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Over half of people living in England (54%) said they would be funding their own care, compared to 41% in Wales, 40% in Northern Ireland and 37% in …

New data has revealed the scale of uncertainty around elderly care funding, as costs continue to rise. But all is not lost there is a range of advice at hand – to get started see our recent blog – Cost comparisons of caring for an elderly relative – which lays out what’s available and from where.

In terms of funding available, carehome.co.uk data reveals a fragmented picture and regional disparities, with over half seeking their care privately.

The data reveals the highest number of self-funders in the UK live in England. Over half of people living in England (54%) said they would be funding their own care, compared to 41% in Wales, 40% in Northern Ireland and 37% in Scotland.

In a further breakdown, the data reveals that private funding dominates in the South, with 63% people from the South East paying for their own care, followed by 61% from the South West.

Local authority funding and top up fees

Comparatively, 13% of people across the UK said they would be able to access local authority funding, with Scotland seeing the highest number of state funded people at 21%.

However, with local authorities under increasing financial pressure, and care home costs soaring, more and more people will have to supplement available local authority funding with their own money.

Top up fees come into play when the chosen care home is too expensive for the council to pay in full, with the care seeker paying the difference between the total cost and the local authority funding. According to carehome.co.uk data, 9% of care seekers were paying an extra top up fee in addition to local authority funding.

For the complete Care Home Professional article and results of the survey see – 1 in 5 care seekers unsure who will pay

Live-in care – giving you independence

Whilst care homes suit the needs of many, the fixed regimen doesn’t suit all. Live-in care offers the flexibility of simple things – eating what you want, going to bed when you want, watching the TV you like, staying with your beloved pet, keeping in touch with the family…

Angel Carers offers you bespoke one-to-one support assistance in your own home on your terms. We provide care that allows you to maintain your individuality and your independence.   

The mental well-being this creates for the elderly is priceless, where familiarity and continuity are particularly important – especially for dementia patients.

Whilst financially on a par with Care Homes, the personalised care you receive with Live-In care is incomparable.

Sue Learner, editor of carehome.co.uk, said:

“Our data shows there is an acute lack of understanding amongst the general public about how the social care system works and how to navigate it. It is incredibly concerning that a significant proportion of care seekers still don’t know who will pay for their care – will it be the council or themselves?

For more details on funding your own care see – Paying for care at home which lays out all your options.

For more details ring us on 01308 429204 or contact us direct – here