Working out how to pay for care is one of the first questions families ask us. The good news is that there are several options, and you may be entitled to more help than you think.

1. Paying privately

Many people choose to arrange and pay for their care directly. This gives you the most choice over who provides your care, when visits happen and how your support is organised. You can start, change or stop care as your needs change.

2. Help from your local council

Kent County Council and Surrey County Council can carry out a free care needs assessment. If you are eligible for support, they will also look at your income and savings in a financial assessment to work out how much, if anything, you need to contribute.

3. Direct payments

If the council agrees to fund some or all of your care, you can ask for a direct payment. This lets you choose your own care provider, such as SAP Care, instead of one arranged for you.

4. Attendance Allowance and other benefits

Attendance Allowance is a benefit for people over State Pension age who need help with personal care because of an illness or disability. It is not means-tested, so your savings do not affect it. Younger adults may be able to claim Personal Independence Payment (PIP). Age UK and Citizens Advice can help you check what you are entitled to.

5. NHS Continuing Healthcare

If someone has significant ongoing health needs, the NHS may fund their care in full through NHS Continuing Healthcare. Ask your GP or hospital team about an assessment.

Talk to us

We are happy to talk through your options at a free, no-obligation home assessment. Request a call back or call our Kent office on 01732 807 121 or our Surrey office on 01737 237 527.