Realising that a loved one needs care can feel overwhelming. Alongside emotional concerns, families are often faced with unfamiliar systems, complex terminology and uncertainty around funding. Here at Cherubim Care Services, we regularly support families through this journey and work closely with individuals, relatives and local authorities to make the process clearer, calmer and more manageable.
This guide explains local authority funding for care in England and how Cherubim can support you at every stage (this is just a guide and the process may differ based on your location).
What Is Local Authority Funded Care?
Local authority funding means your council may contribute towards the cost of care if a person has eligible care needs and meets the financial criteria. This support can apply to care delivered at home, supported living or other community-based settings.
Under the Care Act 2014, councils have a legal duty to assess anyone who appears to need care and support. Funding is not automatic, but an assessment must be offered regardless of income or savings.
We help families understand whether local authority funding may be appropriate and what steps to take next.
Step One: Requesting a Care Needs Assessment
The first step is a care needs assessment carried out by your local council. This assessment looks at how health conditions, disability or frailty affect daily life, including personal care, safety, mobility, medication, meals and emotional wellbeing.
The assessment can be completed at home, over the phone or in another suitable setting. Family members are encouraged to be involved.
How Cherubim helps
We can talk you through what the assessment involves, help you prepare key information, and support you to clearly explain your loved one’s needs. If Cherubim is already providing support privately, we can share relevant observations with consent.
Step Two: Eligibility Decision
Following the assessment, the council decides whether the person meets the national eligibility criteria. If eligible, a care and support plan is created, outlining what support is needed and how outcomes will be met.
Step Three: Financial Assessment
Once care needs are confirmed, the council completes a financial assessment to determine how much funding is available and whether the individual must contribute.
In England, if savings are:
- Below £14,250, no contribution is usually required from capital
- Between £14,250 and £23,250, a contribution may be required
- Above £23,250, care is usually self-funded
For care provided at home, the value of the property is generally not included.
Direct Payments and Choice
Many people receive funding through direct payments, allowing them to choose their care provider and manage support in a way that suits them.
If You Don’t Qualify for Funding
Even if someone does not meet funding criteria, councils must still provide advice and guidance. Many families choose to start with private care and later transition to funded support if circumstances change.
How Cherubim helps
We offer transparent advice, flexible care packages and support with future planning. If funding becomes available later, we can help manage a smooth transition.
Our Commitment to Families
We believe care should be human, respectful and empowering. We work alongside families not just as a care provider, but as a trusted partner navigating systems, decisions and change.
If you are considering care for a loved one and are unsure where to begin, our team is always happy to talk, explain options and guide you through the next steps.
