Funding

• Your local authority social services may offer assistance if your capital is less than a certain figure. If you think you may be eligible, call your local social services and request a ‘financial assessment’ (means test) to see if they will pay/partially pay for your care. If they do, they will purchase your care on your behalf unless you request otherwise, and are eligible for Direct Payments (see below).

• CHC funding is the name given to a package of care that is arranged and funded solely by your local Primary Care Trust (PCT) on behalf of the NHS, for people that have on-going healthcare needs. Eligibility is assessed, and the criterion to meet is that your primary need is a ‘health’ need. You can ask for an assessment by contacting your GP, social care worker, or your local PCT directly.

• If you have been assessed by social services (see above) as needing care then you may be eligible to receive that help by ‘Direct Payments.’ This means that social services will give you the money and you are therefore able to decide on/buy the services you need yourself (instead of the council doing it for you). It aims to give you greater control and choice over your own care.

• If your capital exceeds the upper threshold set by your local authority you are classified as ‘self-funding’ or seen to be paying for your care ‘privately.’ There are options you may like to consider such as the allowances listed below. Alternatively you may wish to look into a Care Annuity or an Equity Release scheme. Please enquire for further details on these options.

• If you regularly have a live in care worker, you may well be eligible for the higher level of attendance allowance. It is not means tested and you must be over 65 and need help looking after yourself because of a disability or an illness. Receiving it will not affect any other benefits you may claim.
  Please go to www.direct.gov.co.uk for more information or call the Benefit Enquiry Line on 0800 882200.

• This allowance/payment is for the under 65’s who have difficulty with mobility or personal care resulting from a physical/mental disability. It is not means tested.
  Please go to www.direct.gov.co.uk for more information or call the Benefit Enquiry Line on 0800 882200.