Planning care for a loved one can feel overwhelming, both emotionally and financially. Families often ask the same crucial question — how much does care cost in the UK?

The truth is that UK care costs can vary depending on the type of care, level of support, and location. At No1 Healthcare Private Carer, we’ve created this detailed guide to help you understand the cost of home care, live-in care, and residential care in the UK. We’ll also explain funding options, available benefits, and self-funding solutions to make informed choices for your family.

Understanding the Cost of Care in the UK

There isn’t a single answer to “what is the cost of care in the UK?” as it depends on the individual’s needs. However, here’s a breakdown of the most common services:

1. Home Care Costs UK

• Caring for a loved one yourself: While there are no direct fees, you may need to plan for home adaptations such as handrails (£150–£200), stairlifts (from £2,000), or easy-access showers (from £2,000).
• Visiting care: A professional carer visits your loved one at home for a set number of hours. Visiting care costs typically start from £30 per hour, depending on location and needs.
• Live-in care: With a professional moving into your loved one’s home, this ensures continuous, one-to-one support. On average, live-in care costs in the UK start from around £1,150 per week.

2. Residential Care & Assisted Living Costs UK

• Residential care homes provide 24-hour personal support without full nursing care. Average costs range between £1,300 and £2,500 per week.
• Assisted living costs generally start from £1,500+ per month, varying by region and facilities.

Financial Support for Care Costs in the UK

Care can be expensive, but families may be entitled to support through:

• Local authority funding (subject to means testing; asset limit £23,250 in England & Northern Ireland).
• NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC): Fully funded care for those with primary health needs.
• NHS-Funded Nursing Care (FNC): Contribution towards nursing care in a care home, currently £254.06 per week.

Benefits Available for Care Recipients

• Personal Independence Payment (PIP): For those under State Pension age with disabilities or long-term conditions.
• Attendance Allowance: For those over State Pension age who require daily support (currently £73.90 or £110.40 weekly).
• Carer’s Allowance UK: For carers providing 35+ hours per week, worth £83.30 weekly.

Source: https://www.gov.uk/pip/how-much-youll-get

Self-Funding Options

When public assistance is not enough, families often rely on:

• Equity release (accessing home value through a lifetime mortgage or home reversion).
• Savings, pensions, or other assets.
• Power of Attorney arrangements to secure decision-making authority for finances and health.

Final Thoughts

The cost of care in the UK varies depending on the type of support needed, but with the right planning you can find a balance between affordability and quality. Exploring every option — from live-in care costs to government funding — helps families make the best decision for their loved ones.

At No1 Healthcare Private Carer, we provide compassionate, professional, and flexible care tailored to suit your family’s unique needs. Whether you’re comparing home care costs UK or looking into live-in carers UK, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Finding the right carer shouldn’t be stressful — and with No1 Healthcare Private Carer, it doesn’t have to be. Our dedicated care specialists match every family with experienced, compassionate carers tailored to their loved one’s needs and budget. Whether you’re exploring home care, live-in care, or specialist support, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Find the Right Carer for Your Loved One