Funding Your Care

Job Hit By Coronavirus? Check our Northern Region Carer Posts Now

March 20, 2020

Many people presume that receiving a bespoke care at home service is beyond their financial means; however, as more information about financing care becomes available in the public domain, care at home is becoming an increasingly popular option. Funding for care can be a confusing subject area, however, by carrying out a little research and utilising resources available to you, your options become clearer and easier to understand.

Public Funding

You may be eligible to receive help with funding your care from the Government. You have the right to request a free care assessment from your local Social Services department; this can include a community care assessment and a means- tested financial assessment to see if you are eligible to receive support with the cost of your care. Your GP can refer you to the appropriate person at The Western Trust….Public Funding

Direct Payments

If you have been assessed as needing care services, you may be offered direct payments. These payments are designed to support you to remain living at home, encouraging independence and social inclusion in areas such as employment, education and leisure activities. As you are effectively purchasing your own services, if you so wish, you can add your own funds to your direct payment to purchase services above the value of your direct payment. This allows you not only to buy your care from the person or organisation you prefer, but also to buy services in addition to those you care assessment states, should you wish to. For further information on Direct Payments contact your local social services, or visit The DoH Easy Guide to Direct Payments.

Independent Living Fund

Funded by Central Government, the Independent Living Fund supports people with disabilities to live independently in their own homes, rather than in residential care. Payments are made to people with disabilities so they can afford the employment costs, or associated employment costs, of a personal assistant or care agency to provide the support they need to remain living at home. There are many things which the fund cannot be used to pay for, to understand what cannot be paid for with the fund; you can read more on the Government website.

Private Funding

Should you not be eligible for public funding, or would simply prefer to fund your care privately, you will need to source your care independently. We can provide you with care that suits your needs. Please contact the office for details and a free initial assessment.