Isobel slept until 8.40am. Soon after breakfast Iona arrived, then Sarah Parker called as arranged. Completing the assessment took the best part of two and a half hours. Euan joined us for the latter part of the assessment. For many of the categories Isobel's needs were considered severe, for others moderate while a few did not apply. It came to light that there had been a day on which Isobel used violence at the hospice; kicking, punching and threatening to bite. We were not previously aware of this, I guess it was the day that Steve said she had been aggressively uncooperative. This explains why the hospice at once declared she was too difficult for them to handle when the question of respite care was raised a couple of weeks ago. It was agreed that the sedatives were wholly responsible for the calming of Isobel's behaviour over the past ten days, Isobel confirmed she had felt happier since she started taking these drugs. We discussed the need for respite now. Sarah made the point that if this assessment was made for a respite break, a whole new set of references and assessments would be needed for any further care. She was clearly of the opinion that long term care was required and stressed that this would allow us to take Isobel out of care for odd days or even weekend breaks. We all agreed that the rate of deterioration of Isobel's condition could result in her not being fit enough to return home after a respite break. I believe that Social Services also view the need as being for long term care, no doubt swayed by the views of the crisis team, especially Seywag. The assessment was therefore put forward for long term care. This was explained to Isobel who followed this part of the discussion carefully. She confirmed that she understood and agreed with the proposal to care for her outside the home.

The assessment will be pre-vetted by the chairwoman tomorrow afternoon and be considered by the resources committee on Friday. Although the place at which Isobel will be cared for has not yet been decided, the front runner is apparently just the other side of Dartford, close to Iona's house.

After the meeting Iona went off to lunch with Louisa and Teri from the school. After lunch Isobel lay in bed and watched television all afternoon. This is now normal and is about the only activity she can do and enjoy.

For dinner Isobel had chili con carne and rice, followed by apple crumble. Afterwards there was a wet bed to deal with and afterwards Isobel had coffee and biscuits before going to sleep just before 11pm.