What happens if you can’t afford a care home?

Options if you can't afford a care home

• Local authority financial support:If affording a care home is challenging, local authorities provide financial assistance to eligible individuals. Contact your local authority to undergo a care needs assessment.

• Financial assessment: A critical step in determining eligibility for financial aid. Your income, savings, investments, and property value are evaluated during this assessment.

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• Asset thresholds: If your assets exceed a certain limit, you may need to self-fund your care home placement.

• Mixed funding: In certain cases, individuals may opt for mixed funding, contributing a portion of care fees while the local authority covers the remainder.

While care home costs in the UK can be significant, avenues for financial support exist. Conducting a thorough assessment of your financial situation and seeking guidance from local authorities and professionals can ensure necessary care while managing costs.

It's crucial to explore these options early on to make informed choices about care home placement.

Comparison of Funding Options

Contact us: 

We are here to help you choose a care home or facility best suited to your needs. Do not hesitate to contact us at 0230 608 0055 or fill out this form.

FAQ: 

1. What options are available if I can’t afford a care home?
If you can’t afford a care home, options include:

• Local authority funding for eligible individuals.
• NHS Continuing Healthcare for those with severe medical needs.
• Deferred Payment Schemes, which allow payments to be delayed using property equity.
• Financial support from charitable organizations.

2. How do I qualify for local authority funding?
You must undergo a financial means test and a care needs assessment. In England, savings below £23,250 may make you eligible for partial or full funding.

3. What is the NHS Continuing Healthcare program?
This program provides fully funded care for individuals with severe and ongoing medical needs. It covers all care and accommodation costs but requires a specific health assessment for eligibility.

4. What is a Deferred Payment Scheme?
A Deferred Payment Scheme allows you to delay care home payments if you own property. Payments are recovered later, usually when the property is sold.

5. Can charitable organizations help with care home fees?
Yes, organizations like Age UK and Alzheimer’s Society provide grants or financial assistance to help with care costs for those in need.

6. What happens if my savings run out while self-funding?
If your savings fall below the local authority threshold (£23,250 in England), you can apply for state-funded care. A reassessment will determine your eligibility for support.

7. Is my home considered in a financial assessment?
Your home is included unless a qualifying dependent (such as a spouse or disabled relative) lives there, in which case it may be exempt from the assessment.

8. How can I start the process for care home funding?
Contact your local authority to request a financial means test and a care needs assessment. They will guide you through the process and determine your eligibility for funding.

9. Are personal belongings included in financial assessments?
No, personal possessions like clothing and furniture are typically exempt. However, valuable items such as jewelry may be included, depending on their worth.

10. What steps should I take if I can’t afford care?

• Contact your local authority for a financial assessment.
• Check eligibility for NHS Continuing Healthcare.
• Explore Deferred Payment Schemes or charitable grants.
• Seek advice from organizations like Age UK for tailored guidance.

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