How Much Do Care Homes Cost?
In the United Kingdom, the demand for care homes and nursing homes is on the rise. However, due to care costs ranking among the highest in Europe, it is becoming increasingly challenging for those in need of care to locate suitable options.
This blog digs into the expenses associated with care home or nursing home fees in the UK. We explore the amenities provided in assisted living facilities, personal care services, and the financial help that can be given to individuals requiring extra assistance.
Fees for Care Homes in the UK
Across the UK, the average weekly cost for residential care is around £700, with the annual care home fees ranging between £27,000 and £39,000. Specialist care services, such as nursing care and dementia care tend to exceed these figures as more on-hand care is required.
Another significant contributor to fees is the location of the care home or nursing home. On average, residential care homes situated in the southern regions of England tend to incur greater expenses compared to those in the North West of the UK and some parts of Northern Ireland. A care home in London will be a more expensive care home.
It's important to note that these statistics reflect the average care home fees in 2023. However, it's crucial to understand that actual fees can vary significantly based on the specific care home or nursing home and the extent of services they provide.
UK Care Home Fees and How They Are Structured
Care homes across the UK all have varying fee structures. The expenses associated with care differ based on the provided services, which can make it challenging for families to make direct comparisons. Depending on the specific care home or nursing home, you might encounter fixed charges on a weekly or monthly basis. However, some care homes adopt a 'pay as you go' approach and others offer an all-inclusive way of living.
It's important to keep in mind that there will be supplementary charges for additional services enjoyed by the residents, such as visits to the in-house hairdressers, participation in day trips or engaging in social activities if the resident is not on an all-inclusive structure.
How Much are Residential Care Costs?
Residential care costs typically involves a standard base fee, to which supplementary charges may be added as necessary. When residing in a residential care home exclusively, the expenses usually cover your accommodation, utility costs, all meals and the provided care services.
How Much is Dementia Care Home Fees?
This service is exclusively tailored for individuals living with dementia. Currently, over one million residents in the UK are affected by this condition and studies suggest this figure will continue to increase.
In contrast to residential care, dementia care incurs significantly higher costs due to the specialised support required. Staff members at these dedicated care facilities undergo training to ensure precise and appropriate care is delivered.
How Much Does Nursing Care Cost?
Nursing care demands a more hands-on approach and tends to result in higher expenses when compared to other types of care homes. While the fees can fluctuate, they typically encompass accommodation, meals, support services and the costs associated with nursing care. Given the heightened level of intensive assistance required, nursing care is generally associated with significantly higher costs.
How Much is Respite Care?
Respite care is a service designed to offer short-term support to individuals requiring temporary support, such as those recuperating from illness or surgery.
This service can also grant caregivers a break from their responsibilities while aiding care seekers with their daily tasks. The costs associated with respite care can vary, influenced by factors such as the length of stay and the extent of required assistance.
Typically, respite care facilities adopt a daily or weekly charging structure.
How Much are Palliative Care Costs in the UK?
Palliative care, often known as end-of-life care, is a compassionate service provided to individuals confronting a severe illness or health condition as they approach the final stages of their life. This can result from the natural progression of ageing or due to the presence of a terminal illness or a health condition of significant concern.
Typically, the cost of care for this service is normally on a pay-as-you-go structure but some all-inclusive care homes also provide this kind of service.
What is Normally Included in Care Home Fees?
Typically, nursing home and care home fees encompass accommodation, personal care, activities and meals.
It's essential to keep in mind that every care home is unique and certain establishments might apply an extra charge for additional services. When researching different homes, it's advisable to enquire about the inclusions and exclusions in the pricing structure, to prevent any unforeseen expenses. However, some nursing homes and care homes provide an all-inclusive lifestyle option.
As well as additional services, it is important to remember that location plays a massive part in how much you will pay for the cost of care.
What is an All-Inclusive Care Home?
Despite typically carrying a higher price tag, all-inclusive nursing homes are steadily gaining popularity throughout the UK, thanks to their consistent rates and conveniences.
The assurance of not having to unexpected expenses in addition to the regular fees can provide a great sense of comfort, particularly in the current cost of living crisis. Residing in an all-inclusive care home ensures that your care, support, accommodation, amenities and meals are all covered by the fees.
All-inclusive nursing homes employ diverse fee structures and provide a variety of different services, amenities and activities. As a result, it's imperative to locate a home that can provide the appropriate levels of care tailored to your needs.
Most all-inclusive homes will offer Residential Care, Nursing Care, Respite Care and Dementia Care.
Paying for Care
The individual in need of care typically covers their own care costs or one of their loved ones will do so. However, not everyone possesses the financial means to cover these costs independently. Those requiring care and facing financial constraints can apply for financial assistance from their local authority, this is when the local authority pay the care home fees. This financial help is all dependent on a financial assessment that takes into account the care seekers' savings and assets and also their private and state pensions to determine if these combined are above or below the threshold. This assessment is known as a means test. If they get approved, the home costs will be partially or fully funded.
For those who have the means to self-fund their care, it's essential to consult a financial advisor. This step ensures the ability to sustain the cost of care for the entire duration of their stay and enables consideration of alternative options if necessary, such as seeking a top-up fee.
Financial Support Services to Help Cover Care Fees
Depending on an individual's circumstances, they may be eligible for financial support. In such situations, the initial step is to apply for assistance from the local authority. The local authority will conduct a financial assessment to determine if someone's savings and assets surpass or fall below a specific savings threshold. If approved, the local authority will contribute towards the care home fees.
For those in need of extensive care or with significant health needs, there might be an opportunity to qualify for Complex Clinical Care. This healthcare provision is exclusively accessible to those with substantial mental or physical requirements. Unlike a means test, this assessment is solely based on the individual's care needs.
If an individual doesn't meet the criteria for either local authority or Complex Clinical Care funding, they can explore the possibility of a deferred payment agreement. This is when the local authority grants a loan to pay for care costs, which the individual repays once they sell their assets, usually their home or an equity release. It's important to note that interest is typically applied to these repayments.
It's crucial to be aware that guaranteed financial assistance isn't always ensured and certain homes may not accept funding support. Consequently, before visiting a care home or nursing home, it's vital to enquire about their acceptance of financial aid from third parties to avoid any complications.
Local Authority Financial Support
This type of funding is provided by the local authority to aid with care home or nursing home fees for individuals who lack the means to cover them independently. To qualify for this funding, a means test is conducted, evaluating your assets and income.
If you are deemed eligible for local authority funding, your home costs will be covered by the local authority on a weekly basis. However, it's important to acknowledge that at times, the amount the local authority may not encompass the full cost of your care, meaning payment for the remaining care costs is required. This amount someone is granted is based on an individual's healthcare requirements and their personal financial situation.
It's worth noting that local authority funding solely personal care costs, such as accommodation, meals and personal care. Supplementary services or amenities like transportation, social activities and personal items might require additional funding from a personal expenses allowance, which would be the responsibility of the care resident or a family member.
Complex Clinical Care
When a person has complex healthcare needs, they might be eligible to receive NHS-funded care. This form of funding is referred to as Complex Clinical Care, which covers the costs of care as well as other healthcare-related expenses.
To determine if an individual qualifies for Complex Clinical Care a medical professional, such as a registered nurse, will conduct an assessment. This evaluation will delve into the individual's daily care requirements and assess their overall needs.
If Complex Clinical Care is approved, all the nursing care costs will be covered throughout. It is important to bear in mind that not all care homes will have nursing care as a service.
Self-Funding Your Care Fees
If you have the financial means to cover your fees, you will be deemed a self-funder, indicating that you do not need any financial assistance. Consequently, this means you are entirely self-funding all the costs including care costs, personal budget and anything else relating to living in a care home setting.
Being a self-funder involves a substantial financial obligation. Given that not all care homes operate in the same manner and may adopt varied fee structures, it's advisable to thoroughly assess whether your chosen home meets your requirements and if you can comfortably afford your stay before finalising your decision. It would be a good idea to speak to a financial advisor and have a financial assessment before moving into a care home.
All-Inclusive Living at Westerton Care Home in Glasgow
Nestled within the charming town of Bearsden, Glasgow, Westerton Care Home stands as a modern establishment dedicated to exceptional care. Our residential care home accommodates 106 residents, offering them beautifully appointed en-suite bedrooms in an all-inclusive care setting. Here, we provide a comprehensive array of services including Residential Care, Specialist Dementia Care, Nursing Care, Respite Care and Palliative Care, all within group living communities tailored to the specific needs of older individuals. Conveniently situated, the care home enjoys a prominent position with easy access to local transport links, local shops and leisure facilities.
At our Glasgow care home, we hold the belief that every individual deserves a life enriched with purpose. Our dedicated team of professionals at our residential care home takes great pride in fostering a nurturing and supportive environment, allowing everyone to experience both independence and meaningful living each day. Westerton Care Home extends an all-inclusive care package to all residents and adopts a holistic approach to care. This approach ensures that we can provide the highest level of personalised care in a diverse living environment. As personal care needs evolve, we strive to offer a continuum of care, ensuring a seamless transition as individual requirements develop.
Get In Contact Today
If you have any questions about our care home in Glasgow, Scotland get in touch with one of our dedicated team members by calling 0141 942 5834, by emailing info@westertoncarehome.com or by filling out a contact form today.
