How to Fund Care in West Sussex: A Simple Guide for Families

If you or someone you love needs care, the first question is often: How do we pay for it? Navigating care funding can feel confusing — especially when you’re trying to make the best decision in a short space of time.

The good news is that West Sussex County Council offers support for a range of care services, whether you’re looking at staying at home, moving into residential care, or exploring flexible options like Direct Payments. This blog breaks down everything you need to know so you can feel informed, empowered, and — most importantly — confident.

Step 1: Begin with a Care Needs Assessment

Everything starts with a Care Needs Assessment, which is a free service offered by West Sussex County Council. This assessment helps determine what support you need in your day-to-day life.

During the assessment, a trained adult social care professional will talk through:

  • Your current routines and daily challenges
  • Any health or mobility concerns
  • The type of support you already receive
  • Your goals for staying independent and safe

How to book your assessment:

Step 2: Financial Assessment – Will You Have to Pay?

Once your care needs are confirmed, the council will carry out a Financial Assessment (means test) to determine how much support you’re entitled to — and what you might need to contribute.

Key thresholds:

  • Savings over £23,250→ You’ll be expected to pay the full cost of your care
  • Savings between £14,250 and £23,250→ You’ll pay a partial amount, based on income
  • Savings under £14,250→ You may qualify for full support, contributing only from your income

Full details: Financial Assessment

Step 3: What Types of Care Can Be Funded?

  1. a) Home Care (Non-Residential)

If you remain in your own home, the council may fund support such as:

  • Daily visits from carers
  • Help with washing, dressing, and meals
  • Equipment and minor adaptations

More info: Paying for Care in Your Home or Local Community

  1. b) Residential and Nursing Care

If you need full-time support in a care home or nursing facility, a different financial assessment applies. The value of your property may be included unless a partner or dependent lives there.

Learn more: Paying for Residential Care

Step 4: Direct Payments – Take Control of Your Care

Want more control over who provides your care and when? If you’re eligible for funding, you can choose to receive Direct Payments instead.

This allows you to:

  • Choose your own carers
  • Use your budget in a way that suits your lifestyle
  • Arrange support in line with your personal needs

Learn more: Your Personal Budget

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

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

This lets the council:

  • Pay your care costs now
  • Recover the funds later, usually after your home is sold

This helps take the pressure off making big financial decisions in a hurry.

Details: Deferred Payment Scheme

Step 6: Additional Help You May Be Missing

Carer’s Assessments

If someone provides regular unpaid care for you, they may be entitled to their own Carer’s Assessment — which could lead to:

  • Emotional or mental health support
  • Respite breaks
  • Financial help

Info: Carers’ Benefits

Benefits and Extra Financial Support

Even if you’re paying for care yourself, you may be eligible for:

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

Visit: Benefits and Payments Checklist

Step 7: Speak to a Financial Adviser

Funding care is a big decision. West Sussex County Council recommends speaking to a regulated financial adviser, particularly if your situation involves:

  • Property and inheritance
  • Equity release
  • Deferred payment planning

They can help you weigh up your options, protect family assets, and plan for the long term.

Explore: Carewise Care Funding Scheme

How Care with Confidence Can Help — For Free

We understand that managing care funding can feel like navigating a maze. At Care with Confidence, we’re here to be your guide — offering calm, expert support when you need it most.

We offer:

  • Free advice on how to access council support
  • Help understanding forms and processes
  • Evening and weekend support — for when the house is finally quiet

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

You don’t have to wade through pages of policies alone — and if you’d rather chat it through than read it all, that’s perfectly fine too.

In Summary: Your West Sussex Care Funding Checklist

  • Download Guide
  • Book a Care Needs Assessment
  • Complete your Financial Assessment
  • Decide on your care setting — home or residential
  • Explore Direct Paymentsif you want more control
  • Ask about a Deferred Payment Agreementif you own property
  • Make sure your carer receives a Carer’s Assessment
  • Check for benefits and financial entitlements
  • Speak to a regulated financial adviser
  • Contact Care with Confidenceat any point

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