Advice, Cost, and Funding for Care Services in Cardiff

Finding the right care services for yourself or a loved one can be challenging. In Cardiff, residents have access to a wide range of care options, but understanding the costs and navigating funding can be complex. This guide provides essential advice to help you make informed decisions about care services in the city.

Understanding Care Options in Cardiff

Cardiff offers a diverse mix of care services to support people with varying needs, including:

• Domiciliary (home) care – Help with personal care, household tasks, or companionship within your own home.
• Residential care homes – For individuals who need 24/7 support in a structured environment.
• Nursing homes – Residential settings that provide specialist medical care in addition to personal support.
• Specialist care – Including dementia care, palliative care, and respite services for carers.

Choosing the right type of care depends on individual needs, lifestyle preferences, health conditions, and budget.

Cost of Care Services in Cardiff

The cost of care varies significantly based on the type and level of care required.

1. Home Care Costs

Expect to pay around £20 to £30 per hour for domiciliary care in Cardiff. Costs may be higher for evening or weekend visits, or if specialist care is needed.

2. Residential Care Home Costs

Standard residential care: Around £700 to £1,000 per week

Nursing care: Approximately £900 to £1,300 per week

Prices depend on location, facilities, staff qualifications, and care complexity.

3. Self-funding vs. Council-Funded Care

Many people assume all care is covered by the NHS or council, but most social care is means-tested, which means you'll need to pay some or all of the costs depending on your income, savings, and assets.

Funding Help and Financial Support

1. Cardiff Council Support

If your savings are under £50,000 (for home care) or £24,000 (for residential care), you may qualify for financial support. The council will carry out a care needs assessment followed by a financial assessment to determine your eligibility.

Start by contacting Cardiff Council Adult Social Services:

• 029 2087 2087
• cardiff.gov.uk

2. NHS Continuing Healthcare

For individuals with significant health needs, the NHS may cover the full cost of care through NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC). Eligibility is based on a detailed health assessment and not financial status.

3. Attendance Allowance & Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

These are non-means-tested benefits available for individuals who need help with daily living due to illness or disability. They can be used to pay for care support, even if you arrange it privately.

4. Direct Payments

If you're eligible for council funding, you can opt to receive Direct Payments, giving you more flexibility and control over the care services you choose.

Helpful Resources

• Dewis Cymru – A comprehensive directory of care providers and advice services in Wales - www.dewis.wales
• Age Cymru – Offers free, confidential advice on care, legal issues, and benefits for older adults - www.ageuk.org.uk/cymru
• Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) – The body that regulates care providers in Wales. Check ratings and inspection reports before choosing a service - careinspectorate.wales

Top Tips

• Start with an assessment – Even if you intend to pay privately, a care needs assessment from the council can help clarify what kind of support is best.
• Plan ahead – Costs can add up quickly. Planning early can give you more funding options and peace of mind.
• Involve family or advocates – Decisions around care can be emotional. It helps to have support from family or a trusted adviser.
• Review care plans regularly – Needs change over time, and care plans should evolve accordingly.

By understanding your options and seeking the right advice, you can ensure that care decisions are informed, cost-effective, and tailored to your or your loved one’s needs. Cardiff has a strong network of support—don’t hesitate to reach out and make use of the resources available.