The landscape of care funding in England is genuinely complex — and navigating it at a stressful time in your life can feel overwhelming. This guide aims to explain the main options clearly, without the jargon, so you can have more informed conversations with your local authority, GP and care provider.
Local authority funding
If you have care needs, your local council has a legal duty to carry out a care needs assessment — this is free and separate from any financial assessment. If the assessment identifies eligible needs, the council will then carry out a means test to determine how much they'll contribute to the cost of your care. The upper capital limit (above which you fund your own care) is currently £23,250 in England.
If the council does contribute, you'll typically receive a personal budget — the amount they'll pay toward your care. You can take this as a direct payment, giving you greater flexibility to choose your own provider, or ask the council to arrange care on your behalf.
NHS Continuing Healthcare
NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) is a package of care arranged and funded entirely by the NHS for adults with complex medical needs. It's not means-tested — eligibility is based entirely on the nature and complexity of your health needs. Many people who could benefit from CHC aren't aware of it, or have been assessed incorrectly. If you think this might apply to you or a family member, ask your GP or care coordinator to refer for a formal assessment.
