Funding Your Care
Affordable Home Care Solutions with Mersea Homecare
Many assume personalized home care is financially out of reach, but funding options exist to make quality care accessible. Below are pathways to help cover your care costs.
Public Funding Options
You may qualify for government assistance to offset care expenses. Start by requesting a free care assessment from your local Social Services, which includes:
- A community care assessment to evaluate your needs
- A means-tested financial assessment to determine eligibility for subsidized care
Direct Payments: Take Control of Your Care
If assessed as needing support, your council may offer direct payments—funds paid directly to you to arrange and manage your own care. This empowers you to:
✔ Choose your care provider (agency or private carer)
✔ Set flexible schedules that fit your lifestyle
✔ Maintain independence in daily activities, work, or social pursuits
The government actively promotes direct payments to give more people control over their care. If eligible, councils must present this as an option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the benefits of direct payments?
- Full control over care type and provider
- Flexibility to hire staff or use an agency
- Services tailored to your routine
Q: Who is eligible?
- Adults 16+ assessed as needing care
- Parents of children requiring support
- Unpaid carers 16+
Q: What if I need help managing payments?
Social Services can assist with setup, recommend local support groups, or connect you with trusted care providers. You may also appoint a trusted person (e.g., family member) to help administer funds.
Q: Can I top up my direct payment?
Yes! If your preferred care exceeds the payment amount, you can supplement costs with personal funds for greater choice.
For details, contact your local council or visit the Department of Health’s Direct Payments Guide.
Independent Living Fund (ILF)
This central government fund helps disabled adults live at home (vs. residential care) by covering:
✓ Personal assistant wages
✓ Agency care costs
Note: Restrictions apply—review guidelines on the official government website.
Private Funding: Flexible Alternatives
If ineligible for public support or preferring self-funded care, consider:
- Equity release
- Care fee planning
- Estate/wealth preservation
An independent Financial Advisor (specializing in care costs) can help navigate options.
Mersea Homecare: Quality Care, Your Way
Whether publicly or privately funded, we deliver personalized, high-quality home care tailored to your needs. Contact us for a customized quote—we’re here to help you live well at home.
