Finding the right care home can feel overwhelming at the best of times, but when you’re paying for your own care, the process can bring additional questions, uncertainties, and financial considerations. At Athena Care Homes, we believe everyone deserves clear guidance and confidence when making such an important decision.
This article explains what self-funding means, what to look out for when choosing a home, what support you should expect from the care provider, and the little-known mechanisms of support that are available to self-funders.
What Does It Mean to Be a Self-Funder in a Care Home?
You’re considered a self-funder if you are responsible for paying the full cost of your care because:
• You do not meet the financial threshold for local authority support
• You are not eligible for NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC)
• You chose a home that costs more than your local authority will fund
Many people assume that self-funders must navigate everything alone, but that isn’t the case. While your local authority may not pay for your care, you still have rights to assessments, advice, and support.
How to Choose a Care Home When You Are Self-Funding
At Athena, we encourage families to explore the following key areas:
1. Transparent, Fees and Contracts
A reputable care home should clearly outline:
• What is included in the weekly fee
• Any additional charges (e.g., salon services, chiropody)
• How annual fee reviews work
• Contract terms and notice periods
Clarity today prevents uncertainty tomorrow.
2. Personalised Care Plans
Beyond medical needs, focus on how the home will support wellbeing: Look for:
• Individual care plans
• Resident-focused activities
• Inclusive wellbeing and lifestyle programmes
• Flexible dining and nutritional support
3. Quality Ratings You Can Trust
Review the Care Quality Commission (CQC) rating and inspection report. Speak openly with the home about its care quality, leadership, and staff training.
4. Location and Accessibility
Choose a home that supports family connection, proximity makes visits easier and enhances emotional wellbeing.
5. A Warm, Welcoming Community
When visiting, notice the atmosphere:
• Are residents engaged?
• Do staff interact with warmth and respect?
• Is the home clean, comfortable and homely?
Your instincts matter.
What Support Should Self-Funders Expect From a Care Home?
Even as a self-funder, you should expect:
Pre-Admission Assessment
The home should assess needs, preferences, and risks to ensure the environment is suitable
Clear Financial Information
While care homes can’t provide financial advice, they can, and should, explain their fees, processes and options.
Coordinated Professional Support
Homes should liaise with GPs, district nurses, therapists and social workers where needed.
Future Planning Guidance
The home should discuss what happens if your needs increase, or if your financial circumstances change.
Financial and Practical Support Available to Self-Funders
Many people are surprised to learn that several support mechanisms are available.
1. Local Authority Care Needs Assessment (Free)
Regardless of financial situation, you are entitled to a free needs assessment. This helps determine the level of care you need and supports informed decision-making.
2. Attendance Allowance
A non-means-tested benefit for people over State Pension age who need support with personal care. Many care home residents qualify.
3. NHS-Funded Nursing Care (FNC)
If you need nursing care but don’t qualify for NHS Continuing Healthcare, the NHS may contribute a weekly amount toward nursing costs.
4. Deferred Payment Agreements
If your savings are below the threshold but much of your wealth is tied in your property, local authorities offer:
12-week Property Disregard: The local authority must disregard the value of your property in the financial assessment for the first 12 weeks of your permanent care home placement.
This means:
• The council pays part or all of your fees
• You will contribute from income or savings
• During the 12-week property disregard period, you can top-up additional residential care payments from your own resources, subject to the local authority agreeing
Not all homes accept this, so check in advance.
If your property has still not sold after the 12-week property disregard period, you may be able to apply for a deferred payment:
Deferred Payment Scheme:
This means:
• The council pays part or all of your fees
• You repay the amount later when your property is sold
• If an additional residential care top-up payment is required, this can only be paid by a third party
Not all homes accept this, so check in advance.
Financial Guidance From Later-Life Specialists
Independent advisors (such as SOLLA-accredited professionals) can help ensure your finances are structured to support long-term care.
How Athena Care Homes Support Self-Funding Residents
We understand the unique considerations for families funding their own care. Our teams across Athena Care Homes are committed to:
• Transparent, inclusive fees
• Exceptional personalised care
• Clear communication
• Supportive guidance from your very first enquiry
We’re here to help you make every decision with confidence.
Contact us today, if you would like to speak to our team about self-funding care, we’re always happy to help you explore your options with confidence.
For more details, download our Guide to Self Funding.
Frequently asked Questions:
A self-funder is someone who pays the full cost of their care home fees privately, without financial support from the local authority.
Yes. Self-funders may be eligible for Attendance Allowance, NHS-funded nursing care, and free local authority care needs assessments.
Transparent fees, CQC ratings, personalised care plans, a welcoming environment, and clear future planning support.
