What care costs, and who pays.
Paying for care is confusing on purpose in most places. Here is how it actually works, and what we will commit to in writing.
Our hourly rates
Being confirmedWe are finalising our rates and will publish them on this page rather than making you ring to find out. In the meantime we will give you a written cost at assessment, before you commit to anything.
What we will commit to now: no joining fee, no charge for the assessment, and no charge for a visit we did not make.
Funding routes
Four ways care gets paid for
The council pays
If a needs assessment finds you are eligible, and a financial assessment finds you qualify, your council arranges and funds care. You may still contribute depending on your income and savings.
What to do: Start by asking your council for a care needs assessment. It is free and everyone is entitled to one.
Direct payments
Instead of the council arranging care, it gives you the money and you choose the provider. It is more control and slightly more admin.
What to do: If you already receive direct payments, you can use them with us. Tell us at the assessment.
You pay yourself
If your savings are above the threshold, or you would rather not go through the council, you arrange care privately. You are still entitled to a council needs assessment.
What to do: We put the hourly cost in writing before anything starts, with no joining fee.
The NHS pays
If someone's needs are primarily health rather than social care, NHS Continuing Healthcare may cover the full cost. It is assessed separately by the NHS.
What to do: Ask the discharge team or GP about a Continuing Healthcare checklist.
Other help
Benefits worth checking
Attendance Allowance is for people over State Pension age who need help with personal care. It is not means tested, it does not depend on savings, and a great many people who qualify never claim it.
Carer’s Allowance may be available to a family member providing substantial unpaid care.
Age UK and Citizens Advice both offer free, independent help with these claims. We are not financial advisers and we will not pretend to be.
Our commitments
What you will get in writing
- The hourly rate, and what counts as an hour
- The agreed visit times and how long each visit is
- What the carer will and will not do
- Notice periods, on both sides
- How and when the rate could change