Understanding how care is funded can be one of the most important steps when planning support for yourself or a loved one. There are several ways home care may be funded in the UK, depending on an individual’s needs, financial circumstances and eligibility for support.
At Bluebird Care Bromsgrove & Redditch, we understand that navigating these options can feel complex. The information below provides an overview of some of the funding routes that may be available and directs you to trusted organisations that can provide further guidance.
Paying for Care Yourself
Many people choose to arrange and pay for their own care, often referred to as self-funding.
Self-funded care allows individuals and families to:
Choose the level of support they need
Arrange care at times that suit them
Maintain flexibility as care needs change
Home care services can often be tailored to provide as little or as much support as required, helping individuals remain comfortable and independent in their own homes.
Local Authority Funding
In some cases, individuals may be eligible for financial support from their local authority.
Local councils can carry out a care needs assessment to determine whether someone qualifies for funded support. This assessment looks at how a person’s health and wellbeing are affected by their ability to manage daily activities.
If someone qualifies for support, the local authority may contribute towards the cost of care.
Residents in Bromsgrove and Redditch can request an assessment through Worcestershire County Council Adult Social Care.
Website
https://www.worcestershire.gov.uk/care-and-support-adults
Attendance Allowance
Attendance Allowance is a benefit provided by the UK Government for people who have reached State Pension age and need support due to illness or disability. It helps with the additional costs of personal care and support needs.
This benefit is not means-tested, which means eligibility is not based on income or savings.
Attendance Allowance may help individuals pay towards the cost of home care services or other forms of support.
For more information:
Attendance Allowance (GOV.UK)
https://www.gov.uk/attendance-allowance
Attendance Allowance helpline
Telephone: 0800 731 0122
NHS Continuing Healthcare
Some individuals with complex medical needs may be eligible for NHS Continuing Healthcare. This is a package of care arranged and funded entirely by the NHS for people whose primary need is related to their health.
Eligibility is determined through an assessment carried out by healthcare professionals.
If someone qualifies, NHS Continuing Healthcare may fund care delivered in the person’s home or another care setting.
More information can be found through the NHS:
NHS Continuing Healthcare guidance
https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/nhs-continuing-healthcare-and-nhs-funded-nursing-care
Additional Benefits and Support
Depending on individual circumstances, other financial support may also be available.
Examples include:
Pension Credit
Carer’s Allowance
Council Tax Reduction
Winter Fuel Payments
Advice and support regarding benefits can be obtained from organisations such as:
Age UK
Website: https://www.ageuk.org.uk
Citizens Advice
Website: https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk
Telephone: 0800 144 8848
These organisations can help individuals and families understand their options and may offer assistance when completing benefit applications.
Getting Advice About Care Funding
Every person’s circumstances are different, and understanding the most appropriate way to fund care can sometimes require personalised advice. Independent financial advisers who specialise in later-life planning can provide guidance on managing care costs and exploring available options. If you are considering care for yourself or a loved one, the team at Bluebird Care Bromsgrove & Redditch can also help guide you towards helpful resources and organisations that provide further information about care funding.
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