Care Home Costs Explained: A Guide to Pricing and What’s Included

Making the decision to move a loved one into a care home is never easy, and understanding the care costs involved is an important part of that decision.

This guide will help you understand care home pricing in the UK, what is included in these costs, and how funding options can work.

What Are Care Home Costs?

Care home costs typically cover a wide range of services, which can vary depending on the type of care required and the specific facilities offered.

The average weekly cost of care homes can vary significantly based on factors such as the level of care needed, the facilities offered, and geographical location.

For most families, it’s important to understand not only the baseline costs but also what is included in the price and any potential additional charges.

At The Lodge care home, we offer a transparent pricing structure to ensure families are fully informed of what is covered by our fees.

Council-Funded vs. Private-Pay Care

In the UK, care home fees can be covered in two main ways: local council funded care and private payment.

Local council funded Care

If your loved one’s needs meet certain criteria, they may qualify for financial assistance from the local council. Financial support from your local authority can significantly alleviate the costs associated with residential care.

A financial assessment (means test) is conducted by the local council, which considers income and assets to consider whether you can pay care home fees or not.

For those with assets below £23,250, the local council may contribute towards the cost of care, but this often depends on individual needs and local authority rates.

It’s important to note that the amount your local council pay can vary, and families may still be required to top up the difference between the council’s contribution and the actual cost of the care home.

At The Lodge, we work closely with families to navigate the local authority funding process, ensuring they understand the criteria and how much they may be expected to contribute alongside the local council.

Privately Funded Care

Families who don’t qualify for council funding, or choose a more premium level of nursing care, will pay privately. This means covering the full cost of care home fees. Private pay often allows families to access more personalised nursing care, larger rooms, and additional amenities.

There is no such thing as NHS funded nursing care. The NHS do not provide care homes.

What’s Included in Care Home Fees?

Care fees typically cover a range of essential services, ensuring that residents are well-cared for in a safe, comfortable environment. At The Lodge, the following are included in our standard fees:

Accommodation

A comfortable, private room with access to communal living spaces, gardens, and recreational areas.

Personal Care

Assistance with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, and mobility.

Meals and Nutrition

Three nutritious meals a day, plus snacks and dietary accommodations based on individual needs.

Housekeeping and Laundry

Regular cleaning services, including personal laundry.

24/7 Care and Support

Trained staff on-site to provide round-the-clock support.

Activities and Entertainment

A full calendar of activities tailored to residents’ interests, helping maintain a high quality of life.

Medical Support

Medication management and coordination with healthcare professionals such as GPs and district nurses.

Specialised Care Home Costs

Specialised care homes cater to individuals with specific needs, such as dementia, physical disabilities, or mental health conditions.

These homes provide tailored support and often require specialised staff and equipment, which can result in higher average weekly cost compared to standard residential care homes.

For instance, dementia care homes typically range from £1,200 to £1,800 per week, while care homes for physical disabilities may cost between £1,000 and £1,500 per week. Mental health care homes generally range from £900 to £1,400 per week.

These higher costs reflect the additional resources and expertise required to provide the necessary level of nursing care.

Regional Care Home Costs

The cost of a care home can vary significantly depending on the region.

For example, in the North East, you might expect to pay between £600 and £900 per week, while in London, costs can range from £1,000 to £1,800 per week.

Other regions, such as the South East and East of England, also have higher average weekly costs, ranging from £900 to £1,600 and £850 to £1,400, respectively.

These variations are influenced by factors such as local living costs, demand for care services, and the availability of specialised care.

It’s important to research and compare care home fees in your specific area to get an accurate understanding of the costs involved.

Additional Costs to Consider

While care homes like The Lodge aim to be as comprehensive as possible, there are often additional charges for certain services. It’s important to clarify these with the care home early on. Some potential extras include:

Specialist Care

For residents requiring advanced nursing care or one-on-one support.

Personal Preferences

Items such as hairdressing, chiropody, or beauty treatments.

Outings and Trips

Some organised activities outside the home may come with additional costs.

Room Upgrades

Larger or more luxurious rooms may have higher fees.

Additionally, it's essential to consider the personal expenses allowance, which ensures that individuals have funds for personal items and treats after their financial contributions to care costs are calculated.

At The Lodge, we provide families with a detailed breakdown of any potential extras to ensure there are no surprises.

Avoiding Surprise Care Home Fees

To avoid unexpected care home fees, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of what is included in the weekly fee and what additional costs you may incur. Here are some tips to help you navigate this:

Ask About Additional Costs

Inquire about any extra charges for services such as laundry, meals, or activities.

Check the Contract

Carefully review the contract to understand what is included and what is not.

Ask About Top-Up Fees

If the care home costs more than the local authority’s standard rate, you may need to pay a top-up fee.

Consider All-Inclusive Fees

Some care homes offer an all-inclusive fee that covers all costs, including meals, laundry, and activities.

By being proactive and asking the right questions, you can avoid surprise fees and budget more effectively for your loved one’s care.

How to Plan for Care Home Costs

Planning for care home costs involves considering both short- and long-term financial arrangements.

A personal budget is determined based on an individual’s care needs assessment and financial assessment, outlining how much the local authority is willing to contribute towards care expenses and ensuring it is sufficient to cover at least one appropriate care home option.

It’s important to review any savings, assets, or pensions, and for those considering private payment, to explore options such as equity release or selling property to fund care.

We always advise seeking independent financial advice to make the best decision for your family’s situation. At The Lodge, we are happy to recommend trusted advisors who specialise in care home funding.

Making the Right Decision for Your Family

Choosing the right care home goes beyond cost—it’s about finding a place where your loved one feels safe, cared for, and at home.

For those responsible for their own care, understanding the financial implications and the choices available for self-funding is crucial.

At The Lodge care home in Maldon, we strive to offer both affordable and premium care options, with a clear focus on the well-being of our residents.

We encourage families to visit, meet our team, and take a tour to see firsthand the quality of care we provide.

Whether your loved one qualifies for council funding or will be paying privately, we are here to guide you every step of the way.

Conclusion

Understanding care home costs is a vital part of ensuring your loved one receives the care they need.

The Lodge care home in Maldon is committed to providing clear, transparent pricing and personalised care to suit every resident. If you have any questions or would like to discuss the funding options available, our team is here to help.

Additional Resources

For more information on care home costs and funding, the following resources can be invaluable:

• Age UK: Provides information and advice on care and support for older people.

• Alzheimer’s Society: Offers guidance on dementia care and support.

• Care Quality Commission: Inspects and rates care homes in England, helping you make informed choices.

• NHS Choices: Offers information on NHS-funded care and support.

• Local Authority Websites: Many local authorities provide detailed information on care home costs and funding options in their area.

These resources can help you navigate the complexities of care home funding and ensure you make well-informed decisions about your loved one’s care.