How to Obtain Funding for Social Care in Preston and England

Obtaining financial support for adult social care in England can seem complex, but with the right guidance and knowledge, the process becomes more accessible. This guide aims to break down the key steps involved in determining eligibility and applying for adult social care funding and how Caremark Preston can help.

What is Adult Social Care?

Adult social care provides vital assistance to individuals who need help due to age, physical or mental health conditions, or long-term disabilities. This can include support with daily tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, managing medications, or accessing medical services. Services may be delivered in a variety of ways, including personal care, home care, or residential support.

Categories of Social Financing

There are several funding options for adult social care, each with different eligibility criteria and application processes. These include:

• Local Authority Funding
• NHS Continuing Healthcare
• Personal Health Budgets
• Direct Payments

How to Assess Your Eligibility

Here are the essential steps to follow when trying to determine your eligibility for adult social care funding:

1. Evaluate Your Care Needs
   The first step in accessing funding is assessing your care requirements. Local authorities conduct needs assessments to understand the level of support you require. This process looks at how well you can carry out daily activities and examines your mental and physical health. Caremark Preston can assist you by providing a professional needs assessment and outlining the funding options available.
2. Understand the Eligibility Criteria
   After the needs assessment, the local authority will apply the eligibility guidelines set out in the Care Act 2014. You may be eligible for support if:
   • You require assistance with essential daily tasks such as personal care, managing medications, or moving around.
   • You would experience a significant impact on your wellbeing if your needs are not addressed.
3. Financial Assessment
   If you are deemed eligible for support, you will then undergo a financial assessment to determine how much you need to contribute towards your care costs. This financial test evaluates:
   • Income: This includes wages, benefits, and pensions.
   • Savings and Assets: Any savings, property, or investments you hold, including your home if you require residential care.
   The thresholds for financial assessments are as follows:
   • Below £14,250: You may be entitled to maximum support.
   • Between £14,250 and £23,250: A partial contribution may be required.
   • Above £23,250: You will be expected to cover the full cost of care.
4. NHS Continuing Healthcare
   If your primary care needs are health-related, you may qualify for NHS Continuing Healthcare, a fully funded support package. This is for individuals who require significant, ongoing medical care, and eligibility is determined through a detailed assessment by healthcare professionals.
5. Personal Health Budgets and Direct Payments
   For those who meet the criteria, personal health budgets or direct payments can provide more control over how and where your care is delivered. These options allow you to manage your own care and decide who provides it.

Appealing and Complaining About Assessments

If you disagree with the results of your needs or financial assessment, you have the right to appeal the decision. This can be done through the complaints process of your local authority or, if necessary, by contacting the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman for further review.

How to Request a Needs Assessment

To begin the process, contact your local council or reach out to Caremark Preston to request a free needs assessment. This assessment, performed by a trained social worker, is essential for determining the level of care you need and helping you navigate the next steps in securing funding.

Conclusion

Navigating adult social care funding in England involves several stages: assessing care needs, meeting eligibility criteria, undergoing financial evaluations, and exploring additional options such as NHS Continuing Healthcare. By understanding the process and reaching out early for support, you can ensure that you receive the care you need.

For more information or personalized guidance, get in touch with Caremark Preston. Their expert team can assist with everything from needs assessments to exploring the funding options available for you. You can contact Caremark Preston for more information and assistance by visiting our website or calling directly.

You may also find further helpful resources on the following websites:

• Caremark Preston
• House of Commons Library
• GOV.UK
• National Health Executive
• Community Care
• Preston City Council
• Help in Preston

By reaching out to Caremark Preston or other trusted organizations, you can receive valuable support in navigating the complexities of adult social care funding.