When it comes to arranging care for yourself or someone you love, understanding the financial side is often one of the biggest challenges. Whether you’re looking into home support, residential care, or simply want to explore your options, the good news is that Northumberland County Council offers support to help manage the cost of care.

This blog provides a step-by-step breakdown of how to access funding through the council — so you can make informed, confident decisions about your care journey.

Step 1: Start with a Care Needs Assessment

The very first step in the care funding process is to have a Care Needs Assessment. This is a free evaluation of your day-to-day needs and challenges, carried out by a trained adult social care professional.

The assessment explores:

Your ability to manage daily tasks (washing, cooking, moving around)
Any support you already have in place
What’s important to you and your quality of life
Potential safety risks or mobility concerns

This conversation ensures your care plan is tailored to your individual needs and circumstances.

How to request an assessment:

Phone:Call Northumberland’s Adult Social Care team on 01670 536400
Online:Visit Care and Support for Adults

Step 2: Financial Assessment – What Will You Pay?

Once your care needs are confirmed, the council will conduct a Financial Assessment (also known as a means test). This determines how much you can afford to contribute toward your care, and how much support the council can provide.

Key thresholds:

Savings over £23,250→ You will be expected to pay the full cost of your care.
Savings between £14,250 and £23,250→ You’ll pay a contribution based on your financial situation.
Savings below £14,250→ You may qualify for maximum support, contributing only from your income.

The council will also consider your income (pensions, benefits) and, in the case of residential care, the value of your home.

Learn more: Paying for Care and Support

Step 3: What Types of Care Can Be Funded?

Home Care (Non-Residential)

If you’re receiving care in your own home, the council may contribute towards:

Help with personal hygiene
Assistance with meals or mobility
Daily visits from carers or personal assistants

Your financial contribution will be calculated after the means test.

Find more info on the Paying for Care and Support page.

Residential and Nursing Care

If you need to move into a care home, a separate financial assessment applies. The council will look at:

Your overall assets and income
The value of your property (unless a partner or dependent still lives there)

For details: Charges for Living in a Care Home

Step 4: Direct Payments – Your Budget, Your Choice

If you qualify for council support, you can opt to receive your funding as a Direct Payment — allowing you to take control of your own care.

With Direct Payments:

You receive the money directly
You choose who delivers your care
You organise the support on your own terms

This option works well for those who want more flexibility or already have a trusted care provider.

Learn more: What is a Direct Payment?

Step 5: Deferred Payment Agreements – Don’t Sell Your Home Straight Away

If you’re entering a care home and most of your assets are tied up in your property, you may be eligible for a Deferred Payment Agreement (DPA).

This lets the council:

Pay for your care upfront
Reclaim the costs later (usually when the property is sold)

A DPA offers peace of mind, giving you and your family time to make important decisions without rushing.

More info: Charges for Living in a Care Home

Step 6: Don’t Forget Support for Carers

Carer’s Support Fund

If someone provides regular unpaid care for you, they may be eligible for help through the Carer’s Support Fund. This might include:

Practical assistance
Emotional support
Respite breaks
Financial help

Learn more: Carer Support Fund

Benefits and Extra Help

You might also qualify for:

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

These benefits can make a big difference, even if you’re self-funding part of your care.

Info: Paying for Care and Support

Step 7: Seek Independent Financial Advice

When it comes to long-term care, it’s important to make informed choices. Northumberland County Council recommends speaking to a regulated financial adviser before making major decisions involving:

Property
Inheritance planning
Savings and investments

Resources: How to Get Independent Financial Advice

How Care with Confidence Can Help — For Free

At Care with Confidence, we know that care funding decisions can feel daunting — especially when you’re juggling emotional stress, tight deadlines, or a mountain of information.

That’s why we’re here. We provide: