Paying for Care
How much do setoncare services cost?
The cost of care depends on which service(s) you choose and how much you use them. Read about our services to identify how we can help you.
You can access setoncare services by:
- Contacting us direct and entering into a private contract (you will pay the full cost)
- Being referred to us by your local authority (which may pay some or all of the cost)
What help can I get towards the cost of my care?
Nowadays, everyone is expected to make a financial contribution towards their care if they are deemed to be able to afford to. The rules governing payment for care can be very complicated. These rules also vary between Scotland, England and Wales.
Your individual situation – including your personal circumstances, medical needs and financial position – will be taken into account. This is whether you receive care in your own home or move into a residential care home.
Where can I get advice?
Because everyone’s situation is unique, we prefer to signpost sources of advice and information rather than give guidelines that can at best be very general.
First, contact your local authority’s social services department. (Even if you intend to move to another area, always contact the local authority where you live now.) They will carry out a care assessment to decide what services you need. They will then assess your finances to find out how much (if anything) you can afford to pay for those services.
If you live in the Scottish Borders or Northumberland:
- Scottish Borders Council Social Work Services Department
- Northumberland County Council Care Management Services
If you live elsewhere in the UK:
- Find your local authority in the phonebook or use the Directgov directories
The following charities give guidance on care issues, including information on paying for care:
- Age Concern is the UK’s largest organisation working with and for older people. They offer information online and a series of downloadable fact sheets on getting care and paying for it. There is a separate Age Concern Scotland.
- Help the Aged is an international charity fighting to free disadvantaged older people from poverty, isolation and neglect. Their website offers advice on care and housing choices and information on finance and benefits. They also offer SeniorLine, a free telephone advice service: 0808 800 6565.
- Counsel and Care works to get the best care and support for older people, their families and carers. It specialises in giving free advice for the over-60s on care issues.
- Elderly Accommodation Counsel aims to help older people make informed choices about meeting their housing and care needs. EAC’s HousingCare.org website gives details of the options when making decisions about where to live, backed up by a telephone Advice Line: 020 7820 1343.
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