The South London Jewish Community Services web site is a collaboration between
Totally Communications Web Designers
It is possible to make a direct approach to many of the organisations listed later in this guide. They may be able to offer a service, or at least information. However, generally speaking it is important to ensure that an individual/family in need gets a proper assessment first.
For most categories of people in need, whether adults or children, the central route of assessment is through the Social Services Department of the local authority (Council), and these departments where appropriate work very closely together with the Primary Care Trusts (the PCT's part of the NHS). Basically, these two types of agency cover almost every type of care and support other than in-patient, hospital services. Increasingly, Social Services and the PCT's aim to work as one unified team. Between them, they employ a vast range of professionals who have key responsibilities under the law to identify the needs of different types of people requiring help and support. These groups include: frail older people, children at risk, individuals with mental health problems, the homeless, people with disabilities, those who have HIV, alcohol, or drug dependency problems. Local authorities' responsibilities also include Housing Departments that find accommodation for homeless people and assess people's entitlement to a range of specialist sheltered accommodation for individuals with "special needs".
Importantly, there are certain situations in which it is essential to approach the local authority or an individual's GP due to particularly urgent issues which involve a dimension of risk. The most important of these relate to children at risk of harm such as neglect or abuse, vulnerable elderly people and people with acute mental health problems who may pose a risk to themselves or others.
Finally, if what is being looked for is financial support in the shape of benefits or allowances, then the most important role is played by the Benefits Agency and the Department for Work and Pensions, which is part of Central Government. They are responsible for delivering support and advice to people of working age, employers, pensioners, families and children and disabled people.
Getting Help: providers of help, care and information
Once an assessment has been carried out, the professional in question (often termed a "care manager" rather than a social worker) should secure the best types of care and support to meet the identified needs of the individual. If you are looking after or otherwise supporting a person in this situation- especially if you are a partner or relative- you can make a significant contribution by highlighting the importance of obtaining specialist Jewish support and care services.
Clearly, GPs can play a key role in helping people to access numerous services. If you are looking for help on your own behalf, then you should see what your GP can do; if you are trying to assist someone else, find out who is their GP. If someone isn't registered with a GP, or you need to find out more about GP services, contact the local PCT, or PCA.
Jewish support services are provided by a vast range of voluntary organisations. This Guide concentrates on certain key "general" organisations which target all people belonging to a certain section of the population- and it also gives details of Jewish community service providers (indicated in bold italic). An *asterisk means that the organisation specifically provides services targeted at Jewish communities in South London.
There are some services which can be provided without any preceding assessment. However, should an assessment be required, the organisation should be able to explain precisely how to go about obtaining it.
The South London Jewish Community Services web site is a collaboration between
Totally Communications Web Designers