When someone you love needs care, one of the first and biggest questions that comes up is, “How will we pay for it?” Whether you’re planning ahead or facing an urgent need, understanding how care is funded — and what help is available from your local authority — is essential.

If you live in Devon, the good news is that Devon County Council offers several types of financial support for eligible residents. In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about funding care through the council, including assessments, thresholds, and your rights as a carer.

Step 1: Care and Support Needs Assessment

Before anything else, the first step in accessing funded care is a Care and Support Needs Assessment.

This is a free process carried out by a social care professional, and it looks at how well you’re coping with day-to-day tasks such as:

Washing, dressing, or preparing meals
Managing medication or mobility issues
Staying safe at home
Feeling socially connected

This conversation helps determine whether you are eligible for care services, and it can also point you toward support you may not realise is available.

How to request an assessment:

Phone:Call Devon County Council’s Adult Social Care team at 0345 155 1007
Online:Care and Support Needs Assessment

You can also use Devon’s online self-help tool to explore available support options before speaking to a team member.

Step 2: Financial Assessment (Means Test)

If the council agrees that you’re eligible for care and support, they will then carry out a Financial Assessment (also called a means test). This determines how much of the care costs you will be expected to cover.

Financial Thresholds in Devon:

Savings over £23,250: You’re expected to pay the full cost of your care.
Savings between £14,250 and £23,250: You’ll pay a portion, based on income and assets.
Savings below £14,250: You may qualify for maximum support and contribute only from your income.

For more detail: How Do I Pay for My Care?

Step 3: Types of Care Covered

Devon County Council funds a variety of care services depending on your needs and the results of your assessment.

Community Care Services (Home Care)

If you are staying at home but need support (such as help with personal care or daily activities), you may be asked to pay a contribution. The exact amount will depend on your financial assessment.

Learn more: Community Care Services Factsheet

Residential and Nursing Care

If you’re moving into a residential or nursing care setting, your home and other assets may be included in your financial assessment. However, if a partner or close relative still lives in your home, exemptions may apply.

More info: Residential Care Factsheet

Step 4: Direct Payments – Flexibility and Choice

If you’re eligible for funding, you don’t have to let the council arrange your care. Instead, you can receive a Direct Payment, which gives you control over how and by whom your care is delivered.

With Direct Payments, you can:

Hire your own care staff or personal assistants
Choose services that fit your preferences
Manage your own budget, with support if needed

Explore more: Direct Payments Guide

Step 5: Top-Up Payments

If you choose a care home that is more expensive than the amount allocated in your personal budget, someone (often a family member) may make a Top-Up Payment to cover the difference.

This is entirely optional and typically applies when you’ve chosen a specific provider with extra facilities or a preferred location.

More info: Top-Up Payments

Step 6: Carer’s Assessments – Don’t Forget About You

If you regularly look after a friend or family member, you may be eligible for a Carer’s Assessment. This is designed to understand how caring is impacting your life — emotionally, physically, and financially.

Depending on the outcome, you may receive:

Practical support (e.g. respite care)
Financial help
Guidance and advice

Carer’s Assessment Page

Step 7: Independent Financial Advice

If your situation involves property, long-term financial planning, or inheritance, the council recommends speaking with an independent financial adviser who specialises in care funding.

They can help you make informed choices, especially if you’re considering options like equity release, deferred payments, or complex care arrangements.

You can also read through the council’s detailed guidance here: Help with Paying for Care

How Care with Confidence Can Help — For Free

We know this journey can feel confusing, time-consuming, and often emotionally draining — and that’s why Care with Confidence is here.

We’ve helped hundreds of families across the UK understand their care funding options — in plain English, at times that suit them, and with zero pressure.