In this guide, you’ll learn the key considerations, work through a practical example and find useful next steps. Take your time and use the free worksheets to put ideas into practice.
What you’ll take away
- Start with a needs assessment
- Ask about NHS Continuing Healthcare
- Understand the financial assessment
Start with a needs assessment
Contact your local council adult social care team for a care needs assessment. This is distinct from the financial assessment.
Ask about NHS Continuing Healthcare
For adults with a primary health need, NHS Continuing Healthcare may fund an assessed package of care. Eligibility is needs-based, not means-tested.
Understand the financial assessment
Council charging rules depend on the UK nation and type of care. Check current local rules and thresholds.
Compare the full cost of care
Ask providers about personal care, nursing, accommodation, extras, fee increases and what happens if needs change.
Check benefits and legal authority
Explore Attendance Allowance or other relevant support, and consider whether a lasting power of attorney is needed.
Keep this checklist handy
- Care needs and existing support
- Savings, income, property and benefit information
- Written care provider fee schedules
- Questions for the local authority and NHS team
Putting your learning into practice
Use the guidance above to identify the information you need and the questions to investigate. Consider:
- Start with a needs assessment.
- Ask about NHS Continuing Healthcare.
- Understand the financial assessment.
- Compare the full cost of care.
This is general financial education, not a personal recommendation, an assessment of suitability or an invitation to buy or arrange a financial product. Check current official information and obtain appropriate professional advice for individual circumstances.
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