Financial Planning for Independent Supported Living

Deciding on care for a loved one is a significant challenge, particularly when considering the financial implications. This guide provides an in-depth look at the costs associated with independent supported living and offers strategic advice on budgeting for these services.

What is Independent Supported Living?

Independent supported living provides crucial care and support within the comfort of one’s home. It is ideal for those who prefer not to reside in residential care. This form of support, suitable for the elderly and individuals with disabilities, emphasises social interaction and autonomy, facilitating a rewarding life.

Supported independent living is available in two forms: care at home and supported living accommodation. 

Supported living at home allows individuals to receive necessary care within their own home. The person does not need to move to a new environment, which can cause a great deal of stress and disruption. Care workers will visit your home and provide specialist support to assist with a wide variety of tasks. These could include personal care and housekeeping.

Supported living accommodation, also known as assisted living or extra-care housing, offers care services within specialist housing units. These are usually managed by care organisations or local authorities. 

Individual flats, shared houses, and small residential complexes may be available to people in need. They offer private spaces as well as communal areas for socialising. Visiting care workers will help you get out of bed and go to college or work. They will also complete tasks such as shopping, managing finances, or personal care.

Understanding the Costs of Supported Living

The cost of supported living can vary depending on many different factors. For example, the housing option you choose, the level of care required, and whether you are eligible for any government funding will all impact the overall cost. The services offered by each facility are highly individualised, so it can be difficult to accurately pinpoint the costs without delving deeper into your personal circumstances.

You will be required to pay for:

• Housing: The cost of renting or buying your home. If you remain in your own home, these costs can be avoided.
• Services: Service charges may cover home maintenance, the upkeep of communal facilities, and some utility costs. These can differ depending on the housing provider.
• Individual care: Funding given to care workers to cover your individual care needs.
• Other: Other personal expenses may include council tax, utilities (if not included in rent charges), food and travel.

If you’re considering assisted living accommodation, it’s important to read over the contract carefully. Make sure you are aware of exactly which services are included within the weekly charges. For example, the service charges for some accommodation types may not include any actual rent or mortgage costs.

Check whether service charges or the costs of individual care are likely to increase over time. One off-fees such as administration or exit fees may also be applicable. If you have any questions, ask the care provider – but don’t sign on the dotted line until you fully understand the costs involved.

Government Funding for Supported Living Housing

Depending on your income, you may be eligible for government funding towards supported independent living housing. You may be able to receive help with your rent or service charges via Housing Benefit (if renting) or Pension Credit (if you own your home). You may also be entitled to assistance with council tax or care services if you receive income support. You can receive further advice from your citizen’s advice bureau.

Explore Independent Supported Living Solutions with Safehands Healthcare

Safehands Healthcare offers emergency care at home in just a matter of hours. Our extensive network of emergency carers are well equipped to deal with complex care needs at little notice, providing you with total peace of mind. Contact us today to discuss your emergency home care needs.