What our guide covers
This guide explains live‑in care costs in the UK, including how pricing is structured, what can affect the overall cost and what funding or financial support may be available. It covers:
- Typical live‑in care costs per week
- What affects the cost of live‑in care in the UK
- Funding options, benefits and allowances that may apply
- How CHS Healthcare helps families compare providers on both cost and quality
How much does live-in care cost?
The cost of live‑in care in the UK typically ranges from £1,300 to £2,000 per week, depending on the level of support needed. This covers continuous, one‑to‑one care in your loved one’s home, including support during the day and, where agreed, overnight.
Specialist live-in care, such as dementia, Parkinson’s or complex nursing needs, can cost more, reflecting the additional training, experience and round-the-clock oversight involved.
What’s usually included in live‑in care costs
While services vary between providers, live-in care costs typically cover:
- Personal care and daily living support
- Assistance with washing, dressing and mobility
- Meal planning and preparation
- Household tasks such as light cleaning and laundry
- Companionship and emotional support
- Support with appointments and daily activities
- Overnight support where agreed as part of the care package
Costs can vary significantly between providers, even where care needs appear similar. It’s always worth looking beyond the headline weekly rate to check exactly what’s included, so you’re comparing like-for-like services.
At CHS Healthcare, we help families understand their options, compare costs and find care that meets their needs and budget. Our experienced advisors are on hand to answer questions and support you throughout the process. If you’d like help understanding what live‑in care costs could look like for your situation, you can speak to an advisor at any point.
What affects the cost of live-in care?
Several factors can influence the average cost of live‑in care in the UK:
- Level of need: From basic personal care to dementia, nursing or complex medical support
- Night‑time wake‑ins or 24‑hour care: Regular overnight support may increase costs
- Location and availability: Live‑in care costs can vary across regions
- Specialist requirements: Expertise such as behavioural support or end‑of‑life care
- Couples live‑in care: Supporting two people together is often more cost‑effective than separate arrangements
Every family’s situation is different, which is why professional guidance can be valuable when comparing options.
What funding may be available for live-in care?
Understanding care funding can be complex, especially at an already stressful time. Our experienced advisors help families navigate the different funding routes available, providing clear information and helping you understand what support may apply to your circumstances.
Funding for live-in care depends on a person’s care needs, health needs, financial circumstances and where they live. Some people pay privately, while others may be eligible for support through their Local Authority, the NHS or benefits and allowances.
The right funding route depends on individual circumstances, so it’s important to explore all available options before making decisions.
Local Authority care needs assessments
A care needs assessment is often the first step in understanding what support may be needed. This assessment considers how well someone can manage everyday activities and whether they have eligible care needs.
Following an assessment, the Local Authority may consider whether financial support is available and what level of contribution may be required.
Even if someone is not eligible for funding, they may still receive guidance and a care and support plan that outlines how their needs could be met.
NHS funding
Some people with significant or complex health needs may be assessed for NHS Continuing Healthcare funding. This type of funding is based on health needs rather than financial circumstances.
Depending on individual circumstances, NHS funding may contribute towards or fully fund care.
Self-funding live-in care
Many families choose to fund live-in care privately. This may be because they are not eligible for funding or because they want greater choice and flexibility when selecting a provider.
If you’re self-funding, it’s important to consider:
- What is included within the quoted cost
- Whether additional charges may apply
- How costs may change if care needs increase
- Whether the provider can support future or more complex needs
Benefits and allowances
Some people may be eligible for benefits that help contribute towards care costs, including:
- Attendance Allowance
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Other benefits depending on personal circumstances
Eligibility requirements can change over time, so it’s important to check the latest government guidance or seek professional advice.
Local services and practical support
There may also be local services that can help someone remain independent at home, including:
- Day services
- Community support programmes
- Home adaptations
- Assistive technology
- Equipment and mobility aids
- Meal services
- Befriending services
These services can often complement live-in care and help people continue living safely and independently.
Planning ahead: why Lasting Power of Attorney matters
Many families don’t start thinking about legal arrangements until a crisis occurs. However, planning ahead can make future care and funding decisions much easier. A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) allows someone to appoint trusted individuals to make decisions on their behalf if they are no longer able to do so themselves. There are two main types:
- Health and welfare
- Property and financial affairs
Having these arrangements in place can help ensure important decisions about care, finances and wellbeing can be made by people the individual trusts. If you’re considering a Lasting Power of Attorney, we recommend seeking independent legal guidance.
Testimonial
“From the first phone call CHS were calm, professional, caring and made me feel supported. My care liaison advisor was so helpful and gave me all the right information. Even when I contacted her at a weekend and she wasn’t working she replied to give me an alternative contact. I would definitely recommend this service to others.”
Get independent guidance on live‑in care costs
Understanding care costs can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to work it out on your own. Our advisors can help you understand fees, explore funding options and compare the choices available, so you can find the right care for your loved one. Whether you’re planning ahead or need support quickly, we’re here to help.
Call us on 0808 175 3609 or fill in the form below.
FAQs
1. What is the average weekly cost of live‑in care in the UK?
The average cost of live‑in care in the UK typically ranges from £1,300 to £2,000 per week, depending on the level of support required. Costs may be higher for specialist live‑in care, such as dementia, live‑in nursing care or complex health needs.
2. How quickly can funding for live‑in care be assessed?
The timeframe for funding assessments can vary depending on the route being explored, such as Local Authority support or NHS‑related funding. Some assessments can begin quickly, while others may take longer. Our advisors can help you understand what options may apply in your situation and what timescales to expect.
3. Can two people be supported by one live‑in carer?
Yes, couples live‑in care is often possible and can be a more cost‑effective option than arranging separate care packages. This depends on both individuals’ needs and whether one carer can safely support them together.
4. How do I know if I might be eligible for funding or benefits?
Eligibility for funding or benefits depends on individual health, care needs and financial circumstances. Some families may be entitled to support such as Attendance Allowance or Local Authority funding. Our advisors can help you explore which funding or benefits may be relevant and where to find further guidance.
