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About
Locations
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Find Care
Become a Carer
Caring for a loved one's well-being is no small task, particularly as they age or need round-the-clock care. Financial concern should not become a limiting factor under these circumstances. Funding is available from various sources, and understanding each provides the ability to choose the best viable option tailored to individual needs. Our discussion here would focus on the three main sources of funding: Council Funding, NHS Continuing Care, and Private Funding.
Also known as Local Authority Funding; this is a means of financial support provided by the local council to those who require care. In our case, the Westminster local council is the relevant authority.
The local council undertakes a means-tested assessment process to decide who receives council funding. It considers both the care needs and the individual’s financial situation. The assessment determines if a person's savings and assets fall below a pre-set threshold. If that's the case, you can qualify for council funding.
The amount provided varies based on need: some might receive part-funding, and others with more severe requirements may get full-funding. Remember, this funding is not a loan – you do not have to repay the local council.
You need to approach the Westminster local council and request an assessment. You can find more information and the process for requesting an assessment on the Westminster local council's website. It is essential to have information about the person needing care, such as their care needs, financial circumstance, and health condition.
Read more on our Complete Guide to Local Authority Funding.
NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) is a funding programme run by the NHS for people with complex, significant, and ongoing healthcare needs. Unlike Council Funding, NHS Continuing Care is not means-tested; it focuses entirely on care needs.
To qualify for CHC, a person must undergo an assessment by a multifaceted team of healthcare professionals designated by the NHS. After conducting an initial checklist assessment, the NHS team conducts the Decision Support Tool (DST) assessment. The DST focuses on 12 care areas to identify whether the individual's needs are complex, severe, or unpredictable to qualify for NHS CHC funding.
The CHC provides funds only for healthcare needs and not social needs (activities of daily living). If approved, the funding will be available both for care at home or in a care home.
You must request a CHC assessment through your GP or social worker. If the person requiring care is in the hospital, the hospital staff can also organise this assessment.
Further details on NHS continuing healthcare can be found at the North West London integrated commissioning board's website.
Our Complete Guide to NHS Continuing Healthcare offers an in-depth look at the process for this funding option.
Private Funding makes sense for those whose assets or incomes are unlikely to meet the thresholds for Council Funding or their care needs do not qualify for NHS CHC funding.
To privately fund care, one must use personal savings, pensions, or sale of assets. It is worth noting that financial advice from care funding specialists can be valuable in this scenario, ensuring care costs are adequately met over the long term.
If you choose the private funding route, having a budget plan is crucial to understand the long-term implications.
Learn more about this method of paying for care with our Complete Guide to Self-Funding Care.
Navigating the maze of funding care can be daunting, but with the right information, you can find the most suitable option. Appropriate funding allows for the necessary Live-In Care in Westminster, collapsing geographical barriers and best serving your loved one's requirements. Whether you're considering Council Funding, NHS Continuing care, or Private Funding, ensure you explore all options, understand the processes involved, and commit to your family's sustained wellness. Be sure to also check what the Cost of Live-In Care in Westminster generally is and opt for the best Live-In Carers in Westminster for optimal support.
James Bowdler
Author
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