This chapter opens with a summary of advice on interviewing people with intellectual disabilities. Then the need rating algorithm is provided, as it applies to CANDID-S and Section 1 of CANDID-R. Need ratings of met (M), unmet (U) and no need (N) represent a change from the numerical ratings of CANDID 1st edition. Furthermore, a set of frequently asked questions and comprehensive answers is provided. The questions are applicable to both CANDID-S and CANDID-R.

Step by step description of using the CANDID-R as a needs assessment tool is provided. This includes suggestions on what CANDID-S can be used for (as an audit and research tool, as well as as an aid for a CANDID-S user to familiarise themselves with the approach) and who can use CANDID-R (no formal training is required and can be used by any person with experience in working with adults with intellectual disabilities and mental health problems). Then, the question of who should be interviewed is addressed, whilst highlighting the importance of assessing needs of the person from three perspectives: that of the person being assessed, their informal carer and the staff involved in their care. A description is provided as to how the instrument is used by way of a semi-structured interview using trigger questions in each domain, to initiate discussion. As with CANDID-S, a timeframe of 4 weeks is used. In addition, the rating of informal and formal help and satisfaction with the latter is described. Thus, the interview with each respondent takes typically 20–30 minutes. Finally, the approach to recording the need ratings and summary scores is descibed: one recording sheet for each interview or record ratings on CANDID-R.

Step by step description of using the CANDID-S as a needs assessment tool is provided. This includes suggestions on what CANDID-S can be used for (clinical and research purposes in community and hospital settings) and who can use CANDID-S (no formal training is required and can be used by any person with experience in working with adults with intellectual disabilities and mental health problems). Furthermore, the question of who should be interviewed is addressed, whilst highlighting the importance of assessing needs of the person from three perspectives that of the person being assessed, their informal carer and that of staff involved in their care. Then a description is provided as to how the instrument is used by way of a semi-structured interview using trigger questions in each domain, to initiate discussion. A timeframe of 4 weeks is used and the interview with each respondent takes typically 10-15 minutes. Finally, the approach to recording the need ratings is descibed and the concept of summary scores is introduced.