the decision to be reviewed
- make a complaint
The NHS will:
- explain how decisions were made
- offer a clear process to raise concerns
Roles and responsibilities
The NHS in Essex is responsible for:
- arranging and funding care for eligible people
- making sure assessments are completed properly
- working with local councils and care providers
Staff must:
- follow national guidance
- make fair, evidence-based decisions
- involve people and families
Policy review
This policy was approved on 1 April 2026 and is due for review in April 2028.
For full details, download the accessible Word version of the policy below.