Have You Ever Wondered How Home Care Costs Are Covered?
For many older adults and their families, the cost of home care is a key concern. Whether you’re exploring care options for yourself or a loved one, knowing whether financial support is available can make all the difference. While some individuals pay for home care themselves, others may be eligible for funding from their local council. But how does this work, and what are the options?
At Home Instead New Forest, we understand that navigating care costs can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to break down what you need to know, ensuring you or your loved one can access the right support without unnecessary financial strain.
What is Home Care and Who Can Benefit?
Home care, also known as domiciliary care, provides essential support to individuals who need help with daily activities but prefer to remain in their own homes. This type of care can be short-term, such as following an illness, or long-term for those who require ongoing assistance.
A paid carer can help with a wide range of tasks, including:
- Getting in and out of bed
- Washing, dressing, and personal hygiene
- Preparing meals and drinks
- Taking prescribed medication
- Shopping and collecting prescriptions
- Light housekeeping and laundry
- Providing companionship and emotional support
- Supporting social activities and outings
Home care can be tailored to meet individual needs, ensuring that those who struggle with mobility or daily routines can continue to live safely and comfortably at home.
Understanding the Costs of Home Care
The cost of home care varies depending on the level of support required and where you live. On average, home care services in the UK range from £15 to £30 per hour. If multiple visits or live-in care are needed, the cost can increase.
Some people pay for home care privately, while others receive financial support from their local council. The amount of funding available depends on a care needs assessment and a financial assessment conducted by the council.
How Local Council Funding Works
Your local council will assess both your care needs and financial situation to determine whether you are eligible for funding. The financial assessment looks at your income and savings, following these thresholds:
| Savings Amount | Contribution Required |
| Over £23,250 | Full cost (self-funded) |
| £14,250 – £23,250 | Partial council funding with a contribution based on income |
| Less than £14,250 | Council-funded, with a contribution from income |
If your savings exceed £23,250, you will need to pay for your care in full. However, there are ways to manage the costs, such as benefits and allowances designed to support older adults with care expenses.
Financial Support for Home Care
Even if you are required to pay for home care, certain non-means-tested benefits may help cover costs. These include:
- Attendance Allowance – £72.65 to £108.55 per week for those over State Pension age who need help with personal care.
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – £72.65 to £108.55 per week for those under State Pension age, plus a mobility component of £28.70 to £75.75 per week.
- Carer’s Allowance – £81.90 per week for those providing at least 35 hours of care to someone receiving certain disability benefits.
- Pension Credit – Guarantee Credit tops up income to £218.15 per week for individuals or £332.95 for couples.
How to Arrange Home Care
There are two main ways to arrange home care services:
1. Through the Local Council
If you qualify for financial support, the council can arrange care for you. You can also opt for a personal budget, where you receive funding to choose your own care provider, giving you greater flexibility.
2. Arranging Care Privately
If you are not eligible for council-funded care or prefer to arrange care independently, you can choose a home care agency or hire a private carer. While hiring independently can provide more continuity, it also involves responsibilities such as managing payroll and ensuring the carer has the right to work in the UK.
Choosing a Home Care Provider
If you decide to use a home care agency, it’s important to select a reputable provider. When researching options, consider:
- NHS and local authority directories – Many councils list registered home care agencies.
- Care Quality Commission (CQC) ratings – The CQC inspects and rates home care providers based on their quality of service.
- Homecare Association – Lists accredited home care agencies.
Before committing to a provider, ask key questions, such as:
- What are the costs, and are there any additional fees?
- What training do carers receive?
- Can I request specific time slots?
- How are emergencies handled?
- Can I review the contract before signing
Home Help vs. Home Care
While home care provides personal and medical support, home help focuses on general household tasks, such as:
- Cleaning and tidying
- Laundry and ironing
- Cooking and meal preparation
- Gardening and minor maintenance
Local councils do not typically fund home help services, but organisations such as Age UK and the British Red Cross may offer assistance.
Avoiding the Need to Sell Your Home for Care
One common concern is whether individuals need to sell their homes to cover care costs. If you receive care at home, your property will not be included in the financial assessment. However, if you require residential care, the council may consider the value of your home unless a spouse or dependent still lives there.
Alternative options to help fund care include:
- Equity release – Accessing money tied up in your home (though this accrues interest over time).
- Renting out your home – Generating rental income to cover care fees.
- Deferred payment schemes – The council covers costs upfront, with repayment made when the home is eventually sold.
What to Do If You’re Unhappy with Home Care Services
If you are dissatisfied with your home care, you have the right to make a complaint. Common concerns include:
- Carers arriving late or leaving early
- Poor medication management
- Inadequate personal care
- Untidy conditions after visits
If your care is arranged through the local council, contact their adult social care department. If self-funded, direct complaints to the home care agency. If the issue is unresolved, you can escalate concerns to:
- The Local Government & Social Care Ombudsman – Investigates complaints against councils.
- Care Quality Commission (CQC) – Ensures home care providers meet required standards.
- Independent advocates – Some councils provide advocacy services to support complaints.
Final Thoughts
Understanding home care funding is key to making informed decisions. Whether you qualify for financial support or need to pay privately, there are various options to ensure you receive the care you need.
At Home Instead New Forest, we are committed to providing compassionate, high-quality home care that supports independence and dignity. If you would like to learn more about our services or discuss funding options, our team is here to help.
For personalised home care advice, get in touch with Home Instead New Forest today.
