Choosing a care home for yourself or a loved one can feel overwhelming, but understanding the process from the start makes it more manageable. The first step is assessing your care needs and finances, ensuring you receive the right support while understanding your rights
Financial Assessment
Before selecting a care home, it’s essential to determine whether you’ll be self-funding or eligible for local authority support. A financial assessment—also known as a means test—is conducted by your local council to evaluate your income, savings, and assets. In Wales, the threshold is higher at £50,000 for residential care. Those below these thresholds may qualify for partial or full financial assistance.
Contacting Social Services
If you or your loved one may require financial help, your local Adult Social Services department should be your first point of contact. They will arrange a care needs assessment, evaluating the level of support required. If care home placement is recommended, they will then conduct the financial assessment. Even if you are self-funding, this assessment can help determine the right level of care and ensure you consider all available support.
Knowing Your Rights
Everyone has the right to a care needs assessment, regardless of their financial situation. If the local authority is contributing to costs, you have the right to choose a care home—within reason—as long as it meets your needs and budget. If you are self-funding, you have complete freedom to choose.
Starting with these steps ensures a well-informed decision, helping you or your loved one find the right care home with clarity and confidence.
