Funding Care in Leicestershire: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Council Support

Planning care for yourself or a loved one is a big decision — and for many families, one of the most pressing questions is: How will we afford it? Whether you’re looking for help at home or considering full-time residential care, understanding the support available through Leicestershire County Council is key to moving forward with clarity and confidence.

This guide breaks down the care funding process step by step — from the first assessment to financial options like Direct Payments and Deferred Payment Agreements. You’ll also find links to key resources and advice tailored for Leicestershire residents.

Step 1: It All Begins with a Care and Support Assessment

If you’re seeking help with care, your first step is to book a Care and Support Assessment. This is a free service from Leicestershire County Council that helps determine:

  • What kind of care and support you need
  • What you’re already doing to manage
  • Whether you qualify for help from the council

A social care professional will talk with you about your needs, lifestyle, and any challenges you’re facing. It’s a holistic, respectful process — designed to build a care plan that works for you.

How to request your assessment:

Step 2: Financial Assessment – What Will You Need to Contribute?

If your care needs are confirmed, the council will carry out a Financial Assessment (means test) to figure out how much you’ll need to contribute to your care — if anything.

Key thresholds in Leicestershire:

  • Over £23,250 in savings?You’ll be asked to pay the full cost of your care.
  • Savings between £14,250 and £23,250?You may pay a portion of your care costs.
  • Savings under £14,250?You may qualify for maximum support, contributing only from your income.

The financial assessment will consider:

  • Income (pensions, benefits, etc.)
  • Capital and savings
  • Property (only in residential care cases)

Full details: Paying for Care

Step 3: What Type of Care Can Be Funded?

Leicestershire County Council supports a range of care services — depending on your needs and where you’re living.

  1. a) Home Care (Non-Residential)

If you’re staying at home, the council may fund services such as:

  • Personal care (e.g. washing, dressing)
  • Help with meals, shopping, and medication
  • Equipment or home adaptations

Info: Financial Assessment for Care at Home

  1. b) Residential and Nursing Care

If you’re moving into a care or nursing home, the council will carry out a residential care financial assessment. If you own property, it may be taken into account — unless a partner or close relative still lives there.

Info: Financial Assessment for a Care Home

Step 4: Choose Direct Payments for More Flexibility

If you’re eligible for funding, you don’t have to accept the care services arranged by the council. Instead, you can request Direct Payments — giving you control over your own care.

This means:

  • The money is paid directly to you
  • You choose your carers or agencies
  • You manage the budget (with help, if needed)

It’s ideal for people who want a tailored, flexible approach to care.

Learn more: Direct Payments

Step 5: Consider a Deferred Payment Agreement

If you’re moving into a care home but your assets are mostly tied up in your home, you may be eligible for a Deferred Payment Agreement (DPA).

This means:

  • The council covers your care costs now
  • You repay them later (typically after your home is sold)

It’s a great option if you don’t want to sell your home immediately.

Details: Using Your Home to Pay for a Care Home

Step 6: Support for Carers and Benefits You Might Be Missing

Carer’s Assessments

If someone provides regular, unpaid care for you, they might be eligible for their own Carer’s Assessment. This looks at:

  • The impact of caring on their wellbeing
  • What support they need (e.g. respite, financial help)

More info: What is a Carer’s Assessment?

Benefits and Additional Support

Even if you’re not eligible for full council funding, you may still qualify for benefits such as:

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

Find out more: Paying for Your Care and Support

Step 7: Get Independent Financial Advice

If your care needs involve large sums of money, property, or inheritance planning, it’s wise to speak to a regulated financial adviser. They can:

  • Help you make informed decisions
  • Guide you through complex care funding rules
  • Protect your family’s future

The council’s Paying for Care page includes links to helpful resources.

How Care with Confidence Can Help — For Free

At Care with Confidence, we know that this journey can feel overwhelming. You’re not just thinking about money — you’re making emotional, life-changing decisions.

That’s why we’re here.

We offer:

  • Free, plain-English guidance
  • A friendly voice when you need to talk it through
  • Support after hours — when the house is quiet, and you’ve got time to breathe

Email: hello@bigsistercare.com
Visit: www.bigsistercare.com

Whether you’re planning ahead or in a moment of crisis, we’re here — with kindness, clarity, and compassion.

In Summary: Your Leicestershire Care Funding Checklist

  • Download Guide
  • Book a Care and Support Assessment
  • Complete your Financial Assessment
  • Choose between home careor residential care
  • Consider Direct Paymentsfor flexibility
  • Explore Deferred Payment Agreementsif you own property
  • Ensure your carer gets a Carer’s Assessment
  • Check your eligibility for benefits and allowances
  • Speak to a financial adviserif needed
  • Contact Care with Confidencefor personalised support

 

You don’t need to figure it all out alone. Let’s move forward — together, and with confidence.