Funding Care in East Sussex: A Simple, Clear Guide for Families

When someone you love needs care, navigating the funding system can feel like an overwhelming maze. You may be wondering: Do we qualify for help? Who do I speak to? Will we have to sell the house? If you live in East Sussex, this blog is here to answer your questions, step-by-step.

This guide explains how East Sussex County Council supports care funding, what assessments are involved, and how to access help — so you can move forward with confidence.

Step 1: Start with a Care Needs Assessment

The first step is always a Care Needs Assessment, which is free and available to any adult in East Sussex who may need help with daily living.

The assessment looks at your:

  • Personal care needs (washing, dressing, eating)
  • Safety and mobility at home
  • Mental wellbeing and independence
  • Support from family or friends

This is more than a form — it’s a conversation about how to improve your quality of life and independence. It also forms the basis for any funding the council may provide.

How to request an assessment:

Step 2: Financial Assessment (Means Test)

If you’re eligible for care, the next step is a Financial Assessment, also known as a means test. This determines how much of your care costs you’ll be asked to pay.

The council will review your:

  • Income(pensions, benefits, savings interest)
  • Savings and assets
  • Living costs and disability-related expenses

Key thresholds:

  • Savings over £23,250:You’ll pay the full cost of your care.
  • Savings below £23,250:You may qualify for full or partial support.

For more details, see the council’s leaflet: What You Will Need to Pay

Step 3: Types of Care and Associated Costs

East Sussex County Council supports different types of care depending on your needs.

Home Care (Non-Residential)

If you’re receiving care at home, the council will assess what services are needed and how much they will cost. For self-funding clients, expect to pay around £30 per hour for home support services.

Details: How Much Care Costs

Residential and Nursing Care

If you’re moving into a care home or nursing facility, the council will carry out a separate financial assessment. Your home may be included in this calculation — unless certain exemptions apply (e.g. your spouse still lives there).

More info: Paying for Care

Step 4: Direct Payments – Take Control of Your Care

If you’re eligible for council funding, you can choose to receive it as a Direct Payment. This means:

  • The money is paid directly to you
  • You can hire your own carers or personal assistants
  • You control when and how your care is delivered

This is ideal if you want flexibility and more personal choice.

Read more: A Guide to Adult Social Care and Health

 

Step 5: Deferred Payment Agreements

If you’re moving into a care home but don’t want to sell your house immediately, you might qualify for a Deferred Payment Agreement.

This scheme allows you to:

  • Delay selling your property
  • Let the council cover the cost of care
  • Repay the council later, usually when your property is sold

This option offers families peace of mind when facing big financial decisions.

Details: Paying for Care

Step 6: Additional Support and Benefits

Carer’s Assessments

If you care for someone regularly, you may be eligible for your own Carer’s Assessment. This can lead to:

  • Practical support and training
  • Financial help or respite care
  • Guidance to protect your own wellbeing

Learn more in the Adult Social Care Guide

Benefits You May Be Missing

You or your loved one may also qualify for benefits that can make a big difference to your financial situation. These could include:

  • Attendance Allowance
  • Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
  • Carer’s Allowance
  • Pension Credit

Check the council’s site for updates: Paying for Care

Step 7: Seek Independent Financial Advice

Paying for care is a big decision, especially if property or inheritance is involved. That’s why it’s strongly recommended to speak with a regulated financial adviser, especially when considering options like:

  • Equity release
  • Deferred payment schemes
  • Long-term financial planning

You can find useful resources and contact info on the Paying for Care page.

How Care with Confidence Can Help — For Free

At Care with Confidence, we know how stressful this can feel. It’s not just paperwork — it’s your family, your future, and your peace of mind.

That’s why we’re here to help:

  • With plain-English advice on funding care in East Sussex
  • To answer your questions after hours, when the house is quiet
  • Whether you want to read guides or just talk it through on the phone

hello@bigsistercare.com
www.bigsistercare.com

We don’t believe in pressure. Just friendly, supportive guidance, when you need it most.

In Summary

Here’s your action plan if you’re looking for care funding in East Sussex:

  1. Download Guide
  2. Request a Care Needs Assessment
  3. Complete a Financial Assessment
  4. Explore home careor residential care
  5. Consider Direct Paymentsor a Deferred Payment Agreement
  6. Don’t forget about Carer’s Assessments
  7. Check for benefits and allowances
  8. Get independent financial advice
  9. Contact Care with Confidencefor support — at any stage

You don’t need to figure it all out alone. We’re here to help you move forward — with clarity, empathy, and confidence.