Paying for residential care can feel complex and overwhelming, particularly at a time when families are already facing difficult decisions. At Watermoor House, we aim to be open and supportive, and to help you understand the funding options available so you can make informed choices with confidence.
This page provides an overview of funding for care in England, including residential care funding options and where to find further advice and support.
How care funding works
Understanding the options for funding care in England can help families make informed decisions and plan with confidence.
The cost of residential care depends on a person’s individual care needs and financial circumstances. In England, funding is generally assessed through a care needs assessment and a financial (means) assessment carried out by the local authority.
Even if you expect to pay for care privately, it is often still helpful to request an assessment. This can clarify eligibility for support and help ensure you receive appropriate advice.
Self-funding care
Many people pay for their care themselves, either because they do not qualify for local authority funding or because they prefer to make private arrangements.
As a general guide, if a person has capital above the upper threshold set by the government (currently £23,250 in England), they are usually considered a self-funder. Capital can include savings and investments, and in some circumstances, property.
Self-funding does not mean you are without support — professional advice and careful planning can still play an important role.
Local authority funding and assessments
If you believe you or your relative may need support from the local authority, you can request:
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a Care Needs Assessment – to understand what support is required
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a Financial Assessment (means test) – to determine whether the council will contribute to care costs
If the local authority agrees to fund or part-fund care, it will usually contribute up to a set rate. Families may choose a care home that charges above this rate and pay a “top-up” themselves.
NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC)
Some people with complex or primarily health-based needs may be eligible for NHS Continuing Healthcare, which is fully funded by the NHS.
Eligibility is based on health needs rather than finances, and assessments can be requested through the NHS or local authority. This process can be detailed, and families often benefit from support and advice when navigating it.
Benefits that may help with care costs
Some state benefits may contribute towards the cost of care, depending on individual circumstances.
Attendance Allowance or Personal Independence Payment (PIP) may be payable if a person is self-funding their care in a residential home. These benefits are not usually paid when care is fully funded by the local authority or the NHS.
Benefit entitlement can change when someone moves into residential care, and eligibility rules can be complex. Independent advice can help clarify what support may be available in a particular situation.
Getting independent advice
Care funding decisions can have long-term implications, and many families find it helpful to speak to an independent specialist before making commitments.
Useful organisations and resources
Care Advice Line
The Care Advice Line offers free, confidential guidance for people exploring care options and funding arrangements. They can help explain the process, answer questions, and signpost further support.
📞 0800 311 8579
🌐 www.careadviceline.org
You may also find the following organisations helpful:
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Age UK – guidance on paying for care and benefits
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Independent Age – free advice for older people and families
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MoneyHelper – impartial financial guidance from the UK government
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NHS – information on NHS Continuing Healthcare
We are happy to point you towards these resources if you would like further guidance.
Our approach to fees
Watermoor House is a registered charity, and our fees are set to support the long-term sustainability of the home while continuing to provide high-quality care in a comfortable and supportive environment. Any surplus is reinvested back into the home, our facilities, and resident wellbeing.
We are always happy to discuss our fees openly and answer questions about what is included. If you would like information about current prices or would find it helpful to talk through your situation, please do get in touch.
How we can help
If you are considering Watermoor House and would like to discuss fees, funding options, or next steps, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are always happy to talk things through and help you understand what support may be available.
📞 01285 654864
📧 enquiries@watermoorhouse.org