Private Home Care vs Local Authority Funding: What You Need to Know
- Homelium
- Apr 3
- 3 min read
Private Home Care vs Local Authority Funding
When starting to explore care for yourself or a loved one, one of the most common questions families ask is:
“How is home care paid for?”
Many people assume care must be fully self-funded, but depending on your situation, you may be eligible for support from your local authority.
In this guide, we explain the difference of private home care vs local authority-funded care and how to get started.
What Is Private Home Care?
Private home care means you arrange and pay for care services yourself.
This gives you:
✔ Full flexibility over the type of care you receive
✔ Choice of provider and care plan
✔ Faster access to support without waiting lists
Private care can range from a few hours a week to full-time live-in care, depending on your needs.
At Homelium Care, we work closely with families to create personalised care plans that can adapt over time.
What Is Local Authority Funded Care?
If you or your loved one may need support, your local council can carry out a care needs assessment.
This looks at:
Your ability to manage daily tasks
Your health and wellbeing
The level of support required
If you are eligible, the local authority may:
✔ Fully fund your care
✔ Part-fund your care
✔ Provide a personal budget for support
Funding is usually means-tested, meaning your financial situation will be taken into account.
How Do You Apply for Funding?
The first step is to request a care needs assessment through your local council.
This can feel confusing, but the process generally involves:
Contacting your local authority
Completing an assessment of care needs
Undergoing a financial assessment
Receiving a care plan and funding decision
Many families find this process overwhelming and that’s completely normal.
Can You Combine Private and Funded Care?
Yes, in many cases, families choose a combination of private and local authority-funded care.
This allows you to:
Top up care hours
Choose more flexibility
Ensure continuity of care
How Homelium Care Can Help
At Homelium Care, we understand that navigating care funding can feel complicated.
That’s why we support families every step of the way by:
Explaining the difference between private and funded care
Helping you understand what you may be entitled to
Supporting you through the assessment process
Creating a care plan tailored to your needs
Providing high-quality care whether privately funded or through the local authority
We also offer a free care consultation and 2 hours of free care for new clients, giving you the opportunity to explore your options with no pressure.
Home Care Funding in Your Local Area
We support families across multiple locations, with local teams who understand how care works in each area.
📍 Dorset
If you’re exploring home care in Dorset, including Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch and East Dorset, we can guide you through local authority funding options and private care services to find the right support.
📍 Essex
For families in Essex, including Basildon and surrounding areas, we provide advice on care funding and offer flexible home care services tailored to your situation.
Our home care services in Hampshire support families navigating both private care and local authority funding, helping you make informed decisions with confidence.
If you’re looking for home care in Northampton, our team can help you understand what support may be available and guide you through the care funding process.
In West Sussex and Surrey, including Crawley, Haywards Heath and surrounding areas, we support families with both private and funded care options, ensuring the right level of support is in place.
When Should You Explore Care Funding?
It may be time to explore your options if:
A loved one is struggling with daily tasks
You’re feeling overwhelmed supporting someone
There have been changes in health or mobility
You’re unsure what level of care is needed
The earlier you explore support, the easier it is to put the right care in place.
Speak to Our Team
If you’re unsure where to start, you’re not alone.
👉 Contact Homelium Care today for friendly, no-obligation advice on private home care and local authority funding.
📞 0333 3448 677 | hello@homelium.com
Comments