The Checklist is the first step in the CHC process. It’s a screening tool used to decide if a full assessment is needed. Many cases fail here, but we help you prepare.

CHC is for people with significant healthcare needs, whereas local authority funding is typically for social care needs and may involve a means test.

Someone such as a nurse or social worker will complete the Department of Health and Social Care’s NHS Checklist tool to screen the individual’s needs, determining whether a full eligibility assessment is needed. If it is, then a multi-disciplinary team (MDT), best comprising a combination of health and social care professionals, will complete the Decision Support Tool (DST) to obtain further information about the individual’s needs, before making a recommendation to the Integrated Care Board about their eligibility.

You’ll usually need the Decision Support Tool (DST), outcome letter, and any meeting notes or reports. You may also wish to obtain clinical or witness evidence. Here at Winston Solicitors, we will guide you on what’s needed at every stage.

Charities can provide free information, and for more direct help, organisations. Or law firms, such as Winston Solicitors, can help you.

Local Dispute Resolution happens with your local NHS team. If that doesn’t resolve things, you can ask NHS England to set up an Independent Review Panel.

The earlier the better. Getting advice right after the ineligibility decision can improve your chances and reduce delays. But we can help at any stage.

Anyone who has care needs which go beyond what a local authority social services department can provide may be eligible for CHC. Assessors will apply the “Primary Health Need” test to help determine this.

CHC Solicitors are fully regulated professionals with legal expertise, insurance, and a duty to act in your best interests. Unlike unregulated claims companies, we’re accountable to the Solicitors Regulation Authority and can provide tailored legal advice, strategic representation, and transparent pricing. If you only need help with a specific part of the process, we’ll give you a bespoke estimate. No hidden fees and no one-size-fits-all approach.