When you or someone you love needs care, it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed — especially when you start looking into how to pay for it. But if you live in Surrey, you have access to a range of support from Surrey County Council. The key is knowing where to start, and what you’re entitled to.

This blog is here to help you every step of the way — so you can make informed decisions, feel supported, and move forward with confidence.

Step 1: Begin with a Care Needs Assessment

Your journey starts with a Care Needs Assessment. This is a free assessment offered by Surrey County Council to determine your eligibility for care.

A social care professional will talk with you (or your loved one) about:

The daily activities you struggle with (e.g. bathing, cooking, mobility)
Your physical and emotional wellbeing
Any risks at home or in your current living situation
What support could help you live more independently

How to book an assessment:

Phone:Call Adult Social Care on 0300 200 1005
Online:Visit the Adult Social Care and Support page

This assessment helps create a personalised care plan and unlocks the pathway to funding and services.

Step 2: Financial Assessment – What Will You Pay?

Once your care needs are established, Surrey County Council will carry out a Financial Assessment (means test) to understand whether you qualify for funding — and what your contribution will be.

Key thresholds:

Savings over £24,500:You’ll be expected to pay the full cost of care
Savings below £24,500:You may be eligible for support, with a contribution calculated based on your income and assets

For full guidance: Getting a Financial Assessment

Step 3: What Types of Care Can Be Funded?

Surrey County Council funds a wide range of care services, depending on your needs and preferences.

a) Home Care (Non-Residential)

If you remain at home, support might include:

Personal care (e.g. dressing, washing, medication)
Equipment and home adaptations
Support with meals or household tasks

Learn more: Paying for Care in Your Home

b) Residential and Nursing Care

If you’re moving into a care home, a different financial assessment applies. If you own property, its value may be considered — unless a spouse or dependent is still living there.

Info: Paying for Residential Services

Step 4: Direct Payments – More Choice, More Control

If you’re eligible for funding, you don’t have to use council-arranged services. Instead, you can choose Direct Payments, which allow you to:

Receive the funds directly
Hire carers or agencies you trust
Tailor your support to your personal needs and routines

Full guidance: Arranging and Paying for Care Yourself

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

If most of your money is tied up in property and you’re moving into a care home, Surrey County Council offers Deferred Payment Agreements (DPA).

With a DPA:

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

This gives families time to make the right decisions, without pressure.

Details: What Happens to My Home?

Step 6: Extra Support You May Not Know About

Carer’s Assessments

If someone provides unpaid care for you, they may be entitled to a Carer’s Assessment of their own — to ensure they receive:

Emotional support
Respite breaks
Help balancing their caring responsibilities

More info: Assessing Your Needs

Benefits and Financial Help

Even if you don’t qualify for full council support, you might be eligible for:

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

Visit: Welfare Benefits – Surrey County Council

Step 7: Seek Independent Financial Advice

When care involves property, savings, or inheritance — it’s important to get the right guidance.

Surrey County Council recommends speaking with a regulated independent financial adviser who can:

Explain all your funding options
Help you understand Deferred Payments
Ensure your family’s finances are protected

Learn more: Independent Financial Advice for Adult Care

How Care with Confidence Can Help — For Free

At Care with Confidence, we know how stressful this can feel. You’re already making emotional decisions — you shouldn’t have to navigate complex policies on your own.

That’s why we offer: