Assessment is about critically analysing information from a range of sources to determine need, eligibility and risk. Ideally, assessments involve a collaborative process, ensuring people participate and take as much control as possible in identifying their own needs. From the social work point of view, all professional judgements should be balanced and substantiated. Moreover, a perspective that sees the ‘whole system’ and the interconnected nature of the parts is critical to getting a sense of what is going on.