Why We Ask for Information (And Why It Matters)

When you contact Disability Assist for support or refer someone to us, we will ask a number of questions as part of our sign‑up process.  We realise that forms are not the most interesting part of the process but the information you provide plays a big role in how quickly and effectively we can support you.

Here is what you need to know:

The Short Version

✔ We ask for information because our funders require it

✔ It helps us deliver the right support, faster

✔ Some questions are optional and you can opt out

✔ This is standard procedure for everyone

✔ Your data is stored securely and reported anonymously

Why We Ask These Questions

We are funded by Kent County Council (KCC) to deliver wellbeing services to adults across Kent who have a physical disability or disabling long-term health condition. As part of that funding, we must collect certain information and report on who we support and the difference our services make.

This helps to show the impact of our work and make sure that our services reach people from all sorts of backgrounds.  It also helps us to identify any gaps in support so that we can design our future services.  And, most importantly, it helps us to secure ongoing funding so we can keep helping disabled people.

The important part to remember is that all reporting is anonymised so it is not possible to identify anyone.

What We Will Ask For

You can expect questions about:

• Your name, address, and contact details

• Information that helps us understand your circumstances

• Details needed to assess eligibility and provide appropriate support

• Demographic details (such as gender, ethnicity, disability)

  
  

These questions are part of our standard process for everyone who uses our service.  Some information is essential.  However, certain questions are optional so if you are unsure or uncomfortable answering something, just let us know.  Our Information Officers will explain what can be skipped and why we are asking the question.

As part of the sign‑up process, you will also be asked whether you would like to receive our monthly e‑newsletter. We recommend providing an email address if you can, as it is a great way to stay informed of our latest news.

A Note for Professionals Referring Clients

We value the referrals we receive, however, incomplete or inaccurate referral forms are one of the biggest causes of delays. Incorrect contact details or missing information can prevent us from progressing a case quickly.

To help us help your client as efficiently as possible, please:

• Complete all relevant sections

• Provide accurate, current contact information

• Include as much helpful background detail as possible

• Double-check key information before submitting

The more complete and accurate the information we receive, the faster we can move forward to deliver the right support. Attention to detail genuinely makes a difference to the outcomes for the people you refer to us.

How We Protect Your Information

We fully comply with GDPR and our staff complete training regularly. Your information is stored securely, accessed only by our staff and used solely for service delivery, reporting, and improvement.  We never share identifiable information without consent unless legally required.

FAQs

Why do you ask so many questions?

We ask a range of questions so that we can understand your situation, assess eligibility, provide appropriate support, and meet our contractual reporting requirements to funders. This is standard procedure for everyone who uses our service.

Do I have to answer every question?

No. While some information is essential, you can opt out of answering certain questions if you prefer. Our Information Officers will explain which questions are optional and can talk through any concerns.

Who will see my information?

Your information is only accessed by trained staff who need it to deliver our services, carry out reporting, and improve what we offer. All reporting to funders is anonymised.

Will my information affect the support I receive?

No. Your personal or demographic information will never be used to judge or discriminate. We aim to provide the same high‑quality service to everyone who meets our eligibility criteria.

We hope this helps explain why we ask certain questions and how your information supports both your individual journey and our wider work as a charity. By sharing accurate information, you are helping us continue to provide vital services to people with physical disabilities across Kent.