Can the Local Council Pay for Domiciliary Care? Funding and Eligibility

Category Active well-being for seniors

Can the Local Council Pay for Domiciliary Care? Funding and Eligibility

For many older adults and families, the cost of domiciliary care can feel overwhelming. However, local councils in the UK can help pay for home care if certain criteria are met. Support may be provided either by covering part of the cost or, in some cases, paying for all of it.

This guide explains how funding works, who is eligible, how assessments are carried out, and what to expect during the application process.

What Is Council-Funded Domiciliary Care?

Find YOUR ideal care home NOW!

Council-funded domiciliary care refers to financial assistance provided by your local authority to help pay for care and support delivered at home. This may include:

- Personal care (washing, dressing, toileting)
- Help with meals and hydration
- Mobility and transfer assistance
- Support with medication
- Domestic help such as cleaning and laundry
- Companionship and safety monitoring

Funding levels vary depending on care needs and financial circumstances.

How Eligibility Is Assessed

To determine whether funding is available, two assessments take place:

1. Care Needs Assessment

This examines what support is required for daily living.
It is free and available to every UK resident.

2. Financial Assessment (Means Test)

This determines whether the council will: Pay the full cost, Pay part of the cost, or Expect the individual to self-fund.

What the Financial Assessment Looks At

Local authorities review:

- Income (pensions, benefits, savings interest)
- Savings and assets
- Any ongoing expenses or disability-related costs

Homeowners can still access domiciliary care funding, as the value of your main residence is not counted for home care means assessments.

Summary of Funding Outcomes

Financial Situation	Funding Outcome	What It Means
Low income / low savings	Full or majority council funding	The council may cover most or all home care costs.
Moderate savings or income	Partial contribution	You pay a portion, and the council covers the rest.
High savings or income	Self-funding	You pay for your own care but can still request support planning.

Direct Payments Option

If eligible for funding, you may choose to receive the money as Direct Payments, which allows you to:

Hire your own carers
Arrange personalised support schedules
Maintain more control over your care plan

This can be especially beneficial when routine and familiarity are important.

How to Apply

Contact your local council and request a Care Needs Assessment.
A professional will visit you to understand your daily challenges.
If eligible, you will then complete a Financial Assessment.
A personalised care and support plan is created.
Funding is then arranged either through:
- - Council-organised care, or
- - Direct Payments to manage your own care.

FAQ – Optimised for Search

Is the Care Needs Assessment free?

Yes. Every UK resident is entitled to a free assessment, regardless of income or savings.

Does owning a home stop me from getting help?

No. The value of your primary residence is not included when assessing eligibility for home care support.

Can the council fully pay for my care?

Yes, if both your care needs and financial situation meet eligibility thresholds.

What if I want to choose my own carer?

You can request Direct Payments, giving you flexibility to arrange care independently.

Need help finding a care home?

Senior Home Plus offers free personalized guidance to help you find a care facility that suits your health needs, budget, and preferred location in the UK.

Call us at 0203 608 0055 to get expert assistance today.