Funding Assistance

Who pays the fees?

This is a complex matter, and depends on an individuals circumstances.  The following is a brief guideline only.

If an individual has savings of more than £23,500 then they themselves are likely to pay for the whole cost of our care fees.  Depending upon circumstances, a property may also need to be taken into account. 

If an individual has savings of less than £23,500 and no property then it is advisable to contact the local County Council (Older Peoples Team) where the person lives currently to request individual advice and a full financial assessment. This determines whether they qualify for funding and how much an individual will need to contribute towards their care fees. 

What benefits can I claim?

Attendance Allowance can be claimed by anyone who needs Residential Care, provided that they are paying the full costs themselves. There is a lower rate and a higher rate of Attendance Allowance. The government have the Benefit Enquiry Helpline to offer advice and help with claiming and can be contacted on 0800 88 22 00. This line is open from 8.30am - 6.30pm Monday to Friday and 9am - 1pm on Saturdays. 

Lots of further useful information on both Attendance Allowance and other relevant benefits can also be found at www.direct.gov.uk


Where can I find out more information?

Age UK publish a range of fact sheets on topics connected with the care of elderly people covering issues such as paying for residential care, legal arrangements for managing financial affairs, claiming benefits and related matters. Visit www.ageuk.org.uk and look for their "Facts For You" section, or contact 0800 169 6565.

Where can I get financial advice on the best way to pay fees?

There are a number of companies that offer free specialist advice on ways of funding residential care and have a wealth of information and handy tips. We at Breach House do not recommend any particular company or organisation, but here are the details for some organisations which individuals may follow up should they wish:

• NHFA (Nursing Home Fees Agency) Care advice line on 0800 99 88 33 or visit www.nhfa.co.uk
• Care Aware on 0161 707 1107 or visit www.careaware.co.uk 

Other considerations

We appreciate that the decision to arrange residential care for an individual and their relatives is a difficult time, but in our experience there are various other matters that are worthy of consideration at this time:

• Wills - does your relative have a will or need any assistance in drawing one up?
• Insurance - our home is currently insured with Aviva, but residents may wish to take out their own insurance for personal possessions and valuables which are not covered by this policy. Age UK can arrange basic contents insurance for a small sum, contact the number above for advice.
• Power of Attorney/Enduring Power of Attorney - what happens when a resident is not able to manage their own affairs? Have you considered the options? Breach House are not able to offer any advice, but many local Solicitors will be able to help and advise and this is well worth arranging sooner rather than later.