Care home and in-home care costs
Many people needing care find they’ll have to cover some or all of the costs themselves, and it can be daunting. But taking a few minutes to understand the costs can help you to choose your next steps carefully and avoid having to move to a new care provider later on if your care needs change.
In home care costs
United Kingdom Homecare Association (UKHCA) minimum price for homecare, of £20.69 per hour, covers the UK Living Wage for careworkers, their travel time, mileage and wage-related on-costs. The rate also includes the minimum contribution towards the costs of running a care business at a financially sustainable level.
Care home costs
Care home fees can be significant and again, vary depending on where you live and your needs. In many homes you could expect to pay more than £1,000 per week, although the average weekly cost for a residential care home is approximately £650. This average increases to £900 where nursing care is required.
Our quick and easy Care Costs Calculator
If you want to understand how your care may be paid for, our calculator can give you an answer in just five easy steps
Ways of paying for care
There are several different ways you can pay for care, and most people find they need a combination of two or more to cover the full cost. These are some of the most common ways to pay:
Local Authority Funding
Your local authority may be eligible to cover some, or all, of your care cost.
NHS funding
If you have a nursing need as well as a social care need, the NHS could pay for some of your care.
State benefits
Regardless of means, every one needing care is likely to be eligible for an attendance allowance – it’s the most under claimed benefit in the UK.
Using your property
If you own a property you may be able to use the value in your home to help cover the cost of home care and any home adaptations or improvements.
Financial products
If you will be meeting your care costs as a self-funder, then it is advisable to speak with a specialist Independent Financial Adviser. They can advise you on specialist care funding products that may help you to cover the cost of care.
Care Concierge
If you would like some expert advice on finding a new care provider, resolving a dispute or exploring funding options then you might benefit from talking with our Care Concierge team.
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Find local help to you
Whether you need some help at home, or want to find out more about Care Homes in your area, our Finding Care tool can help.
Need legal advice?
Solicitors for the Elderly are an independent specialist group of lawyers who support and make a difference to older people. They may be able to help you with Power of Attorney and Deputyship.