First time arranging care?
You have more rights and support than you might think
Arranging care for the first time is a lot to take in. This page explains what you’re entitled to, the benefits you may be able to claim, and the free helplines and websites that can guide you — none of which cost anything to use.
Your rights
These apply in England. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have similar rights under their own rules.
A care needs assessment
Anyone can ask their council for a free assessment of the care they need — whatever their income or savings. It’s the starting point for getting help.
A financial assessment
After the needs assessment, the council checks your finances (the “means test”) to work out how much, if anything, you contribute.
A carer’s assessment
If you look after someone, you have your own right to an assessment of the support you need as a carer.
NHS Continuing Healthcare
If care is needed mainly because of a health condition, the NHS may fund it in full. You can ask to be assessed for this.
Support to take part
If it would be hard to be involved in your assessment on your own, you have the right to a free independent advocate.
Information and advice
Your council must give you clear information about care and how to pay for it. The helplines below can help too.
Benefits you may be able to claim
Many people miss out on money they’re entitled to. Some of these are paid whatever you have in the bank.
Attendance Allowance
For people over State Pension age who need help or supervision because of illness or disability. Paid whatever your savings.
gov.uk/attendance-allowance
Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
For people aged 16 up to State Pension age with a long-term health condition or disability. (Scotland: Adult Disability Payment.)
gov.uk/pip
Carer’s Allowance
For people caring for someone 35+ hours a week. You don’t have to live with or be related to them.
gov.uk/carers-allowance
Pension Credit
Tops up income for people over State Pension age — and can open the door to other help. Worth checking even if you think you won’t qualify.
gov.uk/pension-credit
Council Tax Reduction
You may pay less Council Tax on a low income, or get a discount if someone in the home has a severe illness. Ask your council.
NHS-funded Nursing Care
If you’re in a nursing home and need a nurse’s input, the NHS pays a set weekly amount towards it, whatever your savings.
Not sure what you can claim? Use a free benefits calculator
These free, confidential tools check dozens of benefits in a few minutes. Have your income, savings and Council Tax bill to hand.
Where to get free help
These national services are free, confidential and independent. Calls to 0800 and 0808 numbers are free from UK mobiles and landlines.