When someone you love needs care, it’s not just the emotional decisions that weigh heavy — it’s the practical ones too. If you live in Oxfordshire, the good news is that Oxfordshire County Council offers funding support for a range of adult care services. But understanding the system, the process, and what you’re entitled to can feel overwhelming.

This guide is here to walk you through everything — from the first call to the final decision — so you can feel clear, supported, and confident.

Step 1: Care Needs Assessment – The First (and Most Important) Step

Before you can access funding or support, Oxfordshire County Council will carry out a Care Needs Assessment. This is a free, detailed conversation with a social care professional to understand what kind of help you need.

They’ll ask about:

Your physical and emotional health
Daily tasks you find difficult
What care or support you already have
Your goals for independence and wellbeing

How to request an assessment:

Online:Visit the Adult Social Care page
Phone:Call the Social and Health Care team on 0345 050 7666

This is your starting point for all future support and funding — so don’t skip it.

Step 2: Financial Assessment – What Will You Pay?

Once your care needs are confirmed, the council will carry out a Financial Assessment (means test) to determine whether you’re eligible for funding — and how much you’ll need to contribute.

Key thresholds:

Savings over £23,250→ You’ll need to pay for your own care.
Savings between £14,250 and £23,250→ You may contribute part of the cost.
Savings under £14,250→ You may qualify for maximum support, contributing only from income.

This assessment considers your income, savings, and property (for residential care). It’s fair and transparent — and essential to get things moving.

Learn more: Guide to Paying for Your Care

Step 3: The Types of Care That Can Be Funded

a) Home Care (Non-Residential)

If you want to stay in your own home, the council may help fund:

Daily carer visits
Medication support
Help with cooking, washing, or dressing
Equipment or adaptations

More details: Paying for Care at Home

b) Residential and Nursing Care

If you need full-time support, a separate financial assessment applies. If you own a home, its value may be taken into account — unless a spouse or dependent lives there.

Step 4: Direct Payments – Take Control of Your Care

If you qualify for council funding, you don’t have to accept services arranged by the council. You can opt for Direct Payments, which means:

You receive the funds directly
You choose your own care providers
You manage your care plan in a way that works for you

This option is great for those who want choice and flexibility.

Learn more: Direct Payments

Step 5: Deferred Payment Agreements – Don’t Rush to Sell Your Home

If your money is tied up in property and you’re moving into a care home, Oxfordshire County Council offers a Deferred Payment Agreement.

This allows you to:

Delay selling your home
Let the council pay your care fees now
Repay them later, typically when your home is sold

More info: Deferred Payment Scheme

Step 6: Additional Support You Might Not Know About

Carer’s Assessments

If someone provides regular care for you — unpaid — they may be eligible for their own Carer’s Assessment. This could lead to:

Respite breaks
Practical or emotional support
Equipment or training

Info: Adult Social Care Page

Benefits You May Be Entitled To

Even if you’re not eligible for full council funding, you might still qualify for:

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

See: Paying for Social Care

Step 7: Get Independent Financial Advice

Making decisions about funding care — especially if property or large savings are involved — is a big deal. That’s why Oxfordshire County Council recommends speaking with a regulated financial adviser.

A good adviser can help you:

Understand your options
Plan for long-term care costs
Protect your family’s financial wellbeing

More support: Guide to Paying for Your Care

How Care with Confidence Can Help — For Free

At Care with Confidence, we understand that it’s not just about finances — it’s about people, families, and the peace of mind that comes with making informed choices.

That’s why we:

Speak to families every day about their care funding journeys
Answer questions in plain English (no jargon, no pressure)
Offer free support — even out of hours, when the house is quiet and the paperwork feels overwhelming

Whether you want to read through this guide or would rather just talk it through, we’re here.

hello@bigsistercare.com
www.bigsistercare.com

In Summary: Your Oxfordshire Checklist