Cost of Care
Discover your available options.
In the UK, care costs can vary widely based on the type and level of service you need. Factors like care complexity, location, and service duration all play a part in determining the overall cost. Typically, home care in the UK is around £32.14 per hour (*prices taken from HCA 2025-26).
Funding Your Care Costs
Wondering how to fund your care? You have several choices: personal savings, insurance, and local authority funding if you are eligible. Here's a closer look at each option:
1. Local Authority Funding
First things first, you’ll need a 'needs assessment' from your local council. This assessment evaluates your care needs and the kind of support you require.
Council Needs Assessment:
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Contact your local council to request an assessment.
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A social worker will visit to understand your needs.
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The assessment looks at your physical health, mental health, and personal circumstances.
Means Test:
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After the 'needs assessment', a 'financial means test' will be carried out by your local council to evaluate your ability to contribute towards the cost of care.
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It considers your income, savings, and assets
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The outcome will decide whether you qualify for full or partial local authority funding. If not, they'll let you know and guide you on your next steps.
2. Continuing Healthcare (CHC) Funding
If you have significant health needs, NHS Continuing Healthcare funding could be an option.
CHC Assessment:
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Conducted by a team of health professionals, this detailed assessment examines your healthcare needs' level and complexity.
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If eligible, the NHS will cover your care costs in full
3. Personal Budgets and Direct Payments
Qualify for local authority funding? You can choose to receive the funds as a Personal Budget or Direct Payment, giving you control over your care expenditures and allowing you to spend it with a care provider of your choice.
A Personal Budget is a set amount of money allocated by the local authority to cover your care needs. With a Direct Payment, you receive the funds directly and have more flexibility in how they are used. Both options require proper budgeting and financial management to ensure that the funds are used effectively for your care needs.
4. Benefits Assistance
Extra financial support might be available to you if you are qualify through benefits like:
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Attendance Allowance
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Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
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Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
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Carer’s Allowance
How We Can Help
Filling out forms and navigating the options available can be daunting. Our team is experienced in providing support to apply for the funding you need if you qualify. Here’s how we can assist:
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Initial Consultation: We meet to discuss your situation and needs.
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Assessments: We can help you apply for a council needs assessment and CHC funding applications.
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Form Assistance: We assist with completing and submitting all necessary paperwork.
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Follow-Up Support: We provide ongoing support with your application.
By understanding care costs and available funding if you qualify, you can make informed decisions about the support and services you need. You can also contact the DWP to find out which benefits and support you may be entitled to.