Funding Care Homes in England

Updated 30 October 2026 · Educational resource

Paying for a care home in England depends on the person’s income, savings, and care needs. Some people self-fund entirely, while others receive financial support from their local authority. The rules are set out in national guidance and applied by local councils.

Means testing

Local authorities carry out a financial assessment. People with capital above a certain threshold are usually expected to pay the full cost of their care. Those below the threshold may receive help with fees, subject to a contribution based on income. The exact thresholds and rules are updated periodically and can be found on the GOV.UK website or through the local council.

NHS continuing healthcare

In some cases, people with a primary health need may qualify for NHS continuing healthcare, which can cover the full cost of care in a nursing home. Eligibility is determined through a structured assessment and is not based on diagnosis alone. Families should ask the local NHS integrated care board or hospital discharge team about the process if the person’s needs are primarily health-related.

Disclaimer: Funding rules change and depend on individual circumstances. This page is general information only. Contact your local authority or an independent financial adviser for current advice.

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