Eligibility & Guidance
Navigating funding for care can feel overwhelming. We are here to help you understand the criteria and the steps required to secure support for your loved ones.
Who Qualifies?
Eligibility is primarily based on a combination of clinical need and a financial means test conducted by local authorities.
Individuals over the 18 years of age with long-term physical or mental health conditions may be entitled to various support tiers.
We recommend starting your assessment as early as possible to ensure timely access to the required financial contributions.
Our specialist team can guide you through the initial paperwork and explain the specific requirements for Brighton & Hove residents.
Remember, NHS Continuing Healthcare is non-means tested and focuses solely on primary healthcare needs.
Attendance Allowance
If you are over 65 and need help with personal care due to illness or disability, you may be eligible for Attendance Allowance. The level of support available depends on your individual needs and circumstances.
Personal Independence Payment
If you are under 65 and need support with daily living or mobility due to a long-term health condition or disability, you may be eligible for Personal Independence Payment.
Step-by-Step Guidance
1
Care Assessment
Contact your local council to request a 'needs assessment' for your relative to identify support requirements.
2
Financial Assessment
The council performs a 'means test' to decide how much they will contribute and what you will pay.
NHS Continuing Healthcare
If you have a complex medical condition or significant healthcare needs, you may be eligible for NHS Continuing Healthcare funding. This can provide fully funded care where your primary need is assessed as being related to health. Your GP, social worker or healthcare professional can help arrange an assessment.
Carer's Allowance
If you provide regular care for someone for 35 hours or more each week, you may be eligible for Carer's Allowance.
3
Personal Budget
Once eligible, you’ll be allocated a budget. You can choose to have this as a 'Direct Payment'.
Local Authority Support & Personal Budgets
Your local council can carry out a care needs assessment to determine whether you qualify for support under national eligibility criteria. If eligible, funding may be provided directly by the council or through a Personal Budget, giving you greater choice and control over how your support is arranged.
4
Choose BrightCare
Use your direct payments or personal budget to select BrightCare and start receiving human-led care.
