How to Fund Care in Norfolk: A Clear Guide to Council Support

Organising care for yourself or a loved one can feel overwhelming — especially when it comes to paying for it. If you live in Norfolk, you may be entitled to support through Norfolk County Council — but knowing where to start makes all the difference.

This guide breaks everything down clearly so you can understand your options, take the right steps, and feel confident about the care journey ahead.

Step 1: Get a Care Act Assessment

The very first step is to arrange a Care Act Assessment — a free conversation with a trained social care professional to help understand your needs.

This assessment will explore:

  • How you manage daily activities (e.g. eating, washing, dressing)
  • Your safety, mobility, and support network
  • What matters most to you in terms of independence and wellbeing

The assessment will result in a personalised care plan and determine whether you’re eligible for support.

How to request an assessment:

Step 2: Financial Assessment – Will the Council Help Pay?

If you’re eligible for care, the next step is a Financial Assessment (also known as a means test). This determines how much you may need to pay toward your care and how much the council may cover.

Key thresholds:

  • Savings over £23,250– You’ll pay the full cost of your care
  • Savings under £23,250– You may receive full or partial funding, depending on your income and assets

The council will look at:

  • Your savings and investments
  • Your income (e.g. pensions, benefits)
  • Property (for residential care)

Learn more: Will I have to pay for my care?

Step 3: What Kind of Care Can Be Funded?

Norfolk County Council funds a variety of care options depending on your needs and situation.

  1. a) Home Care (Non-Residential)

If you remain at home, you may receive help with:

  • Personal care
  • Daily living tasks
  • Medication support
  • Equipment and home adaptations

Your contribution will be based on your financial assessment.

More info: If we contribute to your care costs

  1. b) Residential and Nursing Care

If you need to move into a care or nursing home, the council will consider:

  • The value of your property
  • Your total income and assets
  • Whether anyone still lives in your home (e.g. a spouse)

You might also be eligible for a Deferred Payment Agreement — more on that below.

More info: Will I have to sell my home to pay for my care home costs?

Step 4: Direct Payments – More Control, More Choice

If you’re eligible for council support, you don’t have to accept care arranged by the council. Instead, you can choose to receive Direct Payments.

This means:

  • You receive the care funding yourself
  • You choose your own carers or agencies
  • You manage your support budget directly

Direct Payments give you more control over your care — and can be tailored to your lifestyle and preferences.

Learn more: Direct Payment Support Service

Step 5: Deferred Payment Agreements – Delay Selling Your Home

If most of your money is tied up in property and you’re moving into a care home, you may qualify for a Deferred Payment Agreement (DPA).

A DPA lets you:

  • Defer selling your home to pay for care
  • Have the council cover your care fees in the meantime
  • Repay them later, usually when the property is sold

This option gives families time to plan without being forced into immediate property sales.

Full info: Will I have to sell my home to pay for my care home costs?

Step 6: Don’t Forget Support for Carers

Carer’s Assessments

If someone provides regular unpaid care for you, they may be eligible for their own Carer’s Assessment.

This could lead to:

  • Respite breaks
  • Practical support
  • Training or financial help

Details: Support for Carers

Other Benefits You Might Be Entitled To

Even if you’re paying for your own care, you may qualify for:

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

Explore: If you pay for your own care

Step 7: Independent Financial Advice

Funding care is a big decision — especially if it involves savings, investments, or property. Norfolk County Council recommends getting advice from a regulated financial adviser before making major choices.

A good adviser can help you:

  • Understand your funding options
  • Plan for long-term care
  • Make informed decisions about property and inheritance

More info: If you pay for your own care

How Care with Confidence Can Help — For Free

At Care with Confidence, we know the paperwork, processes, and choices can quickly feel overwhelming. That’s why we created this guide — to be your starting point and your steady hand.

We’re here to:

  • Talk through your funding options
  • Help you understand what you’re entitled to
  • Support you after hours — when it suits your life

hello@bigsistercare.com
www.bigsistercare.com

Whether you’re at the very beginning or already deep in the process, you don’t need to figure it all out alone.

In Summary: Your Norfolk Care Funding Checklist

  • Download Guide
  • Book a Care Act Assessment
  • Complete a Financial Assessment
  • Explore your care options — home or residential
  • Consider Direct Paymentsfor greater control
  • Ask about Deferred Payment Agreementsif you own property
  • Ensure carers receive a Carer’s Assessment
  • Check for benefits and allowances
  • Get independent financial advice
  • Contact Care with Confidencefor one-to-one support

Whatever stage you’re at, we’re here to help you move forward — with confidence.