How is my care funded?

Funding for care in the UK depends on personal financial circumstances, medical needs, and eligibility for government support. Generally, there are three main ways care is funded:

1. Local Authority Funding – If your savings and assets are below £23,250 in England (£50,000 in Wales, £32,750 in Scotland, and £23,250 in Northern Ireland), you may be eligible for financial support from your local council. A means test is conducted to determine how much you will contribute towards your care. If you qualify, the council may either fully or partially cover the costs.
2. NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) and NHS-Funded Nursing Care – If you have complex and ongoing medical needs, you may be eligible for NHS Continuing Healthcare, which covers care costs in full. If you require nursing care but do not qualify for CHC, the NHS may contribute towards nursing care costs through NHS-Funded Nursing Care (FNC). This applies to those in a nursing home rather than a residential home.
3. Self-Funding – If your savings and assets exceed the threshold, you will be required to fund your own care. Many people use their savings, pensions, or the value of their property to cover costs. Options such as equity release, care annuities, or deferred payment agreements with the local council may help manage expenses.

Care home costs vary depending on location, the level of care required, and the type of home. To give an example, our rooms start at around £650 and go right up to £1000 on average. It is advisable to seek professional financial advice to explore all available options and plan effectively for long-term care.

Questions to ask when choosing the right home for you.

If you are looking for a care of nursing home for a loved one or for care yourself, the range options can be quite overwhelming. It can be daunting trying to decide where to start. 

You can start by looking at options via their company website, or go on Carehome.co.uk, looking at comments, reviews and ratings You can also look at their latest CQC report. Bear in mind if you need residential care or nursing care, that they specialise in the area of care you need. If they have a waiting list and you need urgent care then check on this too.

You may want to use this simple check list to prompt you when making your choices.

Please see the list below, which can be used when visiting a care home.