Paying for nursing care: an overview

When it comes to finding nursing care for your loved one, care is always going to be something you think about. If they have assets that total more than £23,250, they will have to pay for care themselves.

It often feels a little more difficult when your loved one requires experienced nursing care but might not have any savings or assets to pay for it. Do not worry, if your loved one does not have any savings, it does not mean they have to go without professional care. A needs assessment, followed by a financial assessment, can provide you with a budget that allows you to find a nursing home that offers the level of care your loved one requires.

If your loved one has assets of £23,250 or more, they will need to pay for their nursing care. The amount they will have to pay depends on various factors, such as the level of care they need, their preferences and where in the UK they are based. Often, nursing care costs around £1,000 per week, however, some homes may charge as much as £5,000.

If your loved one qualifies for financial support, they will be provided with a budget that covers the fees of at least one local nursing home that offers the care they need. If you or your loved one would prefer a different home, you can use this budget towards those costs, but you must make up the difference.

Here at Ashberry Care Homes, we offer experienced nursing care in several of our locations, with costs starting from £943 per week.:

• Broomy Hill, Hereford – from £1,046 per week
• Blaenos House, Llandovery- from £1,009 per week
• Allt Y Mynydd, West Wales – from £1,100 per week

Who pays for nursing care? FAQs

Are next of kin responsible for nursing home fees?

No, you are not responsible for paying nursing home fees for a relative who may require nursing care. Speak to your local authority to arrange a needs and financial assessment.

Can you refuse to pay nursing home fees?

No, you cannot refuse to pay nursing home fees. If your loved one has assets of £23,250 or more, they will need to pay their care home fees.

What happens when the money runs out?

If your loved one’s savings drop below £23,250, they will need to apply for financial support. Ensure there is no disruption to care by applying for support early.

How much money can you have before you have to pay for nursing care?

If your loved one has £23,249 or less, they will not have to pay for nursing care.

It is understandable that you may worry about affordability when it comes to finding professional nursing care for your loved one. Thankfully, there are schemes in place so that, should your loved one need care but they do not have the funds, they can still receive it. For more information on financial support, contact your local authority’s adult social care service.