Care Funding
Make an informed decision about homecare with our guide to homecare funding and planning
Care Funding
Caring for elderly parents at home can be emotionally rewarding—but financially challenging. Fortunately, in the UK, there are several funding options available to help families manage the costs of home-based care. These funding schemes are designed to support those who are providing care or who need support due to age, illness, or disability. The type of support you’re entitled to will depend on your financial situation, health needs, and whether you are a caregiver or the person being cared for.
This guide outlines key financial support options that may help ease the burden of caregiving. Whether you’re new to the journey or looking to better understand the systems in place, this overview offers a clear explanation of what’s available and how to explore further.
Carer’s Allowance
Best for: People who provide full-time care to a family member or loved one.
You may be eligible for £83.30 per week if you care for someone at least 35 hours a week and they receive qualifying benefits. This allowance is taxable and could affect other benefits you or the person you care for receive.
Must be over 16 and not in full-time education
Earnings must be under £196 per week (after deductions)
You do not have to live with the person you care for
Only one carer can claim for the same person
Carer’s Allowance can also help you build up National Insurance credits and may open the door to further support, such as Council Tax Reduction or Universal Credit.
Attendance Allowance
Best for: Individuals over the State Pension age needing support with personal care.
This non-means-tested benefit provides £73.90 or £110.40 per week, depending on the level of care required. You do not need a formal carer to claim this benefit—it’s available to people who need help or supervision with day-to-day activities due to physical or mental health conditions.
It can also increase eligibility for other financial supports like Pension Credit or Housing Benefit. There is also a fast-track process for those with terminal illnesses.
Social Services Funding
Best for: Those with savings under £23,250 who need support with care costs.
Your local council may help fund care through a Community Care Assessment. If you’re eligible, the council can either:
Organise care on your behalf
Provide you with Direct Payments to arrange your own care
While the funding may not cover the full cost of private homecare services, it offers essential support. Many families choose to “top up” council funding with their own contributions to access a broader choice of care providers.
Personal Health Budgets
Best for: Individuals needing long-term health or social care.
These are NHS-funded budgets that can be managed by:
You (Direct Payments)
A third-party organisation
The NHS directly
This approach offers more flexibility and control, allowing you to tailor care services to your specific needs. You can also choose a mixed method, combining professional management with some self-control over the funds. It’s especially suitable for those with ongoing care needs who want a say in how that care is delivered.
NHS Continuing Care Funding
Best for: People with severe, complex, and ongoing health conditions.
If your care needs are primarily medical (rather than social), you may qualify for free NHS Continuing Healthcare, which covers:
Personal care
Medical support
Equipment or accommodation costs
Eligibility is determined through a formal assessment, and funding is not means-tested. This option is particularly helpful for people transitioning out of hospital or needing specialist care over the long term.
How it works
Your path to personalised care in just a few simple steps.
Need Assistant for your need?
At Orcone Care, we understand that everyone’s needs are unique. Whether it’s support with daily routines, companionship, or specialized care, our team is here to assist you with warmth, respect, and reliability. From a few hours a week to full-time care, we tailor our services to suit your lifestyle—because your comfort and wellbeing come first.
FAQs – Care Funding Service
Several forms of financial support may be available, depending on your situation. These include Carer’s Allowance, Attendance Allowance, Social Services Funding, Personal Health Budgets, and NHS Continuing Care Funding. Each has its own eligibility criteria, and you may qualify for more than one type of support.
Yes, you can claim Carer’s Allowance while working, as long as you earn £196 or less per week (after deductions) and provide at least 35 hours of care. Be aware that this threshold can change, so it’s important to check the most up-to-date guidelines on the government website.
No, Attendance Allowance is not means-tested. Your income or savings will not affect your eligibility. It is available for people over State Pension age who require personal care due to physical or mental health issues.
Personal Health Budgets are funded by the NHS and focus on healthcare needs, giving individuals more control over how their care is provided. Social Services Funding, on the other hand, is means-tested and managed by local councils, covering broader social care needs such as help with daily living.
To find out if you're eligible, you must first go through a screening process followed by a full assessment by healthcare professionals. This funding is typically reserved for individuals with complex, long-term health conditions that require substantial medical care at home or in a care setting.
