Can I Get Free Home Care in Wales?
An ominous looking invoice for a loved ones care costs.
Understanding how to access home care for a loved one in Wales can feel overwhelming, especially when trying to navigate funding options. The good news is that support is available, and early engagement can make a big difference in your loved one’s wellbeing.
Is Home Care Free in Wales?
Many people will be surprised to learn that essentially yes it can be, or very close to free. Home care can be free or heavily subsidised in Wales, which is a key difference from England, where the local authority typically won’t fund care until your savings and assets fall below £23,250. In Wales, even if your loved one has savings or assets above this threshold, they will usually only need to contribute a maximum of £100 per week towards their home care costs, regardless of their total savings or assets.
To offset this contribution, we can help you apply for Attendance Allowance — a non means tested tax-free allowance that can significantly offset or even cover the full cost of care. The standard Attendance Allowance offers up to £110.40 per week, but there is a lower rate of £73.90 per week for those who require frequent help or supervision during the day, night, or both. You’ll receive the higher rate if your loved one needs assistance during the day and at night, or if they are terminally ill. The lower rate applies if they need supervision during the day or at night.
Attendance Allowance can help cover costs before your loved one’s care needs increase, or offset their £100 local authority contribution completely if they are receiving regular support from a care provider.
For more detailed information, you can visit Wales Government’s charging guide or Carers UK’s benefits advice.
Building Trust and Early Support
Many families start with just a few hours of care per week—perhaps companionship for shopping trips or reassurance while bathing. These small steps help maintain independence and build a trusting relationship with the care provider.
Establishing a relationship with a care provider before urgent needs arise means that when a crisis happens, your loved one is with someone they already trust. This familiarity reduces stress and allows for quicker, more tailored support when it’s needed most. This introductory phase of introducing care and support with 2 or 3 visits a week can be completely covered by their attendance allowance.
When More Support Is Needed
As time progresses, your loved one might need help with personal care tasks like managing medications, applying compression stockings, or preparing meals. At this stage, we can help you explore funding options via your local authority to help cover the costs.
Navigating Funding Options
1. Referral to Local Authority:
We can assist by making a referral to the local authority, which might lead to funding support based on a thorough needs assessment. Many clients only pay the first £100 towards their care costs, with the rest covered by funding. If you opt for a financial assessment and fall below their thresholds your weekly care costs may be completely covered.
2. Direct Payments:
If eligible, your family can receive direct payments to manage care costs independently, offering more flexibility and control.
3. Attendance Allowance:
We can help with applications for this benefit, which pays up to £110 weekly and is not means-tested, directly supporting care costs. Attendance allowance doesn’t get taken away when you start receiving funded support from the locaul authority.
Why Early Engagement Is Crucial
Starting support early allows us to:
Offer personalized, tailored care based on your loved one’s individual needs and preferences
Ensure a seamless transition when their care requirements change
Help you access financial support and benefits with expert guidance
Coordinate specialist referrals like occupational therapy, district nurses, and GP services at the right time
Provide peace of mind, knowing your loved one is receiving trustworthy, high-quality care
We’re Here to Help
If you’re concerned about your loved one’s wellbeing and want to explore care funding options, contact us today. We’re dedicated to guiding you through every step, from initial support to securing funding and building a caring, trusting relationship. Reach out today and book a call with one of our experienced advisors, click here: to download our guide or book a call.
