How Much Does a Live-In Carer Cost? Understanding Home Care Fees in the UK
UK live-in care cost guide: Uncover £800-£1,600 weekly fees, funding options & care benefits today!!
Have You Ever Wondered What Live-In Care Costs and How to Pay for It?
Choosing live-in care is an important decision that allows older adults to remain in familiar surroundings with dedicated support. However, understanding the costs involved can be challenging. Whether you are planning care for yourself or a loved one, knowing what to expect financially is essential for making informed choices.
This article explains the costs of live-in care, funding options, and financial support available in the UK, ensuring you have the knowledge needed to navigate home care with confidence.
The Cost of Live-In Care in the UK
Live-in care provides continuous support at home, helping with personal care, medication, companionship, and household tasks. The cost of live-in care varies depending on location, the level of assistance required, and whether specialist care is needed.
Average Weekly Costs of Live-In Care
- Standard live-in care: From £800 per week
- Higher-dependency care: Up to £1,600 per week for more complex needs
- Hourly home care: Typically around £20 per hour, depending on location
These costs cover the carer’s accommodation, support, and daily assistance. Specialist care, such as dementia support, may increase expenses due to additional expertise and supervision.
Funding Options for Live-In Care
Many families worry about how to afford long-term care. In the UK, there are several options to help manage care costs, whether through local council support, government benefits, or private funding.
Who Qualifies for Council Support?
Local councils provide funding for individuals with limited financial resources. A means test assesses income, savings, and property value to determine eligibility.
- Full funding: Available if total assets are below £14,250.
- Partial support: Offered if savings are between £14,250 and £23,250.
- Self-funding: Required for those with assets exceeding £23,250.
If you remain in your own home and receive care, its value is not counted in the financial assessment. However, if you move into a residential home, property ownership will be considered.
Government Benefits That Can Help Cover Care Costs
Even if you are self-funding, several benefits can ease the financial burden:
- Attendance Allowance (£72.65 to £108.55 per week) for individuals over State Pension age needing support with daily tasks.
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for those under State Pension age requiring mobility or daily living assistance.
- Carer’s Allowance (£81.90 per week) if a family member provides care for at least 35 hours per week.
- Pension Credit, which tops up income for those on low earnings, ensuring a minimum of £228.15 per week for single individuals.
These benefits provide financial relief and should be explored before committing to private funding options.
Private Funding and Alternative Ways to Pay for Care
If you do not qualify for council funding, there are other ways to cover care expenses:
1. Using Savings and Investments
Many people rely on personal savings or pensions to fund care. If you have financial reserves, planning ahead can help manage ongoing costs effectively.
2. Equity Release
Homeowners can access funds through equity release schemes, allowing them to unlock money from their property while continuing to live there. However, interest rates can be high, so it is advisable to seek financial advice before proceeding.
3. Deferred Payment Scheme
For those moving into a care home, local councils may offer a deferred payment agreement. This allows individuals to use the value of their home to fund care costs, with repayment made once the property is sold.
4. Renting Out Your Home
Some individuals choose to rent out their home to generate income, using the rental payments to cover live-in care fees. This provides an alternative to selling property outright.
Seeking independent financial advice can help families explore the best funding routes based on individual circumstances.
Home Care vs Residential Care: Comparing Costs
When deciding between live-in care and residential care, cost is a significant factor. Here is how the two compare:
| Type of Care | Average Cost |
| Home care (hourly) | £20 per hour |
| Live-in care | £800 – £1,600 per week |
| Residential care | £700 per week |
| Nursing home | From £850 per week |
For couples, live-in care can often be a more affordable option than paying for two separate care home placements.
Free Care Services and Additional Support
Even if you are paying for care, some support is available at no cost, including:
- NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC): Fully funded care for individuals with complex health needs. Eligibility is determined by medical assessments rather than financial status.
- Reablement care: Short-term support following hospital discharge, designed to aid recovery at home.
- Home adaptations: Equipment valued under £1,000, such as grab rails and mobility aids, is often provided for free.
- NHS-funded nursing care: Contributions towards nursing costs in a care home setting.
Planning for Future Care Needs
Understanding live-in care costs and funding options ensures families can make informed choices. Planning ahead helps avoid unexpected expenses and provides financial security for ongoing care.
For personalised support and expert guidance, Home Instead Bedford is here to help. Our team can discuss care options tailored to individual needs, providing compassionate, professional assistance every step of the way.
For more information, contact Home Instead Bedford today and let us support you in finding the best care solutions for your loved one.
Areas We Serve
Bedford, Biddenham, Great Denham, Queen’s Park, Brickhill, Clapham, Renhold, Kempston, Wixams , Cranfield, Marston Moretaine, Wootton, Bolnhurst, Colmworth, Keysoe, Melchbourne, Thurleigh, Ampthill, Clophill, Flitwick, Silsoe, Shefford, Campton, Chicksands, Meppershall
MK40 1, MK40 2, MK40 3, MK40 4, MK41 0, MK41 6, MK41 7, MK41 8, MK41 9, MK42 0, MK42 6, MK42 7, MK42 8, MK42 9, MK43 0, MK43 8, MK43 9, MK44 2, MK44 3, MK45 2, MK45 3, SG17 5
106A Bedford Rd, Wootton, Bedford MK43 9JB, UK
01234 677693