Introduction
Caring for a loved one with a medical condition, disability, or age-related issues can be a fulfilling yet demanding responsibility. Many families seek the assistance of professional carers to ensure their loved ones receive the care and support that they need. However, funding for a carer can be a significant concern. As part of our Understanding the Hospital Discharge Process: What to Expect series, this blog will explore the various funding options available for you or your loved one to help cover the costs of a professional carer.
Understanding the Need for Carer Services
Accessing funding for care is essential for ensuring that you or your loved one receive the appropriate care and support to enable them to continue living safely at home. Understanding the various funding options available can significantly alleviate the financial burden associated with employing a professional carer, especially for complex care or live in care.
By exploring these funding avenues, you can tailor the care and support to meet you or your loved one’s specific needs, promoting their well-being and enhancing their quality of life. It is worth checking that you and your loved one are receiving the right support that you are entitled to.
Local Authority Support
Local authorities provide financial assistance to appoint a carer based on your individual needs assessments. The eligibility criteria and level of support can vary depending on where you are located in the UK If you or your loved one is assessed as needing care, you may receive funding to cover part or all the cost of a carer. In some cases, individuals assessed as needing care may receive direct payments from their local authority. These payments offer more control and flexibility in selecting and paying for the carer services that best meet your needs. It allows you to choose your carer and determine the schedule and care plan.
NHS Continuing Healthcare:
In some cases, individuals with significant healthcare needs may qualify for NHS Continuing Healthcare . This comprehensive package covers the full cost of care, including carer services, for individuals with complex medical conditions. To be eligible for NHS continuing healthcare, you must be assessed by a team of healthcare professionals (a multidisciplinary team). Your eligibility for NHS continuing healthcare depends on your assessed needs, not any particular diagnosis or condition.
Carer’s Allowance:
Carer’s Allowance is a government benefit available to individuals providing care to someone with specific needs. To be eligible, you must provide care for at least 35 hours a week and meet certain income and residency requirements. The allowance can help ease the financial burden of caring for a loved one.
Charities and Non-Profit Organisations
Many charitable organisations in the UK offer financial assistance and support for carer services. These organisations focus on specific medical conditions or disabilities and can provide valuable resources and funding for those individuals who need it.
Private Funding
If you do not qualify for public funding or prefer to have more control over the selection of carer services, you can choose to fund care privately. This option allows you to select a carer or care agency of your choice and customise the level and type of care provided
Follow our blog series, centred around preparing for care at home, following hospital discharge.
