Understanding Continuing Healthcare (CHC) Funding for Home Care in South Yorkshire
Paying for care can be one of the biggest concerns for individuals and families when a loved one begins to need ongoing support. While many people assume they will need to fund home care themselves or rely on local authority assistance, some individuals with significant and complex health needs may be entitled to NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) funding. This is a package of care arranged and funded entirely by the NHS for adults aged 18 and over who have what is known as a primary health need, regardless of their income or savings. Unlike social care funding, CHC is not means-tested, meaning eligibility is based solely on the nature and complexity of a person’s health needs rather than their financial circumstances. The information within this post is just some general information and can be subject to chnage
For people living in Doncaster and across South Yorkshire, CHC funding can be used to support care in a variety of settings, including your own home. If you are eligible, the NHS may fund a package of home care that helps you remain safe and independent while receiving the support you need. This can include assistance with personal care, medication management, mobility, specialist nursing support, and other services depending on your individual needs. Many people receiving CHC funding for care at home also have the option of a Personal Health Budget, allowing them greater choice and flexibility over how their care is arranged.
Eligibility for NHS Continuing Healthcare is determined through a structured assessment process carried out by healthcare professionals. The assessment looks at the overall nature, intensity, complexity and unpredictability of your care needs, rather than focusing on a particular diagnosis or condition. Having dementia, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or another long-term illness does not automatically qualify someone for CHC funding, but these conditions may contribute towards eligibility depending on how they affect day-to-day care requirements.
The assessment usually begins with an initial screening known as the CHC Checklist. If this indicates that a full assessment is appropriate, a multidisciplinary team will complete a detailed Decision Support Tool, considering a range of care domains such as mobility, cognition, behaviour, nutrition, breathing, medication and communication. Following the assessment, your local Integrated Care Board (ICB) makes the final decision about eligibility in line with the National Framework for NHS Continuing Healthcare.
Although the assessment process can seem complicated, families should not hesitate to ask for an assessment if they believe someone may have significant healthcare needs. If an application is unsuccessful, there is also a formal appeals process, and many families seek further advice before accepting the outcome. Understanding your rights and ensuring assessments fully reflect an individual’s day-to-day care needs can make a significant difference.
At Orchids Care, we regularly work alongside families, healthcare professionals and local services across Doncaster and South Yorkshire. While we cannot decide whether someone qualifies for NHS Continuing Healthcare funding, we can help explain the process, work with funded care packages where appropriate and provide compassionate, high-quality home care tailored to each individual’s needs. If you are unsure whether NHS Continuing Healthcare may be suitable for yourself or a loved one, our friendly team is always happy to discuss your circumstances and point you in the right direction.
*The information contained in this article is provided for general guidance only and may be subject to change. It should not be considered professional, legal or medical advice.
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