Funding
How do I find the right kind of care home?
Deciding that you or a loved one needs care is a big step, and it can be hard to know what the next step is. Whether you’re looking at a Bupa care home or not, we’ll take you through the process of finding the right kind of care, the perfect home to provide it and the ways you can pay for it all.
We're here to help you
We know that understanding your options can be confusing, which is why our customer care team offers free help and advice.
For help understanding your eligibility or how the funding application process works, call
0333 242 9123^
Common questions about funding
Am I eligible for care home financial support from my local council?
To be eligible for funding, the combined value of your savings and assets needs to be below the care home savings threshold for your country. England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland all have their own thresholds.
Your local council will conduct a financial assessment to determine your eligibility and work out how much support you’re entitled to.
You can apply for a free assessment through your local council. If you re unable to fill out the assessment yourself, someone else can do it on your behalf.
How much funding could I receive?
If you're eligible for funding, you'll be given a personal budget and the local council must find you a home within that budget that meets your needs. The budget you are given will depend on the overall value of your savings.
You may decide to choose a different home to the one your local council suggests, in which case a family member or friend can offer to pay the difference.
How will my finances be assessed?
Your local council will look at your assets, income and any savings you have. This includes and the value of your home if you own it. The combined value of these will determine how much you'll need to pay towards your care. The financial assessment applies to the person that needs care.
What additional financial support is available?
No matter how the care is funded, you may be eligible for additional support such as attendance allowance and pension credit. You will need to apply for these through your local council.
What if I have to pay for my own care?
If you are over the savings threshold for your country, you'll be classed as a self funder and expected pay for your own care. You won't be entitled to funding towards your care home fees, but you may still be able to apply for attendance allowance and pension credit.
If your financial situation changes while you're in care, for example because the value of your savings has decreased, you can apply for a new financial assessment. It's best to do this in advance as the process can take a few months.
Do my children have to pay for my care home?
Unless there are any joint assets or contracts between you and your child, there's no legal obligation for them to pay for your care. Of course, they can opt to pay for your care, but they may need to sign a contract with the care home to make this an official declaration.
How much does care cost?
The cost of care depends on a few factors, ranging from clinical need to the location and room type you choose. Our care home costs page outlines what’s included in the weekly fees. You can get exact pricing by calling our customer care team on 0333 242 9123^.
What's next?
Get more information, speak to us or visit us in person
Call a customer care adviser
Our helpful care team offers free advice on anything from funding to finding the right home. Call us on:
0343 249 6293^
Arrange a visit
Have a look around one of our care homes to see if it’s right for you. To plan a visit, call us on
0808 301 5403^
^ Lines are open 8am to 6.30pm Monday to Friday, 9am to 12.30pm Saturday. Closed Sundays and bank holidays. Calls are charged at no more than local rate and count towards any inclusive minutes from mobiles. We may record or monitor our calls.
