There are a number of funding options available to support you in the UK if you are considering care support. Funding can however be difficult to secure and is a complicated process. But don't worry we can help you to understand what's available and also help you apply for funding if you need help with this.
Local Authority Funding:
If you require care but cannot afford to pay for it privately, you may be eligible for funding from your local council. This is determined through a care needs assessment followed by a financial assessment (means test).
- Council-Managed Funding: If your savings and assets are below £23,250, your local authority may contribute to or fully cover the cost of your care. The council will arrange and pay for your care services directly.
- Those with savings between £14,250 and £23,250 may receive partial assistance.
- While individuals with less than £14,250 might only contribute from their income.
- Direct Payments: Some people prefer to receive the funding directly from the council, allowing them to choose their own care provider. If you select Hope Homecare, we can assist in setting up direct payments and managing the process for you.
NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) Funding
For individuals with significant health needs, care may be fully funded by the NHS under the Continuing Healthcare (CHC) scheme. Eligibility is determined through a comprehensive assessment, and if approved, the NHS will cover the cost of your care. Because Hope Homecare is an approved provider on the NHS and Integrated Care Board (ICB) frameworks, the transition to our services is simple and straightforward. We can support you in applying for CHC funding, ensuring you have the correct documentation and information for a successful application.
Private Funding (Self-Funding)
If you do not qualify for council or NHS funding, you may need to pay for your care privately. This is often the case if your assets exceed £23,250 (as per national funding thresholds in England). We offer flexible payment methods, including bank transfer and card payments. If you are funding your care, we can help you explore alternative financial support options such as care annuities, equity releases, or other financing solutions.
Government Grants and Funds
The government provides additional funding to support social care services:
- Better Care Fund: A pooled budget to integrate health and social care services, aiming to provide person-centred care.
- Household Support Fund: Assists low-income households with essential costs, including care-related expenses. Availability and application deadlines vary by local council.
- Free Personal Care: Certain areas, like Hammersmith and Fulham, provide free personal care to residents, reducing the financial burden on individuals. It's essential to contact your local council to explore available options and determine eligibility based on your circumstances.
We Can Help You Arrange Your Funding
At Hope Homecare, we don't just provide care – we also support you in getting the right funding in place. If you choose us as your care provider, we can: ✅Assist you with the local authority care assessment process ✅Support you in applying for CHC funding from the NHS ✅Guide you through setting up Direct Payments ✅Advise on private payment options. ✅We work closely with local authorities, NHS teams, and other funding bodies to ensure that you get the support you are entitled to. ✅Our team will help you understand the funding process, complete any necessary paperwork, and liaise with the relevant authorities on your behalf.
Conclusion
The UK care funding system is often described as fragmented and underfunded, making navigation difficult for individuals and families seeking timely and adequate support. This can place a huge burden on people when they are at their most vulnerable.
At Hope Homecare we are well-versed in the intricacies of local authority assessments, NHS Continuing Healthcare applications, and available government schemes.
This means we can help clients understand eligibility criteria and what documentation is needed. We also have have financial planning contacts who can advise you on sustainable care funding options, including how to manage any personal assets to maximise entitlements such as Attendance Allowance or Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
Please do not hesitate to get in touch with our team, or complete the form below, if you would like to chat through your funding options, or gain a better understanding of what financial support may be available to you to support your ongoing care needs, or those of a loved one.