Most people need to contribute to the cost of their care. Like all councils, we charge for care services. Unlike NHS services which are free, adult social care is not. 

How much you pay depends on your financial situation, which is assessed when we carry out a financial assessment. Your assessment will determine whether you will receive services free, at a reduced cost or at the full cost.

Do savings affect how much you will need to pay?

Yes. This is set out by the government.

If you have more than £23,250 in savings, you will pay the full cost for care services. This does not include the value of your property, unless you’re moving into a care home.

We will still give you advice on the range of services available and how to access support for yourself. 

If you have less than £23,250 in savings then, depending on your income, you will be eligible for help from us with the costs but are likely to still have to contribute something.

Getting an estimate of what you may have to contribute

We have a Financial Contribution indicator built in to our online form this will give you an estimate of what you might need to contribute to your care.  

Working out how much you need to pay 

Following a social care assessment, we will tell you how much your care is going to cost and will carry out a financial assessment to work out how much you can afford to pay towards the cost of your care. You will need to provide us with information from bank statements, your national insurance number and details of your income and savings. The information you give will help us to work out how much you should pay. 

We will also let you know whether you can get direct payments. If you can get direct payments, you'll then be able to choose and arrange your own care, with help if you need it.

The assessments team will also be able to help you apply for any other benefits you may be entitled to. Disability-related costs to cover essential items, such as buying a stair lift or paying domestic help, may be offset against what you need to pay.

On some occasions, the NHS arrange and pay for 'continuing healthcare' which is free care outside of hospital.

How much are care services?

We have a charging policy for care services, which has been set in line with the government guidance. Please discuss with your social worker on the potential cost of your care.

Paying your bill

We will send a bill every four weeks for services already received. The simplest way to pay is by direct debit and a Financial Assessment Officer can help set this up. You can also look on the back of a bill for other ways to pay. 

If you are looking for financial advice, struggling with debt problems, or concerned about getting behind with bills, there are a number of organisations that can help provide independent financial advice. 

If your bill is incorrect

If you think your bill is incorrect or need some help understanding it, please contact a member of the Care Charging Team.

If you don't agree with what you are being asked to pay  

Contact the person who told you about your charge. If you have already discussed this with someone but remain dissatisfied, please complete a complaints form.  

Review and changes to a financial assessment

Your financial assessment will be updated when your care and support plan is reviewed.