At Gifted Hands Home Care, we understand that arranging home care also means making important financial decisions. One of the first questions many families ask is:
“How will we pay for care?”

In the UK, home care can be funded either privately (self-funded) or through Local Authority support—sometimes a mix of both. This guide will help you understand the key differences and what to expect.

🏦 Private Pay (Self-Funded Care)

Private Pay means you or your family pay for the cost of care directly. This option offers greater flexibility and choice, especially if you:

• Have savings or assets above the financial threshold for local authority help
• Prefer a provider of your choice (such as Gifted Hands Home Care)
• Want more control over the type and timing of your care services

Benefits of Private Pay:

• Quick access to care—no lengthy assessments or waiting lists
• Freedom to choose your provider and customise services
• Full control over your care plan and schedule

How it works at Gifted Hands:

• We offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees
• Mileage costs for carers are charged at £0.45 per mile
• A detailed price list is available upon request from our office

🏛️ Local Authority Support

You may be eligible for funded home care from your Local Authority (Council) depending on:

• Your care needs (assessed via a Care Needs Assessment)
• Your financial situation (evaluated through a Financial Assessment)

Steps to Apply:

1. Contact your local council for a Care Needs Assessment
2. If eligible, you’ll be offered either:
   • Services arranged by the council, or
   • Direct Payments (money given to you so you can arrange your own care)

Benefits of Local Authority Funding:

• Helps reduce or cover the cost of care
• Direct Payments allow you to choose your preferred provider (like Gifted Hands)
• Support and guidance during the assessment process

Things to Know:

• If your savings are above £23,250 (England), you will likely be expected to self-fund
• You can still request Direct Payments if you wish to stay with a provider you trust

🔄 Combined Approach

Many families choose to combine Local Authority funding with private pay, especially if their needs exceed what the council can provide. This can give you:

• More hours of care than council funding alone
• More say in the care you receive

📋 Need Help Understanding Your Options?

At Gifted Hands Home Care, we’re happy to guide you through the process—whether you’re paying privately or seeking local authority support. We can help you:

• Understand your entitlements
• Prepare for assessments
• Make informed financial choices

📞 Talk to Us Today

Need more information about care funding? We’re just a call or email away.

📧 info@giftedhandshomecare.co.uk
📞 01403 458894

Quality care should be accessible, transparent, and right for you. Let us help you find the best way forward.