Home Care Funding Options

Expert Guidance Through the Care Funding Process

Understanding care funding can feel overwhelming. Families are often faced with complex decisions at an already stressful time, with little clarity around eligibility, timescales or the financial implications of different funding routes. At Cura Homecare, we specialise in helping families navigate the care funding system clearly, confidently and efficiently.

Our team has extensive experience supporting families through NHS Continuing Healthcare, local authority funding, Direct Payments and private care options. We understand how these systems work, where delays commonly occur, and how to move applications forward quickly while ensuring families fully understand their choices.

Helping You Access Funding Quickly and Correctly

Delays in funding decisions can result in unnecessary stress, inappropriate care arrangements or avoidable financial pressure. By working with Cura Homecare, families benefit from early guidance that helps ensure applications are started correctly from the outset.

We help families:

  • Understand which funding routes may apply

  • Prepare for assessments and reviews

  • Identify when NHS or council funding should be considered

  • Avoid common mistakes that delay decisions

  • Put care in place quickly while funding is assessed

Our proactive approach helps reduce uncertainty and ensures care needs are met without unnecessary disruption.

Making the Most of Your Options

Care funding is not one-size-fits-all. Many families are unaware of the full range of options available to them or how different funding routes can interact. We take time to explain each option clearly, helping families make informed decisions based on their individual circumstances.

This includes guidance on:

  • NHS-funded versus means-tested care

  • Direct Payments and flexible care arrangements

  • Short-term private care while funding is reviewed

  • Understanding how assets and savings may be considered

While we do not provide legal or financial advice, we help families understand the practical implications of funding decisions and when specialist advice may be beneficial.

Free Support Throughout the Funding Journey

Cura Homecare offers a free, no-obligation support service to families navigating the care funding process. From the first conversation through to funding decisions being made, our team remains available to guide, explain and support.

Our free support includes:

  • Initial funding guidance and signposting

  • Ongoing support during assessments

  • Clear explanations of decisions and next steps

  • Help coordinating care while funding is arranged

  • Continued support as needs or funding change

Our aim is to remove confusion, reduce stress and ensure families feel informed and supported every step of the way.

A Trusted Partner in Care and Funding

At Cura Homecare, we believe families deserve clear information, honest guidance and compassionate support — not pressure or uncertainty. By combining funding expertise with high-quality care delivery, we help families move forward with confidence, knowing they are making the best possible decisions for their loved ones.

Understanding Care Funding Types

Which options are avaliable for your family

NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) – What You Need to Know

NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) is a package of care that is fully funded by the NHS for individuals with complex, ongoing health needs. If a person is eligible, the NHS covers the full cost of care, including care provided in the individual’s own home.

Unlike local authority funding, CHC is not means-tested. This means savings, property ownership and income are not taken into account. Eligibility is based solely on a person’s health needs, not their financial situation.

Who Is Eligible for NHS Continuing Healthcare?

Eligibility for CHC is determined by whether a person has a primary health need. This is assessed by healthcare professionals using a nationally recognised framework that looks at the nature, complexity, intensity and unpredictability of a person’s needs.

People who may be eligible for CHC often include those with:

  • Complex medical conditions

  • Advanced dementia or Alzheimer’s disease

  • Severe physical disabilities

  • Long-term neurological conditions

  • Palliative or end-of-life care needs

  • Multiple ongoing health conditions requiring regular intervention

Eligibility is not diagnosis-based. Two people with the same condition may receive different outcomes depending on their individual needs.

How the CHC Assessment Process Works

The CHC process usually involves two main stages:

1. Initial Checklist Assessment
This is a screening tool used to decide whether a full CHC assessment should take place. A positive checklist result leads to the next stage.

2. Full Assessment (Decision Support Tool)
A multidisciplinary team assesses needs across several domains, including:

  • Mobility

  • Cognition

  • Behaviour

  • Communication

  • Nutrition

  • Continence

  • Skin integrity

  • Breathing

  • Medication and symptom control

Based on this assessment, a recommendation is made to the local Integrated Care Board (ICB), which makes the final funding decision.

The process can feel complex and overwhelming for families — particularly when decisions are needed quickly.

How Cura Homecare Supports Families with CHC

At Cura Homecare, we have extensive experience supporting individuals and families through the NHS Continuing Healthcare process. We understand how the system works and what evidence is required to demonstrate eligibility.

We support families by:

  • Explaining CHC clearly and honestly

  • Helping prepare for assessments

  • Identifying when CHC should be considered

  • Supporting families during fast-track and urgent cases

  • Liaising with healthcare professionals where appropriate

  • Putting care in place quickly once funding is approved

In urgent situations — including end-of-life care — Fast Track CHC funding may be available. We are experienced in supporting families to access fast-track funding so care can begin without unnecessary delay.

Why Choose Cura Homecare for CHC-Funded Care?

Families trust Cura Homecare because we combine expert knowledge of CHC funding with high-quality, compassionate care delivery. We understand the pressure families are under and work efficiently to ensure support is put in place as quickly as possible.

With Cura Homecare, you benefit from:

  • Clear guidance through the CHC process

  • Experienced care professionals

  • Care delivered in the comfort of home

  • Support that adapts as needs change

  • A team that advocates for the individual and family

Speak to Our Team About NHS Continuing Healthcare

If you believe you or a loved one may be eligible for NHS Continuing Healthcare — or if you are unsure where to start — our knowledgeable team is here to help.

We can explain the process, answer your questions and support you in accessing funding quickly and appropriately.

📞 Call 01249 599124 to speak with Cura Homecare today.

Council (Local Authority) Funding – What You Need to Know

Council funding, sometimes referred to as local authority funding, is support provided by your local council to help cover the cost of care when a person has eligible care needs but does not qualify for NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC).

In our area, adult social care funding is administered by Wiltshire Council, which is responsible for assessing care needs, arranging support and determining financial contributions for people living in Chippenham, Wiltshire and surrounding areas.

Who Is Eligible for Council-Funded Care?

Eligibility for council funding is based on two key assessments:

1. Care Needs Assessment
The council assesses whether a person has eligible needs under the Care Act 2014. This looks at how a person’s health or circumstances affect their ability to manage daily life, including:

  • Personal care

  • Mobility and safety

  • Nutrition and hydration

  • Managing medication

  • Emotional wellbeing

  • Ability to maintain independence

2. Financial Assessment (Means Test)
If eligible needs are identified, the council will carry out a financial assessment to determine how much the individual contributes towards their care. This assessment considers:

  • Savings and assets

  • Income (such as pensions or benefits)

  • Property ownership (in certain circumstances)

Unlike NHS Continuing Healthcare, council funding is means-tested.

What Can Council Funding Be Used For?

If approved, council funding can contribute towards care delivered at home, including:

  • Personal care and daily living support

  • Respite care

  • Companionship support

  • Night care

  • Specialist and complex care needs

Funding may cover all or part of the care costs, depending on the outcome of the financial assessment.

The Local Authority Assessment Process

The council funding process typically involves:

  • An initial referral to Adult Social Care

  • A care needs assessment

  • A financial assessment

  • Agreement of a care and support plan

This process can take time and can feel confusing or stressful for families — particularly when care is needed urgently or circumstances are changing quickly.

How Cura Homecare Supports Families with Council Funding

At Cura Homecare, we have extensive experience supporting families through the Wiltshire Council adult social care process. We understand how local authority funding works and how to navigate assessments efficiently.

We support families by:

  • Explaining council funding clearly and honestly

  • Helping families understand eligibility and next steps

  • Supporting communication with Wiltshire Council

  • Advising on care options while funding is arranged

  • Putting private or interim care in place if needed

  • Transitioning smoothly once council funding is approved

Our goal is to reduce delays and stress, ensuring individuals receive the care they need as quickly as possible.

Local Councils We Work With

Our primary local authority is:

  • Wiltshire Council – Adult Social Care

We also support individuals and families who may fall under neighbouring local authorities where applicable, ensuring continuity of care across boundaries when required.

Why Choose Cura Homecare for Council-Funded Care?

Families choose Cura Homecare because we combine local authority funding knowledge with high-quality, compassionate care delivery. We understand the system, the pressures families face, and how to move things forward efficiently.

With Cura Homecare, you benefit from:

  • Clear guidance through council funding assessments

  • Local knowledge of Wiltshire Council processes

  • Flexible care that adapts as funding decisions change

  • A trusted team focused on speed, clarity and quality

Speak to Our Team About Council Funding

If you believe you or a loved one may be eligible for council-funded care — or if you’re unsure how to begin — our experienced team is here to help.

We can guide you through the process and help ensure care is put in place without unnecessary delay.

📞 Call 01249 599124 to speak with Cura Homecare today.

Direct Payments – Council Funding Paid Directly to You

Direct Payments are a way of receiving council-funded care where the local authority pays money directly to you, rather than arranging services on your behalf. This gives individuals and families greater choice, control and flexibility over how care is delivered.

In our area, Direct Payments are administered by Wiltshire Council as part of their adult social care support for people living in Chippenham, Wiltshire and surrounding areas.

Who Can Receive Direct Payments?

Direct Payments may be offered following a Care Act needs assessment by Wiltshire Council. You may be eligible if:

  • You have eligible care needs under the Care Act 2014

  • You are assessed as suitable to manage Direct Payments (with support if needed)

  • You choose Direct Payments instead of council-arranged care

Direct Payments can be used by:

  • Adults needing care and support

  • Parents or guardians of children with additional needs

  • Individuals acting through a nominated or authorised person

How Direct Payments Work

Once approved, Wiltshire Council pays an agreed amount of money into a separate bank account. This funding must be used solely for care and support outlined in your care plan.

Direct Payments can be used to:

  • Arrange homecare services with an approved provider

  • Choose visit times and care routines

  • Maintain continuity with a trusted care team

  • Increase or reduce care flexibly as needs change

You are required to keep basic records showing how the funds are used, but support is available to help manage this.

How Cura Homecare Supports Direct Payments

At Cura Homecare, we regularly support individuals and families using Direct Payments. We understand the local authority requirements and help make the process as straightforward as possible.

We support families by:

  • Explaining Direct Payments clearly and honestly

  • Helping you decide if Direct Payments are right for you

  • Assisting with setting up care quickly once approved

  • Providing care that aligns with council care plans

  • Working alongside council-approved payroll or support services where needed

Our team ensures care starts promptly and continues smoothly, without unnecessary delays or confusion.

Local Council Support

Direct Payments in our area are overseen by:

  • Wiltshire Council – Adult Social Care

We work closely within local frameworks to ensure care delivery meets council requirements while remaining flexible and person-centred.

Why Choose Cura Homecare for Direct Payments?

Families choose Cura Homecare because we combine local authority funding expertise with reliable, high-quality care delivery. We help you stay in control while removing the stress often associated with managing funded care.

With Cura Homecare, you benefit from:

  • Expert guidance on Direct Payments

  • Flexible, person-centred care delivery

  • Clear communication and transparent invoicing

  • Support that adapts as funding or needs change

Speak to Our Team About Direct Payments

If you have been offered Direct Payments or would like to explore this option, our experienced team is here to help.

We can explain how it works, guide you through next steps, and help put care in place quickly and smoothly.

📞 Call 01249 599124 to speak with Cura Homecare today.

Private (Self-Funded) Care – Paying Privately

Private (self-funded) care is when individuals or families pay directly for care services, rather than relying on NHS or local authority funding. This option offers the greatest flexibility and is often used when care is needed urgently, or while funding assessments are ongoing.

Many families choose private care temporarily while waiting for decisions on NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) or Wiltshire Council funding, ensuring support is in place without delay.

Who Is Private Care Suitable For?

Private care may be the right option if:

  • Care is needed immediately

  • Funding assessments are still in progress

  • You are not eligible for council or NHS funding

  • You wish to top up funded care with additional support

  • You want greater flexibility and control over care arrangements

Private care can be short-term, long-term or used as a bridging solution until funding is confirmed.

How Private Care Works

With private care, services are arranged directly with Cura Homecare following a care assessment. Care plans are fully personalised and can be adjusted at any time.

Private care can include:

  • Homecare and personal support

  • Complex or specialist care

  • Children’s care

  • Night care and respite care

  • Companionship and wellbeing support

Care can be increased, reduced or changed as circumstances evolve.

Using Private Care While Funding Is Assessed

Many families use private care while waiting for:

  • NHS Continuing Healthcare decisions

  • Council care needs or financial assessments

  • Direct Payments to be set up

At Cura Homecare, we regularly support families through this transition. Once funding is approved, we help ensure care continues seamlessly, avoiding disruption or unnecessary stress.

How Cura Homecare Supports Private Care

We understand that arranging private care can feel daunting, especially during stressful times. Our experienced team works quickly and sensitively to put support in place.

We support families by:

  • Carrying out rapid care assessments

  • Starting care quickly when needed

  • Providing clear, transparent pricing

  • Offering flexible care arrangements

  • Supporting transitions to funded care where applicable

Our focus is always on getting the right care in place without delay.

Why Choose Cura Homecare for Private Care?

Families choose Cura Homecare for private care because we combine speed, flexibility and compassion with high professional standards.

With Cura Homecare, you benefit from:

  • Fast access to care when it’s needed most

  • Flexible, personalised care plans

  • Clear communication and no hidden costs

  • Continuity of care during funding transitions

  • Experienced, trusted care professionals

Speak to Our Team About Private Care

If you are considering private care — whether short-term or ongoing — our friendly team is here to help.

We can explain your options, discuss costs and arrange care quickly and sensitively.

📞 Call 01249 599124 to speak with Cura Homecare today.

Why Families Choose Cura Homecare

At Cura Homecare, we provide high-quality, person-centred homecare that enables people to live safely, comfortably and independently in their own homes. We believe care should feel reassuring, respectful and tailored — never rushed or impersonal. Our approach focuses on supporting everyday life while protecting dignity, choice and independence.

We take time to understand each individual before care begins, working closely with families to create flexible care plans that adapt as needs change. Whether support is needed occasionally or on an ongoing basis, our experienced care team delivers consistent, compassionate care you can rely on.

 

Get In Touch

Local Council Contact Information

Wiltshire Council – Adult Social Care
Telephone: 0300 456 0111
Email: adviceandcontact@wiltshire.gov.uk
Funding and support information: https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/adult-care
Adult care contact page: https://adults.wiltshire.gov.uk/Information/contact-us

Wiltshire Council is the primary local authority for Chippenham and most surrounding areas.

Swindon Borough Council – Adult Social Care
Telephone: 01793 445500
Email: Not publicly listed – contact via phone or online form
Funding and support information: https://www.swindon.gov.uk/info/20011/adult_social_care_and_support
Adult care overview: https://www.swindon.gov.uk/info/20011/adult_social_care_and_support/1150/care_and_support_for_adults_in_swindon

Bath and North East Somerset Council – Adult Social Care
Telephone: 01225 396231
Email: Contact via online adult social care form
Funding and support information: https://www.bathnes.gov.uk/paying-social-care-and-support
Adult social care services: https://www.bathnes.gov.uk/council-services/adult-social-care

South Gloucestershire Council – Adult Social Care
Telephone: 01454 868007
Email: CSODesk@southglos.gov.uk
Funding and support information: https://beta.southglos.gov.uk/health-and-social-care/care-support-for-adults/
Care and support requests: https://beta.southglos.gov.uk/request-care-and-support/

Somerset Council – Adult Social Care
Telephone: 0300 123 2224
Email: adults@somerset.gov.uk
Funding and support information: https://www.somerset.gov.uk/care-and-support-for-adults/help-with-paying-for-care-and-support/
Adult care services: https://www.somerset.gov.uk/care-and-support-for-adults/