Funding Live-in Care in Cambridgeshire

Live-in care, where a carer provides 24-hour support in the comfort of your own home, is a growing trend in Cambridgeshire and across the UK. However, care of this nature can be costly, and for many, the financial responsibility may seem overwhelming. In this guide, we explore the primary sources of funding for live-in care, providing comprehensive details on how to navigate each option.

Live-in Care in Cambridgeshire

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Council Funding for Live-in Care

Many people are not aware that the local authority might be able to provide financial support towards care costs. This support is means-tested, which means the level of assistance you qualify for depends on your personal circumstances including your income, savings, and property assets.

To begin the process for council funding, the first step is to request a care and support needs assessment from the Cambridgeshire local authority. This allows the council to determine the level of care you require and whether you qualify for financial support.

The assessment is crucial in identifying not only your care needs but also the non-care related support necessary for your wellbeing. Services like home modifications, day programs, or assistance with chores are sometimes included in support packages.

Remember, you can learn more about the care needs assessment and how to request one here.

NHS Continuing Healthcare

NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) is a package of care arranged and funded by the NHS for individuals who have significant ongoing healthcare needs. This is an excellent resource if you, or your loved one, have long-term complex health conditions.

CHC covers all care costs, including personal and healthcare requirements. It can be used to fund full-time live-in care, making it a vital resource against the cost of live-in care in Cambridgeshire.

An essential aspect of CHC is that eligibility is not means-tested, but instead, it is based on 'primary health need' as determined by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals.

Applying for CHC can be complex; it involves a preliminary checklist assessment, followed by a more detailed Decision Support Tool if the initial screening indicates potential eligibility.

In Cambridgeshire, the process is managed by the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough integrated commissioning board. Detailed information about CHC, including how to initiate an assessment, can be found on the commissioning board’s website.

NHS CHC can significantly reduce the financial strain, making it somewhat easier to find the best live-in carers in Cambridgeshire.

Private Funding

In some cases, individuals may choose to fund their live-in care privately. This might be because they do not qualify for council funding or NHS CHC, or it may be a personal choice made for increased control over the care they receive.

If you choose self-funding, it is crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of the financial commitment. This approach requires thorough planning to ensure the cost of care is sustainable in the long term.

Locating affordable and high-quality care can be a challenge. To aid in this search, we have a complete guide to self-funding care that delves into strategies and provides guidance on how to manage self-funded care.

If you're considering live-in care in Cambridgeshire, it's helpful to have an estimate of the cost. Here's where you can find information regarding the cost of live-in care in Cambridgeshire.

Brace for the Care Journey

Understanding how to fund live-in care creates a more straightforward path to receiving the support you need. Whether you apply for council funding, NHS CHC, or decide to self-fund, remember that well-informed decisions ease the process.

While navigating the complex realm of care funding in Cambridgeshire can seem daunting, remember, you're not alone. Consider the resources and links referenced in this article as your compass, guiding you through your journey to arrange and fund live-in care that suits you.

Prepare for the journey, knowing it may be complex but with the right information, it will be manageable. As you embark on this process, just remember you're not alone. Whether assessed as needing council-funded care, applying for NHS continuing healthcare, or choosing to privately fund your care, you are in control. It's all about getting the care you need, in the place you feel the most comfortable. Good luck on your journey!