PAYMENT OPTIONS IN THE CONTEXT OF CARE AND SUPPORT

When confronted with the necessity of seeking care and support, whether for yourself or a family member, it becomes imperative not only to comprehend the available care options but also to navigate the financial dimension of securing the essential assistance.

In contrast to healthcare, social care is not universally free. The majority of individuals must contribute something towards their own care, contingent upon their needs, the type of care required, and their financial circumstances.

Engaging professional advice can aid you and your family in identifying the most suitable and cost-effective solution.

In accordance with the Care Act 2014, councils are mandated to provide residents with information and guidance concerning care charges. Moreover, they are obligated to direct individuals to independent sources of financial advice.

Several organizations offer complimentary, general advice on funding for care and support. These resources serve as excellent starting points for acquiring information and exploring available options:

• The Money Advice Service, contact: 0300 500 5000

• Age UK, contact: 0800 169 6565

• Citizens Advice

• Paying for Care

Eligible individuals have access to various funding avenues, including Adult Services Funding, NHS funding, Direct Payments, and welfare benefits.

If government-funded care is not applicable to your situation, you will be classified as a Private Service User. In this scenario, you will enter into a direct contractual agreement with our services, receiving invoices every four weeks. For your convenience, we can arrange for these invoices to be sent directly to a family member. This option provides you with the freedom to choose from our comprehensive service offerings without the constraints associated with adult services funding.

Here are some external, helpful links for financing care:

• http://www.homecare.co.uk/fees

• www.payingforcare.org

• www.independentlives.org

Direct Payments are a valuable alternative for those receiving social care services and seeking more control over their care. This service empowers you by providing funds directly from the council, allowing you to manage and allocate them to cover your care expenses.

Opting for Direct Payments offers several advantages:

• More choice and control over your care

• Increased independence

• Greater flexibility, allowing your care to align with your chosen lifestyle

• The ability to organize your own care arrangements, provided your assessed needs are met

Managing Direct Payments requires a certain level of capability, either independently or with assistance. If self-management isn't feasible, you can nominate someone else to handle your payments. In cases where Direct Payments may not be offered by the council, they will provide guidance. Additionally, services like Independent Lives (accessible at www.independentlives.org) are available to assist in managing your Direct Payments—offering further information on this option