Care can be expensive. Most people pay some, or all, of their care costs themselves. If you have investments and/or savings of more than £23,250 you will pay for your own home care. If you have between £14,250 and £23,250 we may be able to make a contribution to your care fees.
If you are going into residential care, the value of your house will be taken into account too.
Some elements of care may be funded by the NHS for a short time period following discharge from hospital. You should receive information about this, if it applies to you, as part of the discharge process.
Are you worried about paying for your care?
We understand that due to the current cost of living crisis things may be very difficult at the moment. Nobody should consider having to cancel their care because they cannot afford it.
If you are considering doing this, please contact the our Financial Assessment Team for a discussion to see if they can help in any way.
Tel: 0300 126 3003
The team can look at ways to help you to afford your care. They can check that you are claiming all relevant disability related expenditure and benefits to which you are entitled.
How we calculate funding for care
If you are assessed as being eligible for care and support services we will work out how much it will cost to meet your needs.
We will then carry out a financial assessment to see whether we will make a contribution to these costs.
The total amount needed to fund your support is called a personal budget.
Paying for care in your own home
If you are assessed to be eligible for care and support services in the home we will work out how much it will cost to enable you to live the life you want. Most people pay for some, or all, of their care costs.
Paying for residential care
Independent financial and legal advice
If you will be paying for care, we strongly recommend that you get independent financial and/or legal advice. You must weigh up each option carefully. We are unable to give advice on financial matters.
You should choose a financial adviser who:
- can give impartial advice
- can help you make an informed decision
- has experience of providing advice on long term care
Fees for financial advice will vary. Costs should be transparent, make sure you understand how much you will be paying.
You may also need an adviser with a good understanding of the Mental Capacity Act 2005.
The Society of Later Life Advisers (SOLLA) helps people find Independent Financial Advisers in their area who specialise in the financial needs of older people. SOLLA members are independently accredited to offer the added reassurance that, as well as holding professional qualifications, they can offer practical guidance to help you make decisions about financing your care needs.
The Citizens Advice Bureau can also advise on local sources of support for financial advice.
Reduce the risk of needing to pay for care
You can reduce the risk of needing care by:
- staying fit, whatever your age. Information on staying 'Stronger for Longer' on Be Well website.
- taking steps to reduce the risk of falls. Many people are never able to live independently again after a bad fall.
- organising family support
- getting community support
- using equipment and technology that can keep you safe, well and independent