Are you wondering, “How much does home care cost in the UK?” With an ageing population, more families are turning to home care services to ensure their loved ones receive professional support while remaining in familiar surroundings. Understanding the costs involved can help you make an informed decision and explore available funding options.
In this guide, we’ll break down the average cost of home care in the UK, factors affecting pricing, and financial support options.
What Is Home Care and Why Is It Needed?
Home care services provide personalised support to individuals who need assistance with daily activities such as dressing, medication management, mobility, and companionship. This type of care is ideal for elderly individuals, those recovering from surgery, and people with disabilities who prefer to stay at home rather than move into residential care.
How Much Does Home Care Cost in the UK?
The cost of home care varies depending on the level of support needed, location, and care provider. Here’s an overview of average home care costs in the UK:
| Type of Home Care | Average Cost Per Hour |
|---|---|
| Hourly Visiting Care | £20 – £30 |
| Live-in Care | £900 – £1,500 per week |
| Overnight Care | £100 – £200 per night |
| 24-Hour Care | £1,200 – £2,500 per week |
Prices may vary depending on where you live in the UK. London and the South East generally have higher care costs than other regions.
Factors That Affect Home Care Costs
Several factors influence the cost of home care services, including:
✅ Level of Care Required – Personal care (e.g., help with dressing and washing) is typically cheaper than specialised care (e.g., dementia or palliative care).
✅ Number of Care Hours Needed – Costs increase with more frequent visits or full-time live-in care.
✅ Location – Care services in major cities like London tend to be more expensive than in rural areas.
✅ Private vs. Agency Care – Hiring a carer privately may be cheaper, but agencies provide trained professionals, insurance, and reliability.
✅ Weekend or Holiday Care – Some providers charge higher rates for care provided during weekends or bank holidays.
Is Home Care Cheaper Than a Care Home?
Many families ask whether home care is more cost-effective than a care home.
- Home care allows your loved one to stay in familiar surroundings while receiving tailored, one-on-one support.
- Residential care homes cost between £800 – £1,200 per week, making them a more expensive option than part-time home care.
- For individuals needing 24-hour care, live-in care may be a cost-effective alternative to a care home.
How to Pay for Home Care in the UK
If you or your loved one require home care, there are different funding options available:
💰 Local Authority Support – Depending on financial eligibility, the local council may fund part or all of the care. You can apply for a care needs assessment to determine eligibility.
💰 NHS Continuing Healthcare – If the individual has complex medical needs, the NHS may fully fund care costs.
💰 Attendance Allowance & Carer’s Allowance – Government benefits that can help cover some home care expenses.
💰 Self-Funding – Many families choose to pay for home care privately, especially if they do not qualify for financial assistance.
Finding Reliable Home Care Services in the UK
When selecting a home care provider, consider:
✅ CQC Ratings – Ensure the provider is regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).
✅ Personalised Care Plans – Look for services that tailor care to individual needs.
✅ Trained & Experienced Carers – Check that carers are fully trained and DBS-checked.
✅ Flexible Care Packages – Choose a provider that offers hourly, live-in, and respite care options.
Conclusion: Get Expert Home Care with Care Package Plus
At Care Package Plus, we provide high-quality, personalised home care services across London. Whether you need hourly care, live-in support, or specialist care, our trained professionals are here to help.
☎️ Contact us today on 0208 637 3022 or visit our website to discuss your care needs.