Funding Home Care
Home Care Funding Options For Unpaid Family Carers
Navigating home care funding can feel overwhelming, but understanding the main routes is the first step toward securing the right support. Whether you are looking into state funding, partially funded council contributions, or self funding, our guide explains the pathways available to you in the West Midlands.
At Crossroads Home Care, we are committed to helping families in Sandwell, Birmingham, and Dudley make informed decisions about their loved one’s care and support.
Quick Guide To Who Pays For Care
Understanding paying for care starts with the financial assessment (or means test). If your savings and assets exceed the upper limit of £23,250 in England, you are typically classified as a self funder. If you have less than this amount, your local council may help with care costs. It is important to note that funding rules vary depending on where you live; for example, policies in Northern Ireland differ from those in England.
Attendance Allowance
If your loved one has reached State Pension age and requires assistance with everyday tasks, they may be eligible for Attendance Allowance. This is free, non-means-tested, and tax-free money designed to help with the cost of care. Payments range from £68.10 to £101.75 per week depending on the level of need, and it is a crucial form of financial help for those requiring personal care or supervision.
NHS Continuing Healthcare And Social Care Support
For individuals with complex medical needs, NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) may provide full funding for care at home or in a residential care home. This is distinct from local authority funding, which focuses on social care. If you are not eligible for CHC, the council may still contribute to your care following a needs assessment and financial assessment. Always check with your local health and social care teams for the latest guidance.
Care Home Costs And Care Home Fees
If you are transitioning to residential care, care home fees can vary significantly by region. If you own your home, remember the 12-week property disregard rule, which may protect your property value during the initial stages of care.
Always ask about “top-up fees” if your preferred care home exceeds the council’s standard rate, and ensure you have a clear price list before making commitments.
Home Care Costs, Homecare Agencies, And Choices
Home care typically costs between £26 to £38 per hour in England, with a UK average of around £20 per hour. Live in care is more intensive, costing between £800 and £1,600 per week.
Whether you choose from homecare agencies or hire an own carer directly, ensure you read reviews and verify their registration to ensure high-quality personal care.
How To Arrange Funding For Home Care
The first step is to request a free care needs assessment from your local council. This assessment determines the type of care required and leads to a care plan. After this, you will undergo a financial assessment to determine if the council pays for all or part of your care.
You may be eligible for Direct Payments, which give you control over how to arrange your own care services.
Minimum Income Guarantee (MIG)
The Minimum Income Guarantee (MIG) ensures that after paying for your care, you are left with a set amount of money to cover your daily living expenses.
This threshold protects your income and ensures that those with limited assets are not left without the means to live independently while receiving council-supported personal care.
Own Home: Deferred Payments, Renting, Selling
If your primary asset is your own home, the local council may offer a Deferred Payment Scheme, allowing you to use the value of your property to delay paying care fees. While renting out the home or selling it are options, these are often viewed as last resorts.
Always seek independent financial advice before making decisions regarding your own home.
Equity Release And Other Financial Support
Equity release is a way for homeowners over 55 to access funds tied up in their property, though it carries significant risks. For other financial support, look into charitable grants available for specific conditions.
Before proceeding with these routes, consult a specialist adviser regarding your financial circumstances.
Home Adaptations And Funding Help
Local councils provide free assessments to suggest home adaptations—such as level-access showers or ramps—that make living in your own home safer. If these costs exceed certain limits, the council may contribute.
These changes can make a big difference in managing daily living while waiting for further support.
If You Are Self Funding And Money Runs Out
If you are self funding and your savings are nearing the £23,250 threshold, you must contact your local council at least three months before your money runs out.
Request a reassessment promptly so that your transition to local authority funding is seamless and your care and support is not interrupted.
How Crossroads Caring For Carers Can Help
We provide local benefits guidance, respite care services, and training for family carers. We can signpost you to independent legal advisers and help you understand your rights to financial support.
Practical Steps For Carers To Take Now
Apply for Attendance Allowance
or Personal Independence Payment (for those under State Pension age) if eligible.
Book a care needs
assessment with your local council.
Gather financial documents
(bank statements, pension details) to prepare for the means test.
Frequently asked questions
It is either the council, the individual (self funder), or a combination of both.
It is generally excluded if you are receiving care in your own home.
CHC is for complex health needs (free), while social care funding is means-tested.
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