Funding Live-in Care in Harrow

Navigating the world of care funding can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to financing live-in care. This article is here to simplify the process, focussing particularly on how to finance live-in care in Harrow.

Live-in Care in Harrow

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Introduction to Funding Live-in Care

Live-in care has numerous benefits, providing tailored care on a round-the-clock basis within the familiar surroundings of one's home. The cost, which is significant, can be a major concern for many people. However, multiple funding sources are available, which we will explore below.

Council Funding

Local authorities (LA) play a critical role in funding care. Should your care needs be determined to be sufficiently high and your savings fall below £23,250, the Harrow LA may provide financial assistance.

How Council Funding Works

To receive council funding, you must first undertake a financial means test. This assessment examines both your capital (savings and property) and income (pensions, benefits). If your assets are valued at more than £23,250, you will likely need to cover the full cost of your care, though there may be exceptions.

Once your means test is complete, the Harrow LA can then devise a detailed care plan that reflects your assessed needs. According to the cost of your care and financial situation, the council may pay a part or the entire cost of your care.

You might still be asked to contribute some part of your income towards your care even if the Harrow LA takes responsibility for it. This contribution should not leave you

First Steps for Council Funding

If you think you might qualify for council funding, your first step is to contact the Harrow Local Authority to arrange a needs assessment and a financial means test.

For additional details, you could visit the Harrow local authority's website here.

NHS Continuing Care

NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) is another form of funding live-in care in Harrow. It is a package of care provided outside of hospital, arranged and funded fully by the NHS for those with complex, ongoing healthcare needs.

How NHS Continuing Care Works

The first step to getting NHS continuing healthcare is to have a 'checklist assessment'. If you meet the criteria, you’ll go on to have a full assessment by a multidisciplinary team. To be eligible for CHC, it must be demonstrated that you have a 'primary health need'.

A personalised care and support plan will be developed if you are found to have a primary health need.

First Steps for NHS Continuing Care

Speak to your GP or social worker if you think NHS CHC might be suitable for you. They'll be able to explain the process and apply for an initial checklist assessment.

Further information about NHS continuing healthcare can be found here.

The North West London integrated commissioning boards handle the assessment procedure for NHS CHC, not CCGs, which no longer exist.

Private Funding

If you are not eligible for funding from the council or the NHS, it's not the end of the road. It's still possible to pay for live-in care privately, usually through personal savings or by releasing equity from your house.

How Private Funding Works

When self-funding, the major consideration is the cost of live-in care in Harrow. With private funding, you directly pay the care provider and have more control over your care. There are no upper limits to assets or savings with self-funded care.

First Steps for Private Funding

The first step in private funding is to find out exactly how much care costs in your area. A great resource for this would be our Complete Guide to Self-Funding Care.

Private funding, whilst initially straightforward, can deplete savings quickly. Therefore, it's a good idea to talk with a financial advisor to understand how it might impact your long-term financial health.

Conclusion

Funding live-in care in Harrow may initially seem a daunting task, but once you understand the basics of council funding, NHS continuing healthcare, and private funding, the process becomes clearer.

No matter how complex your situation, always seek advice, whether from Harrow LA, your GP or a financial advisor. Our Complete Guide to Live-in Care offers valuable insights, while also highlighting the top live-in carers in Harrow to fit your needs.

The cost should not be the only determinant of quality care. There are plenty of resources and options to explore. Provide the best possible care for yourself or a loved one, because you're worth it!