Increased funding for nursing in care homes will support tens of thousands of care home residents with nursing needs, including those with learning and physical disabilities, with an 11.5% increase in 2022 to 2023 and an estimated £87 million backdated for 2021 to 2022. This news has been welcomed by those within the elderly care sector.
The recent decision shared by the Government will help cover the costs of nursing care and support that staff that provide it, ensuring that this vital service can continue to support the needs of elderly care residents and all those who rely on it. The standard weekly rate per person, provided for NHS-funded nursing care, has increased by 11.5% from £187.60 to £209.19 for 2022-23 and will be backdated to 1 April.
The news of more funding is welcomed across the elderly care sector, especially after an uncertain few years. Will Donnelly – Co-Founder of Lottie – says: “the increased funding from the Government for nursing in care homes is a brilliant step forward for supporting the elderly care sector.
The pandemic placed a huge strain on care workers across the country, with staff working tirelessly and round-the-clock to look after the most vulnerable. Even in the most uncertain times, care home communities provided so much more than everyday support over the last few years.
From round-the-clock dementia care to support for those with complex medical needs, every resident has unique care requirements. Whilst working in elderly care is hugely rewarding, providing different types of elderly care can be extremely challenging. So, it’s a huge relief to see that the Government are recognising the vital role care home staff play in society.
It’s more important than ever to recognise the vital role all care workers play in society. This increased funding will allow them to continue providing the highest level of support for care home residents. However, the hard work doesn’t stop here. We must continue to raise awareness of the hard work and push for more recognition for the elderly care sector.”
Here Will Donnelly – Lottie’s Co-Founder and Elderly Care Expert – answers the most common questions about the cost of elderly care:
How do care homes work?
First things first: a care home provides accommodation, personal care services and support to elderly people, or those who may no longer be able to live independently in their own home.
Once in a care home, you won’t have to worry about day-to-day household tasks like cooking and cleaning and your family will have peace of mind that you are being cared for round the clock, with every possible need or requirement met.
Who pays for care home costs?
When it comes to paying for elderly care, you have several options to consider. Firstly, you can self-fund the cost of care. If you have enough savings, you will be classed as a self-funder and will be expected to fund your own care home costs.
Alternatively, your local authority or council may be able to provide financial support. If you find a care home that’s more expensive than what they support you with, a relative, friend or loved one could offer to pay a top-up fee towards the cost of care.
Finally, in certain circumstances, you may be able to have your elderly care fees paid for by the NHS through the NHS continuing healthcare funding scheme.
What is the average cost of care in the UK?
The cost of elderly care will depend on the location of your chosen care home and the type of support you require.
If someone has certain medical conditions that require regular treatment from experienced registered nurses, they will require a nursing care home. This type of care is required 24-hours every day, so it will typically be more expensive than a residential care home, where residents require less support.
The average weekly cost of a UK nursing home can vary between £800-£900, but again this will depend on any personal care requirements and where you live.