What care homes offer
- Help with daily tasks such as washing, dressing, eating, going to the toilet, and taking medication
- Social activities and opportunities to stay connected
- A safe and supportive environment
Types of care homes
- Residential care homes – Provide personal care and support
- Nursing care homes – Have registered nurses on site 24/7 for people who need medical care as well as personal care
- Some homes specialise in conditions such as dementia
Who decides if a care home is right for you?
If you think you need to move into a care home, you’ll have a social care assessment. This helps make sure:
- A care home is the right option for you
- Your care needs are met
- You meet the eligibility criteria
The assessment can take place at home, in hospital, or virtually. You’ll be fully involved in planning your care.
How to find a care home
- Search for care homes on Staffordshire Connects
- Your social care practitioner can give advice and guidance
Paying for care
Most people pay something towards the cost of care.
- We’ll carry out a financial assessment to see what you need to pay
- If you have savings or property worth more than £23,250, you’ll pay the full cost (self-funding)
- When your savings drop below £23,250, contact us at least four months before so we can review your care and funding options
What if someone else lives in your home?
If you move permanently into a care home, the value of your property is usually included in the financial assessment after the first 12 weeks.
However, your home may be disregarded if certain people still live there, such as:
- Your spouse or civil partner
- A close relative aged 60 or over
- A dependent child
- A relative with a disability
If your property is disregarded, it will not count towards your capital while that person continues to live there.
Why early contact matters
Even if you are self-funding now, it’s important to get a financial assessment early. This helps you plan ahead and avoid any gaps in funding when your savings reduce.
Top-up payments
If you choose a care home that costs more than your personal budget, a family member or friend can pay a top-up fee.
- You cannot pay your own top-up
- A written agreement will explain the amount, how often payments are made, and what happens if payments stop
What happens if your savings run out?
- Contact the council at least four months before your savings fall below £23,250
- We’ll review your care needs and financial situation
- If your current home costs more than your personal budget, you may need to move or arrange a top-up payment
NHS nursing care
If you receive nursing care, the NHS pays a set amount directly to the care home. Other costs depend on your financial assessment and the home’s charges.
Next steps
- Contact Staffordshire Cares on 0300 111 8010 for advice
- Find out more about paying for care