Navigating Home Care Funding Options
As the population in West Sussex continues to age, more and more people are looking for care and support. While residential care is an option, the majority prefer living at home for as long as possible. However, costs associated with in-home care can be daunting: between government and local authority funding and personal finance, it can be difficult to get a clear picture of how to fund your home care. If you are just starting your care journey, it is worth considering a few key points to help you navigate your funding options.
Which care is right for me?
To make an informed decision about how to finance the cost of your care, you should first consider the different options that are available to you. The complexity of your care needs will determine which types of care are most suitable. Possibilities for care at home include informal family/friend support, hourly home visits, temporary respite care, part-time live-in care, or full 24/7 live-in care. Live-in home care provides high quality, personalised support, and can be very cost-effective compared to a care home. Live-in care can also be combined with respite care, if you are currently being supported by friends and family.
Financial Support Options
There are different options available to you depending on the care you receive. While some support is means-tested, other packages are available based on the complexity of your care needs, or whether you are above state pension age. West Sussex County Council, the UK government, and the NHS all offer different funding options.
NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC)
If you have significant ongoing care needs, you may qualify for NHS Continuing Healthcare – which provides full funding for care fees. The NHS determines eligibility through an assessment which looks at criteria such as mobility, nutrition, continence, and more. This provision is not means-tested.
NHS Funded Nursing Care (FNC)
If you receive care at home and require support from a registered nurse, FNC payments could cover some of these costs. At present, the FNC is £209.19 per week for those eligible.
West Sussex County Council Support
If you have less than £23,250 in capital and savings, you may be able to access local authority funding for care through West Sussex County Council’s social care team. The first step is to undergo a care needs assessment to determine eligibility and required support levels. Depending on your income and assets, you may qualify for full or partial funding assistance.
Attendance Allowance
This non-means-tested benefit of up to £92.40 per week is paid to those over state pension age with care needs. It can be put towards any support required, including live-in care costs.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
For those aged under state pension age with a long-term disability or condition, PIP can provide between £24.45 and £94.80 per week to contribute towards care costs.
Privately Funded Care
Using Income/Savings
If your savings and assets are above the £23,250 threshold, you’ll be expected to self-fund your care initially. However, once assets drop below this level, you could then receive council support. It’s advisable to plan for how income, investments and housing equity could fund care over several years.
Equity Release
If you have property assets, equity release products like lifetime mortgages enable accessing some of the value tied up in your home to pay for care, while still retaining full ownership. This can be a way to fund quality live-in care and remain at home.
Seeking Specialist Advice
If you’re unsure which funding option is most appropriate for your circumstances, don’t be afraid to seek specialist guidance. There are independent, approved care fees advisors at CareWiseAdvice.com who can guide you through your specific financial situation and live-in care funding options in West Sussex, and websites such as Which? or MoneyHelper can offer additional information.
At Promedica24 West Sussex, I am always available to discuss funding your live-in home care with us, and put together a bespoke care package that works best for you, whether on a part-time, full-time, or temporary basis.
About the Author
Jo is one of our Regional Care Consultants, covering live-in care services in the West Sussex area. As a trained nurse, Jo is passionate about making sure everyone receives the support they need, when they need it – contact Jo at 01243 282826 or 07901 550860 to discuss your care needs confidentially.
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