Article content
We understand that choosing care can be difficult, which is why Delight Support Services helps make the process as straightforward as possible. When you make contact with us, we provide an approximate quote before undertaking a care assessment to confirm the level and type of care required. Our care packages are tailored to individual needs, and we recommend care calls of a minimum of one hour to ensure the highest quality of support.
If you are arranging care for yourself or a loved one over the age of 18, you may be entitled to additional financial support. The following funding options may be available.
Attendance Allowance
Those aged 65 or over who need help with personal care due to physical or mental disability can apply for Attendance Allowance. This is a tax-free government benefit that is not means-tested.
- Basic rate (£58.70 per week) — for those who need frequent help or constant supervision during the day, or supervision at night.
- Higher rate (£87.65 per week) — for those who need help and supervision throughout both day and night, or who are living with a terminal illness.
- People aged under 65 may be eligible for Personal Independence Payments instead, ranging from £23.20 to £148.85 per week.
Carer's Allowance
You could receive £76.75 per week if you care for someone for at least 35 hours a week and they receive certain qualifying benefits. You do not have to be related to or live with the person you care for. Note that Carer's Allowance can affect other benefits you or the person you care for receive, and it is taxable above the Personal Allowance.
Social Services Funding
Social Services Funding is available if the person needing care has savings below £23,250 (the upper capital limit). From October 2025, this threshold will rise to £100,000. The maximum hourly rate funded by local authorities varies and may not cover the full cost of your chosen provider. However, under the Direct Payments initiative, the money can be paid directly into your account and topped up from your own savings, giving you greater choice and control over your care.
How Savings Affect Home Care Charges
- You will not be entitled to council help if savings exceed £23,250 (rising to £100,000 from October 2025).
- From October 2023, individuals in England will only pay up to £86,000 in personal care costs over their lifetime — the government covers costs beyond that threshold.
- The lower asset threshold will increase from £14,250 to £20,000, with a sliding scale of contributions for those with assets between £20,000 and £100,000.
Personal Health Budgets
A personal health budget is an amount of NHS money allocated to support an individual's health and wellbeing needs. Working with a local NHS team, the recipient plans how the money is spent to get the care they need. Personal health budgets are fully funded by the NHS and cannot be topped up.
NHS Continuing Care Funding
If you have a complex health care issue resulting from disability, accident, or illness, you may qualify for free NHS Continuing Care. This can cover a range of home care agency and personal care costs. Eligibility involves an initial screening followed by a full assessment by healthcare professionals involved in your care. If you do not qualify initially, you can request a review through your GP or social worker if circumstances change.
If you have questions about the cost of home care, contact Delight Support Services today. We can guide you through the options available and help you navigate the funding landscape.