How to Fund Care in Hampshire: A Step-by-Step Guide for Families

Navigating the adult social care system can feel like a maze — especially when you’re trying to figure out how to pay for it. Whether you’re planning care for yourself, a parent, or a loved one, knowing where to start and what help is available can make a world of difference.

This blog breaks down exactly how Hampshire County Council can support you in funding care, from assessments and financial thresholds to direct payments and support for carers. It’s clear, simple, and designed to help you feel confident in the decisions ahead.

Step 1: Start with a Care Needs Assessment

The very first step is to understand what kind of help is actually needed. That’s where the Care Needs Assessment comes in. This is a free service provided by Hampshire County Council to anyone who might need care.

It covers things like:

  • Personal care needs (e.g. bathing, dressing)
  • Meal preparation and nutrition
  • Medication and health management
  • Safety and wellbeing at home
  • Social engagement and mobility

This assessment is usually carried out by a trained adult social care professional, either in person or over the phone.

How to request an assessment:

Step 2: Financial Assessment – How Much Will You Pay?

Once your care needs are established, the next step is a Financial Assessment (also called a means test). This tells you how much the council will contribute and how much (if anything) you’ll need to pay yourself.

Key financial thresholds:

  • Savings over £23,250: You’ll be expected to pay for all your care.
  • Savings between £14,250 and £23,250: You may be asked to contribute part of the cost.
  • Savings below £14,250: You could qualify for maximum support, contributing only from income.

This assessment includes your income, savings, investments, and, in some cases, the value of your property.

Learn more: Financial Assessment – Hampshire

Step 3: Types of Care and What It Costs

  1. a) Home Care (Non-Residential)

If you’re receiving care in your own home — such as help with meals, washing, or getting around — the council will assess what services you need and how much they cost.

Find more info here: Paying for Care at Home

  1. b) Residential and Nursing Care

If you need full-time care in a care home or nursing home, a separate financial assessment will apply. If you own a property, its value may be counted unless your spouse or another dependent still lives there.

More details here: Paying in a Care Home

Step 4: Direct Payments – More Control, More Flexibility

If you qualify for funding, you can choose to receive a Direct Payment instead of having the council arrange services on your behalf. This puts you in the driver’s seat — giving you the freedom to:

  • Choose your own care providers
  • Hire personal assistants
  • Plan support around your lifestyle and preferences

You still have to use the money for your agreed care needs, but you’ll have more say over how and when it’s spent.

More information here: Direct Payments

Step 5: Deferred Payment Agreements

If most of your assets are tied up in your property and you’re moving into a care home, Hampshire offers a Deferred Payment Agreement.

This allows the council to:

  • Pay your care fees upfront
  • Recover the costs later when your property is sold

This gives you time to make decisions about your home and finances without the pressure of immediate selling.

Read more: Deferred Payments

Step 6: Extra Help You May Be Missing

Carer’s Assessment

If you’re providing regular, unpaid care for someone else, you can request a Carer’s Assessment. This looks at how caring affects your life and what help you might need.

Support could include:

  • Respite care or breaks
  • Training or practical help
  • Emotional and financial support

Apply here: Carers’ Assessment – Hampshire

Benefits and Financial Help

Even if you don’t qualify for full funding, you might still be eligible for benefits such as:

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

Check what’s available: Connect to Support Hampshire

Step 7: Independent Financial Advice

Care funding is a big decision, especially when property and inheritance are involved. That’s why Hampshire County Council encourages families to speak with an independent financial adviser who specialises in social care.

This can help you explore:

  • Long-term care plans
  • Deferred payment options
  • Protecting family assets

How Care with Confidence Can Help — For Free

We know this isn’t just about money. It’s about people, relationships, and doing the best for those you love. That’s why Care with Confidence is here to support you — every step of the way.

Here’s how we help:

  • We answer your questions clearly, with no jargon
  • We talk through funding options and what’s right for you
  • We’re available after hours, when the house is quiet and you finally have time

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

Whether you want to talk it through or just need someone to listen, we’re here.

In Summary: Your Hampshire Funding Checklist

  • Download Guide
  • Request a Care Needs Assessment
  • Complete a Financial Assessment
  • Explore home care or residential care options
  • Consider Direct Paymentsfor flexibility
  • Look into Deferred Payment Agreementsif property is involved
  • Ask for a Carer’s Assessmentif you’re supporting someone else
  • Check for benefitsyou may be entitled to
  • Get independent financial advice
  • Reach out to Care with Confidenceat any time

You don’t have to do this alone. With the right support and the right information, you can move forward — with confidence.