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 processes, NHS criteria, and personal finances, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by unfamiliar terms and paperwork.
At ilarna, we believe that clear, straightforward information helps people feel more confident about their options. This guide offers an overview of the main funding routes people commonly explore when arranging support at home.
Because you work directly with independent, self-employed ilarna Personal Assistants, you have transparency about costs and arrangements, without agency-style pricing structures.
Below is an outline of the main funding options that may be available.
1. Support from your local council
Many people begin by contacting their local council to request a care needs assessment. This assessment looks at whether support may be helpful and what kind of help is appropriate.
Personal budgets
If the council agrees support is needed, they calculate a personal budget, an amount they believe is appropriate to meet eligible needs.
Direct Payments
Some people choose to receive their personal budget as a Direct Payment. This means the money is paid to you (or held in a managed account), allowing you to arrange support yourself rather than having services organised on your behalf.
Direct Payments are often used by people who want greater choice and flexibility in who supports them.
2. Attendance Allowance
Attendance Allowance is a benefit for people over State Pension age who need support due to a physical or mental condition.
Who it’s for
Attendance Allowance is not means-tested, so savings and income are not taken into account. Eligibility is based on how your condition affects daily life.
How it’s used
Some people use Attendance Allowance to help fund a few hours of home support each week, such as companionship or help with everyday routines.
3. NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC)
In some cases, the NHS may fund support for people with complex, ongoing health needs.
This is known as NHS Continuing Healthcare (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
Many people value ilarna for its simple and open approach to pricing.
Agreed rates
You and your ilarna Personal Assistant agree rates directly, whether hourly or daily.
No hidden surcharges
There are no bundled “care packages” or tiered pricing structures. Platform fees are clearly stated.
Clear records
Invoices and payments are stored in one place on your ilarna dashboard, making it easier to track spending or provide information if required.
Finding a route that works for you
You don’t need to have every funding detail worked out before exploring support. Understanding the different routes available can help you decide what feels manageable and appropriate for your situation.
If you’d 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.
Want to explore your options?
Find an independent ilarna Personal Assistant.
Feeling overwhelmed by the financial side of support? Our team can help you navigate funding options and explain how to use your budget for independent support at home.
Call us: 0208 050 4805 | Email: hello@ilarna.com
ilarna is a platform that helps people connect with independent, self-employed ilarna Personal Assistants. While we provide general information about funding options, we do not carry out statutory assessments or provide legal or financial advice.
