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Here's how, with your support, Age UK is supporting older people through the cost of living crisis.
Social care services aren't usually provided free of charge. You may need to pay some, or all, of the cost of the care services you need. We can help you work out whether you may be entitled to help with care costs from your local council, and what to do if you have to pay the full cost of your care.
If the council decides you’re eligible for support or care, they'll then carry out a financial assessment to work out whether you’re entitled to help with the costs of your care.
The financial assessment looks at your income, such as pensions and benefits, and your 'capital', such as any savings you have, to work out whether you're entitled to help with care costs. If you are, the financial assessment works out how much you may need to contribute towards the cost of the care services you need.
Care home fees and at-home care service fees vary depending on a number of different factors, including the area, what services are included and whether or not you're eligible for financial help from the council.
Caroline Abrahams, Age UK Charity Director, talks about the cost of care at home.
We offer support through our free advice line on 0800 678 1602. Lines are open 8am-7pm, 365 days a year. We also have specialist advisers at over 120 local Age UKs.