Paying for care
Paying for care: how funding works
The routes families use to pay for care — council support, NHS funding and private arrangements — and how they fit together.
6 min read
Three main routes
Care is usually paid for by the local council after a financial assessment, by the NHS where the need is primarily a health need, or privately. Many families use a combination — for example council support for personal care with privately funded extra hours.
The financial assessment
If the needs assessment shows you are eligible for support, the council carries out a financial assessment (a means test) to work out what you contribute. Capital thresholds and charging rules change, so always take the current figures from GOV.UK rather than from a directory or a provider.
Get the arrangement in writing
Whichever route applies, ask for a written statement of what is included, what is charged separately, how notice works and how fees change. CareLink asks providers to publish indicative pricing, but the contract you sign with the provider is what governs the cost.
Official sources
- GOV.UK — Help from your local council with social care
- GOV.UK — Paying for your own care and support
- NHS — Social care and support guide
Guidance only — it isn't financial or legal advice, and rules and figures change. Always check the official source or speak to an adviser.