The backwards test must be met before the entitlement to CDP can begin.

The date an individual satisfies the backwards test might differ for the care and the mobility component.

The case manager may need supporting information to determine that the backwards test has been met and the forwards test is likely to be met. This information should confirm that the individual is likely to meet the criteria of entitlement during both of the relevant period.

For more information on the date of entitlement please refer to the Applying for CDP chapter.

Different rules apply if the individual is staying in alternative accommodation.

You can find more information on this in the Effect of Time Spent in Care Homes and Residential Educational Establishments and the Legal Detention chapters.

Case managers use weeks to calculate the backwards test and forwards test.

Sometimes, individuals can only give the month and year when the required level of needs began. In these cases, the case manager should ask the individual to indicate a week in which the needs first arose. The case manager should then set the first day of the week as the day the needs began. The week runs from Monday to Sunday. This includes a part week.

Some individuals might only be able to give the week when the required level of needs began. In these cases, the case manager should assume that the needs began on the first day of the week in calculating the backwards test. The week runs from Monday to Sunday. This includes a part week.

Sometimes, an individual gives the last week of the month for when the required level of needs began. In these cases, it is assumed that the level of needs began on the first day of the final week of the month.