Various types of government funding for home care are available, but understanding them and knowing how to access them can make exploring care services for your loved ones less overwhelming.
This guide aims to give families in Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire an overview of the most common government-funded support options for home care. Hopefully, it will give you peace of mind knowing that support is accessible.
Government Funding for Home Care: Starting the Journey
All government-funded home care support begins by arranging a needs assessment with your loved one’s local council.
The local authority plays a crucial role in this process, as they are responsible for evaluating the level of care and support required, considering both physical and mental health needs, and determining the level and type of care required, focusing on both physical and mental health needs. It establishes eligibility for government-funded care, leading to a tailored care plan for your loved one.
Financial Support: Making Care Affordable
Financial support for home care begins with a financial assessment, conducted after the needs assessment, to determine your ability to contribute toward care costs based on income, savings, and assets. Those with an income below £12,000 per year and savings under £23,250 may be eligible for full financial assistance.
The assessment determines whether you need to contribute to your care, and your council will provide a personal care budget outlining any costs and the support available. For more information, visit GOV.UK.
Direct Payments: Empowering Families
For those qualifying, direct payments provide an avenue to manage care independently, offering flexibility in choosing care providers. While it comes with its responsibilities, such as hiring and managing carers, it grants families control over their caregiving approaches.
Learn more about direct payments on the NHS website
Attendance Allowance: Supporting Older Individuals
Attendance Allowance supports individuals over State Pension age who need personal care due to disabilities or illnesses. This benefit is available at two rates, depending on the level of care needed.
To be eligible, applicants must be over State Pension age and have required personal care assistance for at least six months.
Carer’s Allowance: Recognising Family Carers
Carer’s Allowance provides financial support to family members caring for someone for 35 or more hours per week. Eligibility includes meeting income limits and being mindful of how overlapping benefits may affect payments.
The allowance offers a weekly payment, but certain other benefits may impact the amount received. For more information, visit the GOV.UK Carer’s Allowance page
Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
While most Premier Community Service Users are over the State Pension age, financial support for disabled individuals under this age can be sought through Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
DLA is for children and young adults under 16 with care or mobility needs and has two components. PIP is for adults aged 16 to State Pension age with long-term health conditions or disabilities, also offering two components: daily living and mobility. For more information, visit the GOV.UK Disability Living Allowance page and PIP page
NHS Continuing Healthcare
Council Tax Reduction
Individuals receiving home care may also be eligible for a council tax reduction, which can help ease financial burdens.
Eligibility includes receiving certain disability benefits or having a home adapted for a disabled person. To apply, contact your local authority and provide the necessary documents, such as proof of benefits and details of property adaptations. For more information, visit the GOV.UK Council Tax Reduction page.
Conclusion
From local authority funding and direct payments to benefits like Attendance Allowance and Carer’s Allowance, there are numerous resources to assist with home care costs. Navigating these options may seem daunting, but early planning and thorough research can help ensure that you or your loved one receives the necessary care without undue financial stress.
For more detailed advice and assistance with applying for government-funded support for home care services, contact our experienced team at Premier Community. With over 28 years of experience providing compassionate and professional care, we are here to help you navigate the complexities of home care funding and provide the support and care you need. Contact us today for an informal chat, and let us help you secure the best care solutions for your needs.
