Understanding home care funding can feel overwhelming. But you have options. In 2025, several funding routes can help pay for care. Here's everything you need to know.
Overview of Funding Options
Four main ways exist to fund home care. Each has different rules and eligibility criteria. Understanding them helps you choose the right path.
Main Funding Routes:
- Local Authority Funding - Council-funded care
- NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) - Fully NHS-funded
- Direct Payments - Control your own care budget
- Self-Funding - Pay privately for care
Local Authority Funding
Your local council may fund your care. This depends on your needs and finances. Sandwell and Dudley councils both offer this support.
Who Qualifies?
You need a care needs assessment. The council checks if your needs meet their criteria. They also do a financial assessment.
Financial Assessment
The council looks at your income and savings. If you have less than £14,250 in savings, you may get full funding. Between £14,250 and £23,250, you contribute to costs.
Your home isn't counted if you still live there. Pension income is considered. Some benefits are disregarded.
How to Apply
Contact your local council's adult social care team. Request a care needs assessment. They'll visit and assess your situation.
Contact Details:
- Sandwell Council: 0121 569 2266
- Dudley Council: 0300 555 0055
- Ask for Adult Social Care team
NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC)
CHC is fully funded by the NHS. It's for people with complex health needs. If eligible, all care costs are covered.
Eligibility Criteria
Your primary need must be healthcare. This means health needs are more significant than social care needs. Conditions like advanced dementia, terminal illness, or complex medical needs may qualify.
Assessment Process
A healthcare professional completes a checklist. If you pass, a full assessment follows. A multidisciplinary team reviews your case.
The process can take weeks or months. Don't give up if initially refused. Many successful appeals happen.
Direct Payments
Direct payments give you control. The council gives you money to arrange your own care. You choose your carers and services.
Benefits of Direct Payments
- Choose your own carers
- Flexible care arrangements
- Control over care times and activities
- Employ family members (in some cases)
Responsibilities
You manage the budget. You arrange care. You handle employment if hiring directly. Support is available to help with this.
Self-Funding Your Care
If you don't qualify for funding, you can pay privately. This gives you complete choice and flexibility.
Costs in 2025
Home care typically costs £25-£32 per hour in Sandwell and Dudley. Costs vary based on care complexity and timing.
Typical Weekly Costs:
- 4 hours/week: £100-£128
- 10 hours/week: £250-£320
- 20 hours/week: £500-£640
- Live-in care: £1,000-£1,500/week
Benefits of Self-Funding
You choose your provider. You decide care times. You can start immediately without waiting for assessments.
Other Financial Support
Attendance Allowance
If you're over 65 and need help with personal care, you may qualify. This is £72.65 or £108.55 per week in 2025. It's not means-tested.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
For people under 65 with care needs. Amounts vary based on assessment. This can help fund private care.
Carer's Allowance
If family members provide care, they may claim Carer's Allowance. This is £81.90 per week in 2025.
Need Help Understanding Your Options?
We help families navigate funding options. We can advise on eligibility and support your applications. Our care is available through all funding routes.
Making Your Decision
Consider all options. Apply for assessments even if unsure. Many people qualify for more help than they expect.
Get advice from local organizations. Age UK, Citizens Advice, and Carers UK all offer free guidance.
Final Thoughts
Funding home care is possible. Multiple routes exist. Don't let cost concerns prevent you from getting needed support.
Start by requesting assessments. Explore all options. The right funding solution exists for your situation.