Paying for Care
We recognise the importance of person centred care that focuses on the needs of the individual. To that end the staff will ensure that a carefully tailored care plan is created based on an individual pre-admission assessment.
This will be planned on your specific needs; therefore the final cost can not be determined until the completion of the assessment and the choice of room available at the time of admission.
The plan of care will be reviewed regularly to ensure that any changing needs are identified and an appropriate level of care is provided at all times. We are, therefore, unable to provide a quote without the necessary information and assessment details.
Can I get financial help?
Social care, unlike healthcare, is not free to everyone. If you have capital assets of over £23000.00* you will be required to pay the full cost of the care provided. This fee starts at £550.00 per week* If you have capital of less than £23000.00* you will be expected to declare your income and savings.
An assessment of your charges will then be made. In this instance you will have a social worker to help you. There is a minimum charge which everyone has to pay and the Department of Social Security (DSS) will ensure that you will at least have sufficient income to meet this charge and be left with a statutory personal allowance.
*figure may change
Financial assessments
If your needs do match the level set by your council, the council will carry out a financial assessment. Depending on your income, savings or assets, such as your home, you may have to pay for some or all of your care:
For residential services, such as care homes, the council may ignore the value of your home if your husband, wife or partner is still living there. They may also be able to ignore the value of your home for up to 12 weeks, and offer you a loan to give you time to decide what to do with your property.
Your local council should have information leaflets about their charging policies and the processes they follow.
What other help can I get to pay for care?
Third party top-up payments: Your local council might ask a friend or a relative if they can top up your fees.
Fully-funded NHS care: If you have more complex health needs, you may be eligible for what's known as 'continuing NHS healthcare' which is free.
What do I do if I have problems paying for my care?
If you have problems paying for your care you should talk to your council's social services.
Get independent financial advice
You may find it useful to get some independent financial advice before deciding how to manage your money. Always make sure the firm you use is on the Financial Services Authority (FSA) register.
You may also want to talk to a solicitor, for example, if you want to set up a power of attorney to let a relative or friend act on your behalf.
Please click here to be directed to Directgov for more information.
