Funding Your Care
Understanding how to fund care can be complex. Here's a comprehensive overview of the main funding options available in England.
First Step: Request a Needs Assessment
Contact your local council to request a free care needs assessment. This determines what care you need and whether you qualify for council funding. You have a legal right to an assessment regardless of your finances.
NHS Continuing Healthcare
Free care funded by the NHS
If you have a complex medical condition or significant healthcare needs, you may qualify for free NHS-funded care.
Fully funded by the NHS
Not means-tested
Covers care home or care at home
A clinical assessment using a Decision Support Tool determines eligibility based on your primary health needs.
Local Authority Funding
Council-funded support
Your local council may help pay for care based on a needs assessment and financial (means) test.
Assets below £23,250 may qualify
Your home may be disregarded in some cases
Sliding scale between £14,250-£23,250
The council arranges and pays for care directly, though you may need to contribute towards costs.
Self-Funding
Paying for your own care
If your assets exceed £23,250 (including property in some cases), you'll typically need to fund your own care.
Use savings and investments
Sell or rent out property
Equity release schemes
Deferred payment agreements
Self-funders often have more choice over which provider they use.
Attendance Allowance
Benefit for those over 65
A non-means-tested benefit for people over 65 who need help with personal care due to physical or mental disability.
Lower rate: £72.65 per week
Higher rate: £108.55 per week
Not affected by savings or income
Can be used alongside other funding to top up care costs.
Deferred Payment Agreements
If your main asset is your home, you may be able to delay paying care costs until a later date (usually when you sell your property or pass away).
You may qualify if:
Your home is included in the financial assessment
You have less than £23,250 in other assets
You're receiving care in a care home
How it works:
Council pays your care fees
A legal charge is placed on your property
Debt repaid when property is sold