Lightening the load of care costs

PAYING for care is fast becoming one of the biggest financial shocks in later life, with average fees now topping £1,300 a week.

- Katie Elliott

Yet thousands of families are still footing the bill when the NHS may be able to help. If someone's health needs are complex and ongoing, the NHS can cover all care costs through a scheme called NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC). Many people are completely unaware that it exists, and the result is that many families drain savings or sell homes unnecessarily to pay the staggering fees.

CHC is a package of care arranged and fully funded by the NHS for people in England and Wales with significant health needs. It can cover care home fees, nursing care or care in your own home. Crucially, it isn't means-tested, which means your income and savings will not affect your eligibility.