Everything you need to know about paying for residential care, local authority funding, NHS funding and the financial support that may be available.
Choosing a care home for yourself or a loved one is a significant life decision. Alongside finding a warm, welcoming and supportive environment, one of the biggest concerns for many families is understanding how residential care will be funded.
Questions such as “Will we have to sell the family home?”, “Can the local authority help?” and “What financial support is available?” are among the most common questions we hear from families considering care.
The reassuring news is that there are several ways care can be funded. Depending on your personal circumstances, you may pay for your own care, receive support from West Sussex County Council, qualify for NHS funding, or receive help through benefits designed to support older people.
Understanding the different funding routes can feel overwhelming at first, particularly when you’re already coping with the emotional challenges of arranging care. Our aim with this guide is to explain the process in clear, straightforward language so you can better understand the options that may be available.
Whether you’re planning ahead, arranging respite care following a hospital stay or considering long-term residential care, we hope this guide helps you feel more informed and confident about the next steps.
Important Information
Please read before continuing.
The information contained in this guide is intended for general educational purposes only. It should not be considered financial advice, legal advice or personalised care funding advice.
Care funding rules, financial thresholds and eligibility criteria can change, and every person’s circumstances are unique. Before making decisions about paying for long-term care, we recommend speaking with:
- West Sussex County Council
- NHS services where appropriate
- A qualified independent financial adviser with experience in later-life planning
- A solicitor for legal matters such as Lasting Powers of Attorney or property ownership
While the team at The Victoria Grand is always happy to explain our care services and admissions process, we cannot advise families on the most appropriate financial arrangements for their individual circumstances.
Why Understanding Care Home Funding Matters
Many families only begin researching care home funding when they urgently need support. This often happens following a hospital admission, a fall, or when it becomes clear that a loved one can no longer live safely at home.
Unfortunately, this means families are often making important decisions under considerable emotional pressure.
Understanding how funding works before decisions need to be made allows families to:
- Understand what financial support may be available.
- Avoid unnecessary worry about paying for care.
- Ask the right questions during assessments.
- Plan ahead with confidence.
- Make informed decisions about long-term care.
The funding process may seem complicated initially, but it becomes much easier when broken down into manageable stages.
How Care Home Funding Works in England
One of the biggest misconceptions is that there is a single organisation responsible for paying for everyone’s care.
In reality, funding depends on a combination of:
- Your care needs.
- Your financial circumstances.
- Your health requirements.
- The results of formal assessments.
Some people pay the full cost themselves.
Others receive financial support from their local authority.
Some qualify for NHS funding.
Many people receive a combination of different funding arrangements and benefits.
This means that two people living in the same care home may have completely different funding arrangements.
Step One: Understanding the Different Types of Care
Before looking at funding, it’s helpful to understand the different types of care available, as this can affect which funding routes may apply.
Residential Care
Residential care provides accommodation, meals, personal care, activities and 24-hour support for people who can no longer live safely at home but do not require continuous nursing care.
This is the type of care provided at The Victoria Grand Care Home.
Residential care often supports people who need help with:
- Personal care
- Medication management
- Mobility
- Nutrition
- Social interaction
- Daily living activities
Dementia Care
People living with dementia often require specialist support tailored to their changing needs.
Funding arrangements for dementia care follow the same general principles as residential care, although some people with particularly complex health needs may also be assessed for NHS Continuing Healthcare.
Respite Care
Respite care offers short-term stays for people recovering after illness, surgery or hospital discharge, or to provide family carers with a temporary break.
Although respite stays are shorter, funding options may still be available depending on individual circumstances.
Step Two: A Care Needs Assessment
Before anyone can receive financial support from the local authority, their care needs usually need to be assessed.
For families in Worthing and the surrounding area, this assessment is generally arranged through West Sussex County Council.
The purpose of the assessment is not to look at finances.
Instead, it focuses on understanding:
- What support the person needs each day.
- Whether they can safely remain at home.
- How independent they are.
- Whether residential care may be appropriate.
- Their physical and mental wellbeing.
- The support currently provided by family members.
This assessment helps determine whether someone has eligible care needs under national guidance.
What Happens During the Assessment?
The assessment is usually carried out by a trained professional who will talk with the individual and, where appropriate, family members or carers.
Topics discussed may include:
- Washing and dressing
- Preparing meals
- Taking medication
- Mobility
- Memory
- Personal safety
- Managing the home
- Social isolation
- Emotional wellbeing
The assessor will consider how these needs affect everyday life before deciding whether the individual is eligible for support.
Step Three: The Financial Assessment (Means Test)
If someone is found to have eligible care needs, the next stage is often a financial assessment.
This is sometimes referred to as a means test.
Unlike the care needs assessment, this stage looks at finances rather than care needs.
The assessment considers factors such as:
- Savings.
- Investments.
- Pension income.
- Property ownership (where applicable).
- Other financial assets.
The outcome helps determine whether the individual may need to pay for their own care, contribute towards the cost, or receive financial assistance from the local authority.
Because everyone’s financial circumstances are different, the results can vary significantly from person to person.
Self-Funding Your Care
Many people initially pay for their own care.
This is commonly known as self-funding.
Being a self-funder simply means that, based on current funding rules and assessments, the individual is responsible for meeting the cost of their care.
People may fund their care using:
- Personal savings.
- Pension income.
- Investments.
- Rental income.
- Proceeds from the sale of a property.
- Financial planning arrangements.
Self-funding does not necessarily mean that no other financial support is available.
Some people who pay for their own care may still qualify for certain benefits or NHS funding depending on their circumstances.
Because care fees can represent a significant financial commitment, many families choose to speak with an independent financial adviser who specialises in later-life planning before making long-term decisions.
Local Authority Funding
If someone has eligible care needs and their financial assessment indicates they may qualify for support, West Sussex County Council may contribute towards the cost of care.
The amount of support available depends on individual circumstances and the outcome of both the care needs assessment and financial assessment.
In general, the local authority will consider:
- The person’s care needs.
- Their financial situation.
- Whether residential care is the most appropriate option.
- The cost of meeting those needs.
If funding is agreed, the council will explain how much they may contribute and whether the individual is expected to make a financial contribution towards their care.
It is important to remember that each assessment is unique. Two people with similar care needs may receive different funding outcomes because their financial circumstances differ.
For this reason, it is always advisable to discuss your individual situation directly with West Sussex County Council and seek independent advice where appropriate.
NHS Funding, Benefits and Other Financial Support
While many people assume care home fees are either paid privately or by the local authority, there are a number of other forms of financial support that may be available depending on an individual’s health needs and personal circumstances.
Understanding these options can help families ask the right questions and ensure they have explored every possible source of support.
As with all aspects of care funding, eligibility is determined through formal assessments and individual circumstances. Not everyone will qualify for every type of funding.
NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC)
One of the least understood funding options is NHS Continuing Healthcare (often shortened to CHC).
Unlike local authority funding, NHS Continuing Healthcare is not based on your income, savings or the value of your home.
Instead, eligibility is based on the nature, complexity, intensity and unpredictability of a person’s ongoing healthcare needs.
If someone qualifies, the NHS may fund the full cost of their eligible care, including accommodation and personal care where appropriate.
This can be an important source of support for people with significant and ongoing health conditions.
Who Might Be Eligible?
People who may be considered for an assessment often have complex healthcare needs arising from conditions such as:
- Advanced dementia
- Parkinson’s disease
- Multiple sclerosis
- Stroke
- Complex neurological conditions
- Significant mobility needs
- Severe frailty
- Other long-term medical conditions requiring substantial ongoing care
Having one of these conditions does not automatically mean someone will qualify, but it may indicate that an assessment is appropriate.
How Does the Assessment Work?
The NHS uses a nationally recognised assessment process.
It usually begins with an initial screening before progressing to a more detailed assessment if appropriate.
Healthcare professionals will consider areas including:
- Mobility
- Cognition
- Behaviour
- Nutrition
- Medication
- Continence
- Skin integrity
- Breathing
- Communication
- Psychological needs
The assessment considers how these needs interact, rather than simply looking at individual diagnoses.
If you believe your loved one may have complex healthcare needs, you can ask their healthcare professional whether an NHS Continuing Healthcare assessment would be appropriate.
NHS-funded Nursing Care (FNC)
Families often confuse NHS Continuing Healthcare with NHS-funded Nursing Care, but they are different.
NHS-funded Nursing Care is available only for people living in a registered nursing home who require care from a registered nurse.
Victoria Grand provides residential care, so this funding would generally apply if someone required nursing care in a nursing home rather than residential care alone.
The NHS pays a contribution towards the nursing element of care, while the remaining costs are funded through other arrangements.
Because eligibility and funding rules can change, it’s always worth discussing your individual circumstances with healthcare professionals.
Attendance Allowance
Attendance Allowance is one of the most valuable benefits available to many older people, yet it is often overlooked.
This benefit is designed to help people over State Pension age who need additional support because of a disability, illness or long-term health condition.
Importantly, Attendance Allowance is:
- Not means-tested.
- Not based on National Insurance contributions.
- Tax-free.
Eligibility depends on the level of care or supervision someone needs rather than a specific diagnosis.
The benefit may help towards the additional costs associated with needing extra support in daily life.
Depending on an individual’s circumstances and where they live, entitlement may change after moving into long-term residential care, so it is always worth checking the latest official guidance.
Pension Credit
Some older people may also be entitled to Pension Credit, which is designed to provide extra financial support for those on a lower income.
Receiving Pension Credit may also open access to other forms of assistance, depending on individual circumstances.
Because many eligible people do not claim Pension Credit, checking entitlement can be worthwhile when reviewing finances before moving into care.
Other Benefits That May Help
Depending on individual circumstances, families may wish to explore whether they are entitled to other forms of support.
These can include benefits or schemes relating to:
- Disability
- Carers
- Housing
- Council Tax
- Winter support
- Energy costs
Eligibility varies, so official guidance should always be checked.
What Happens to Your Home?
Perhaps the biggest concern families have is:
“Will we have to sell Mum or Dad’s house?”
The honest answer is:
Not necessarily.
There is no simple yes or no answer because every situation is different.
Whether a property is taken into account depends on several factors, including:
- Whether a husband, wife or civil partner continues living there.
- Whether another qualifying dependant remains in the property.
- The funding route being used.
- Individual financial circumstances.
In some situations, the value of a property may not be included in a financial assessment.
Because property ownership is often one of the most valuable assets a family has, many people choose to seek independent legal and financial advice before making decisions.
It is important not to make assumptions or take action based on information from friends or social media, as individual circumstances can make a significant difference.
Deferred Payment Agreements
Some people worry they may need to sell their home immediately to pay for care.
In certain circumstances, this may not be necessary.
Some local authorities operate Deferred Payment Agreements, which can allow eligible individuals to delay paying part of their care costs until a later date, often when a property is eventually sold.
Whether someone qualifies depends on their individual circumstances and local authority criteria.
If you believe this option may apply to you or your loved one, West Sussex County Council can explain the eligibility requirements and application process.
Can You Give Away Your Money or Home to Avoid Paying Care Fees?
This is another question families regularly ask.
Some people believe that transferring savings or giving away a property before moving into care will prevent those assets from being considered during a financial assessment.
Unfortunately, it is not that straightforward.
If assets have deliberately been given away or transferred primarily to reduce care costs, the local authority may consider this to be deliberate deprivation of assets.
Each situation is assessed individually.
For this reason, families should always seek independent professional advice before making significant financial or legal decisions.
Common Myths About Paying for Care
“The NHS pays for everyone’s care.”
This is one of the most common misunderstandings.
Only people who meet specific NHS eligibility criteria may qualify for NHS Continuing Healthcare.
“I’ll definitely have to sell my house.”
Not necessarily.
Whether your property is included depends on your personal circumstances and the outcome of financial assessments.
“The council will pay everything.”
Local authority funding is subject to assessments, eligibility criteria and financial contributions where applicable.
“My family will have to pay my care fees.”
In many cases, adult children are not automatically responsible for paying a parent’s care home fees simply because they are related. However, families may choose to contribute voluntarily if they wish.
“It’s too late to start planning.”
Planning ahead can make a significant difference.
Understanding funding options before an emergency arises often gives families more time to consider their choices and access the appropriate support.
Real-Life Funding Scenarios
Every family’s circumstances are different, which is why there isn’t a single answer to the question, “How do you pay for a care home?”
The examples below are fictional and are provided to illustrate how different funding routes may apply in different situations. They should not be interpreted as advice or an indication of eligibility.
Scenario 1 – Margaret is Funding Her Own Care
Margaret is 84 and has recently decided to move into a residential care home after finding it increasingly difficult to manage everyday tasks at home.
She owns her home, receives a private pension and has accumulated savings over many years.
Following a financial assessment, Margaret may be responsible for paying for her own care. However, she may still wish to check whether she is entitled to benefits such as Attendance Allowance or whether independent financial advice could help her plan for the future.
Scenario 2 – David Needs Financial Support
David is 89 and lives alone following the loss of his wife.
His savings are limited, and following a Care Needs Assessment, it is determined that residential care would be the safest option.
Depending on the outcome of his financial assessment, West Sussex County Council may contribute towards the cost of his care.
Scenario 3 – Susan Has Complex Healthcare Needs
Susan has advanced Parkinson’s disease and requires significant support throughout the day and night.
Because of the complexity of her healthcare needs, her healthcare team may recommend an assessment for NHS Continuing Healthcare.
Eligibility would depend on the outcome of the NHS assessment rather than Susan’s financial circumstances.
Scenario 4 – Peter Needs Respite Care
Peter has recently been discharged from hospital following a hip replacement.
His family are unable to provide the level of support he needs while he recovers.
A short respite stay in a residential care home allows Peter to recover safely before returning home.
Depending on his circumstances, different funding arrangements may apply during his temporary stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does everyone have to pay for a care home?
No.
Some people pay for their own care, while others receive financial support from their local authority, the NHS or a combination of funding arrangements. The support available depends on individual assessments and circumstances.
How do I know if my loved one needs residential care?
A Care Needs Assessment can help determine the level of support someone requires.
If daily tasks such as washing, dressing, preparing meals or taking medication are becoming difficult, it may be appropriate to request an assessment.
Can I arrange a Care Needs Assessment myself?
Yes.
If you believe you or a family member may need care, you can usually contact West Sussex County Council to request an assessment.
Is the Care Needs Assessment free?
Care Needs Assessments are generally provided without charge.
Does the Financial Assessment cost anything?
The Financial Assessment is part of the process used to determine whether financial support may be available.
What happens if my circumstances change?
Funding arrangements can change if a person’s care needs or financial circumstances change.
If this happens, it is important to notify the relevant organisations so your situation can be reviewed.
Can I choose my own care home?
In many cases, people have a choice of care home, although the options available may depend on individual circumstances and funding arrangements.
Can I move into a care home without selling my property?
Possibly.
Whether a property is included in financial assessments depends on several factors, including who continues living there and the type of funding being considered.
Does dementia automatically qualify someone for NHS funding?
No.
Having dementia does not automatically mean someone will qualify for NHS Continuing Healthcare.
Eligibility is based on the person’s overall healthcare needs rather than a specific diagnosis.
Can Victoria Grand advise me on funding?
We’re always happy to explain our care services and discuss our admissions process.
However, we cannot provide financial, legal or personalised funding advice.
If you’re unsure about your circumstances, we recommend speaking with West Sussex County Council, the NHS or a qualified independent financial adviser.
Your Next Steps
If you’re beginning to explore care options for yourself or a loved one, the following steps can help you move forward with confidence.
✓ Speak with family members about current care needs.
✓ Request a Care Needs Assessment if additional support may be required.
✓ Gather information about income, savings and other financial arrangements ahead of any Financial Assessment.
✓ Explore whether benefits such as Attendance Allowance may be available.
✓ Consider seeking independent financial advice if significant assets or property are involved.
✓ Visit local care homes to understand the care, facilities and support available (book your visit to The Victoria Grand).
How Victoria Grand Can Help
At Victoria Grand Care Home in Worthing, we understand that arranging care can feel overwhelming. Every family’s situation is different, and there is rarely a one-size-fits-all answer.
While we cannot advise on financial matters or tell you which funding option is right for you, we are always happy to explain how residential, dementia and respite care work at Victoria Grand, answer questions about daily life in our home, and guide you towards trusted organisations that can provide independent advice.
If you’re considering care for yourself or a loved one, we warmly invite you to visit Victoria Grand, meet our team and experience our home for yourself.
A friendly conversation today can often make tomorrow’s decisions feel much easier.
Book your visit to The Victoria Grand Today!
Useful Organisations & Contacts
As funding rules and eligibility can change, always refer to the latest official guidance or seek independent professional advice before making financial decisions.
West Sussex County Council
Your first point of contact for information about adult social care, financial assessments and funding support.
Paying for Residential Care
Information about financial assessments, eligibility, and how residential care is funded.
Deferred Payment Scheme
Find out how you may be able to delay selling your home while paying for residential care.
Adults’ CarePoint
For care needs assessments, financial assessments and advice about adult social care services in West Sussex.
Telephone: 01243 642121
Website: www.westsussex.gov.uk/social-care-and-health/social-care-support/adults
Carewise
Carewise is West Sussex County Council’s independent financial information and advice service, helping people understand the options available for paying for long-term care.
- Independent financial guidance
- Funding options explained
- Access to accredited care fees specialists
Website: www.carewiseadvice.com
Age UK West Sussex, Brighton & Hove
Provides free, confidential advice for older people and their families, including guidance on care funding, benefits, lasting powers of attorney and later life planning.
Website: www.ageuk.org.uk/westsussexbrightonhove
MoneyHelper
A free government-backed service offering clear, impartial guidance on paying for care, deferred payment agreements and long-term financial planning.
NHS Continuing Healthcare
If you have significant ongoing healthcare needs, you may be eligible for NHS Continuing Healthcare funding. Information about eligibility and the assessment process can be found on the NHS website.
Attendance Allowance
If you are over State Pension age and need help because of illness or disability, you may be entitled to Attendance Allowance, even if you currently fund your own care.
Website: www.gov.uk/attendance-allowance
Citizens Advice Worthing
Free, independent advice on benefits, debt, housing, legal matters and care funding.
Website: www.arunwestsussexcab.org.uk
Independent Financial Advice
When making significant financial decisions, particularly involving property or long-term care funding, it is often beneficial to speak with a regulated financial adviser who specialises in later life planning.
You can find accredited advisers through:
- Society of Later Life Advisers (SOLLA): www.societyoflaterlifeadvisers.co.uk
- MoneyHelper – Find a Financial Adviser: www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en/getting-help-and-advice/financial-advisers
The Victoria Grand Care Home
If you have questions about care fees, funding options or the admissions process, our friendly team is always happy to help.
The Victoria Grand Care Home
22 Mill Road
Worthing
West Sussex BN11 4LF
Telephone: 01903 248 048
We’re here to help. If you’re unsure where to start, please get in touch with our team. We can explain the different funding options, signpost you to trusted local organisations and help you make informed decisions about residential care with confidence.
Last reviewed: August 2026
This article is reviewed periodically to help ensure the information remains accurate. However, funding rules and eligibility criteria may change over time, so readers should always check the latest official guidance before making decisions.
