When you begin looking for support at home, the financial side can often feel like the most complicated part of the process. Between local authority assessments, NHS criteria, and personal finances, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by unfamiliar terms and paperwork.
This guide offers a plain overview of the main funding routes people commonly explore when arranging support at home. You do not need to have every detail worked out before starting to explore your options.
Support from your local council
Many people begin by contacting their local council to request a care needs assessment. This looks at whether support may be helpful and what kind of help might be appropriate.
If the council agrees that support is needed, they calculate a personal budget: an amount they consider appropriate to meet eligible needs. Some people choose to receive this as a Direct Payment, meaning the money is paid directly to them or held in a managed account, allowing them to arrange support themselves rather than having services organised on their behalf. Direct Payments are often used by people who want greater choice and flexibility in who supports them. You can read more about using a Direct Payment with ilarna in our dedicated guide.
Attendance Allowance
Attendance Allowance is a benefit for people over State Pension age who need support due to a physical or mental condition. It is not means-tested, so savings and income are not taken into account. Eligibility is based on how a condition affects daily life. Some people use Attendance Allowance to help fund a few hours of home support each week, such as companionship or help with everyday routines.
NHS Continuing Healthcare
In some cases, the NHS may fund support for people with complex, ongoing health needs. This is known as NHS Continuing Healthcare, or CHC. Eligibility is determined by the NHS following a detailed assessment led by health professionals. Where CHC funding is in place, families may explore different ways of arranging support at home depending on local arrangements and NHS guidance.
Clear and transparent costs with ilarna
Because you work directly with independent, self-employed ilarna Personal Assistants, you have full transparency about costs. Rates are agreed directly between you and your ilarna Personal Assistant, whether hourly or daily, with no bundled packages or hidden surcharges. Platform fees are clearly stated, and invoices and payments are stored in one place on your ilarna dashboard, making it straightforward to track spending or provide information if required.
Finding a route that works for you
Understanding the different funding routes available can help you decide what feels manageable and appropriate for your situation. If you would like to talk things through, our team can explain how support is typically arranged through the ilarna platform and point you toward further sources of information where helpful.
If you would like to find out more about funding support at home through ilarna, get in touch using the form below, or call us on 0208 050 4805.
