Choosing an appropriate review period between 2 and 10 years

Generally, review periods range between 2 and 10 years. There are exceptions to this rule. For many individuals, setting a review period is not appropriate. Refer to the indefinite awards section for more detail.

When setting a review period, you should schedule the review to take place at the point by which the individual’s care needs that stem from their conditions or disability could be likely to have changed in a way that is likely to impact entitlement. The relevant factors to consider when determining when that would be are set out in the Relevant considerations for setting a review period section in this chapter.

When setting a review period, it is essential that you take a person-centred approach. The review period must be appropriate for the individual. It must be set at a point where the individual’s award might not be at the right level for them anymore. By reviewing their award at that point in time, we make sure that they continue to receive the support they need and are entitled to.

It is not appropriate to set shorter review periods as a default, as this method: • does not take a person-centred approach • will lead to the individual having to engage with the review process sooner and more often, potentially leading to a negative experience.

Similarly, it is not appropriate to set longer review periods as a default, as this could:

• lead to under or overpayments for the individual if they fail to report a change of circumstances (e.g. increase in needs, hospitalisation, going into a care home)
• make individuals feel like they’re not treated in a person-centred and supportive way by Social Security Scotland.

There is no specific guidance on review periods for individual conditions. This is because an individual’s condition is just one of many factors that you need to take into consideration when setting a review period. However, knowledge of the condition and its typical development can be helpful. Medical guidance should be consulted as needed for this. A to Z list of common illnesses and conditions | NHS inform ; Health A to Z - NHS (www.nhs.uk) ; Scottish health information you can trust | NHS inform

You should consider all of the available and relevant information on the individual in reaching a decision.

Review dates should be set at the point where there is a reasonable expectation that the individual’s condition may have changed in a way that their current award might not be right for them anymore.

Setting a review period can be a complex decision. If you are unclear as to how the individual’s level of need is likely to develop over time, you must request a case discussion with a Health & Social Care practitioner.