Have you ever found yourself asking—how much does home care actually cost, and what does that price really include?
It’s a common question, especially for families navigating care decisions for the first time. Whether you’re supporting an elderly parent who wants to stay independent, or arranging care for a loved one with complex needs, understanding the financial side of home care is key to planning with confidence.
At Home Instead New Forest, we meet families across the region who are trying to balance quality care, emotional reassurance, and financial sustainability. In this blog, we’ll look at what home carers charge per hour in 2025, what factors shape those rates, and how to make the best decision for your family.
The Average Hourly Rate for Home Care in 2025
As of 2025, the average hourly rate for home care across London is £19.62. While prices in the New Forest tend to sit slightly lower due to differences in demand and overheads, this figure offers a useful starting point for comparison.
Hourly care works best for individuals who need support at set times during the day. This might include assistance with getting up in the morning, medication reminders, preparing meals, or companionship in the afternoon.
At Home Instead New Forest, our care is designed around the individual. Whether your loved one needs help once a day or several times a week, we offer support that fits seamlessly into their life—without disrupting the routines and comforts they value.
What Does Hourly Home Care Include?
Hourly care provides practical support while helping your loved one remain independent in their own home. Some of the most common tasks we support with include:
- Personal care (washing, dressing, grooming)
- Meal preparation and hydration reminders
- Medication prompts and prescription collection
- Support with mobility or getting around the home
- Companionship and emotional support
- Light housekeeping and laundry
- Transport to medical appointments or social activities
Care at Home Instead New Forest is never “one-size-fits-all.” We take time to understand each person’s needs, preferences, and personality. That way, we match them with a consistent carer who understands what matters most—whether it’s breakfast a certain way or help watering the garden.
What Can Influence the Cost of Hourly Care?
There are several factors that can affect hourly care rates in the New Forest:
1. Location
Travel time and rural access can influence pricing. Some areas of the New Forest may involve longer journeys between clients, especially in more remote locations.
2. Type of Care Needed
Specialist care, such as dementia support, post-operative help, or palliative care, may be charged at a slightly higher rate due to the level of expertise required.
3. Visit Frequency
Short visits once or twice a week may cost more per hour than regular, longer bookings. Many care providers offer more competitive pricing for consistent schedules.
4. Additional Duties
Tasks such as cooking full meals from scratch, supporting two people (such as couples’ care), or providing transport may affect the overall cost.
At Home Instead New Forest, we’re always upfront about pricing. You’ll receive a detailed care plan and clear costs from the beginning, with no hidden surprises.
How Does Live-In Care Compare?
For those who need more consistent, round-the-clock help, live-in care may be a more suitable solution. In 2025, the average cost of live-in care in the UK is around £151.29 per day, or roughly £1,059 per week.
Live-in care means a professional carer lives in the home, providing support during the day and being available at night. It’s ideal for those living alone, for couples who want to stay together, or for people recovering from surgery or illness.
This option offers many of the same benefits as a care home—but with the added comfort of familiar surroundings, privacy, and individual attention.
What About 24/7 Care?
If your loved one needs overnight support with wakeful night shifts, then 24/7 care may be required. This level of care is more intensive and usually involves a team of carers working in shifts.
Costs typically range between £1,620 and £2,380 per week, depending on the complexity of care needed. While it is more expensive, it provides peace of mind—especially for those at high risk of falls, wandering, or medical emergencies.
Unlike care homes, where staff must divide their time between multiple residents, 24/7 care at home means one-to-one support, delivered with consistency and familiarity.
Comparing Care Options: What Are You Paying For?
Type of Care | Weekly Cost | What’s Included |
Hourly Home Care | £137 – £686 | 1–7 hours/day of help with personal care, meals, etc. |
Live-in Home Care | £1,059 – £2,000 | Daytime and evening support, companionship |
24/7 Home Care | £1,620 – £2,380 | Round-the-clock presence, wakeful nights |
Assisted Living | ~£1,038 | Shared accommodation and staff |
Nursing Home | £1,824 – £2,080 | Full-time care with nursing staff |
The real difference lies in the level of personalisation. Home care keeps people where they’re happiest—at home, surrounded by the people and things they love.
What Determines the Final Cost?
Beyond the hourly rate, the total cost of care depends on:
- The number of visits or hours per week
- Whether care is during the day, overnight, or weekends
- Whether any specialist skills are needed
- Support for individuals or couples
- Medical or mobility-related tasks
At Home Instead New Forest, we work closely with families to tailor care that is both suitable and affordable. We also explain any changes clearly, so you always know where you stand.
Funding Home Care: What Support Is Available?
Many families in the New Forest choose to pay privately for care, but there is help available. You may be entitled to one or more of the following:
Local Authority Funding (England)
- Full funding if assets are below £14,250
- Partial funding for assets between £14,250 and £23,250
- Self-funding if assets exceed £23,250
Additional Financial Support
- Attendance Allowance (up to £108.55/week) for those over State Pension age
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for under State Pension age
- Carer’s Allowance (£81.90/week) for unpaid carers
- Pension Credit and other disability-related premiums
- Council Tax reductions for those receiving care at home
We understand how complex this can be. That’s why our New Forest team is happy to help you navigate these options and assist with applications wherever possible.
Choosing the Right Provider in the New Forest
Whether you’re hiring an independent carer or using an agency, there are important things to look for:
Provider Type | Hourly Rate | DBS Checks | Training & Supervision |
Independent Carer | £15 – £25 | Not always | Not guaranteed |
Care Agency | £25 – £35 | Yes | Yes |
Care Platform | £16.50 – £25 | Yes | Varies |
At Home Instead New Forest, every member of our team is trained, vetted, and supported. We don’t just send someone to help—we match the right person to your family, ensuring continuity and trust.
Speak to Home Instead New Forest Today
Choosing the right care doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Our experienced team is here to guide you through each step. Whether you’re exploring hourly care or looking into live-in support, we’ll help you understand the costs and options available—without pressure or obligation.
📞 Call us today on [insert local number]
💻 Visit us at https://www.homeinstead.co.uk/new-forest/
✉️ Email us at [insert local email]
Your loved one deserves care that’s thoughtful, consistent, and built around them. Let’s have a conversation about how we can help.
