Paying for Home Care in Ealing: A Plain Guide

Arranging care for a loved one can bring up a lot of questions. One of the biggest is often the simplest: how much will it cost, and who will pay for it?

If you are exploring home care in Ealing for a parent, partner or another family member, you may be worried about whether professional support will fit your budget. You might also be unsure whether Ealing Council can help or whether there are benefits you have not claimed.

The good news is that you do not have to work everything out alone.

This guide explains the main home care costs, how council funding works, and where families can look for financial support.

How much does home care in Ealing cost?

The cost of home care depends on the type of support someone needs and how often a carer visits.

Most agencies charge by the hour for visiting care, while live-in care is usually priced by the week. There is no single price that suits every situation, so it is worth discussing your family's needs before comparing quotes.

Here are some of the main factors that affect the cost:

• Number of visits: A short visit a few times a week will usually cost less than several visits every day.
• Time of day: Evening, weekend and bank holiday visits may have different rates.
• Level of support: Someone who needs help with personal care, mobility or medication may require a different care plan from someone who mainly needs companionship.
• Specialist needs: Dementia care and more complex support may require carers with additional training and experience.
• Number of carers: Some moving and handling tasks require two carers for safety.

When comparing home care costs in Ealing, ask each agency for a written quote. Check the minimum visit length, weekend charges, cancellation terms and any additional fees. This makes it easier to understand what you will actually pay.

Looking for a quote? Exodus Home Care can discuss your needs and explain the available options. Add the agency's confirmed hourly and weekly rates here before publishing.

Can Ealing Council help pay for home care?

Yes, you may be eligible for financial support from Ealing Council, depending on your care needs and financial circumstances.

The first step is to request a care needs assessment. This helps the council understand what support you need with everyday activities, such as washing, dressing, preparing meals or moving around safely.

You can start through Ealing Council's online self-referral form. If the situation is urgent, contact the council's adult social care service on 020 8825 8000 and select the adults' option.

If your needs qualify for support, the council may carry out a financial assessment to work out whether you need to contribute towards the cost.

For England's 2026/27 financial year, the main capital limits are:

• More than £23,250: You will generally be expected to pay for your own care, subject to the applicable rules and any disregarded assets.
• Between £14,250 and £23,250: Your contribution is assessed under the council's charging rules, and you may qualify for financial help.
• £14,250 or less: Your capital is generally not taken into account in the same way, but you may still need to contribute from your income, depending on your assessment.

These figures are not a guarantee of funding. The council must consider your individual circumstances, the type of care you receive and the relevant charging rules.

If you receive support from the council, ask whether a direct payment is available. This can give you greater control over how your eligible care budget is used, including the option of arranging care with a suitable agency.

You can read the government's 2026/27 social care charging guidance for more information.

Benefits and other funding options worth checking

Council funding is not the only option. Depending on your circumstances, certain benefits or NHS support may help with the cost of care.

Attendance Allowance

Attendance Allowance may be available to people who have reached State Pension age and need help with personal care or supervision because of a disability or health condition.

For 2026/27, the weekly rates are £76.70 or £114.60, depending on the level of need. The benefit is not means-tested, so savings and income do not determine eligibility.

Find out more through the official Attendance Allowance guidance.

Carer's Allowance

If you provide substantial unpaid care for someone, you may qualify for Carer's Allowance if you meet the eligibility conditions.

The rules include requirements relating to the number of hours you spend caring, the benefits received by the person you support and your earnings. Check the current rules before relying on this benefit as part of your budget.

You can read the latest Carer's Allowance eligibility guidance.

NHS Continuing Healthcare

Some people have significant ongoing health needs that may qualify them for NHS Continuing Healthcare. If eligible, the NHS can fund an assessed package of care at home.

Eligibility depends on the person's overall health needs, not simply their diagnosis or income. Funding is not automatic, and an assessment is required.

If you think this might apply to your relative, speak to their GP, hospital team or local NHS service about requesting an assessment.

Get help with benefit applications

Benefit forms and funding rules can be confusing, especially when you are already caring for a family member. Age UK Ealing and Citizens Advice may be able to offer information or guidance on the options available to you.

Five common mistakes to avoid when arranging home care

A little preparation can help you avoid unnecessary costs and make better decisions for your family.

1. Waiting until there is a crisis

If someone is struggling with daily tasks, arranging support early may help them remain safe and independent at home. You do not have to wait for a fall or hospital admission before asking for advice.

2. Assuming you will not qualify for financial support

Some families rule themselves out before checking the eligibility rules. Request an assessment and get advice based on your actual circumstances.

3. Giving away savings to qualify for funding

Giving away money or transferring assets to reduce your assessed capital can lead to a deprivation-of-assets decision. The council may treat some of those assets as though you still have them. Always seek independent advice before making financial decisions for this reason.

4. Assuming your home must be sold

The rules for care provided in your own home differ from those for permanent residential care. Your main home is generally disregarded when a council assesses your finances for care at home, although the full assessment can include other assets and income.

5. Accepting a quote without checking the details

Ask for a written breakdown of the charges before care begins. Make sure you understand the hourly rate, minimum visit length, weekend and bank holiday costs, and any other fees that may apply.

Finding the right home care agency in Ealing

Choosing an agency is about more than finding the lowest price. You also want to know that your loved one will receive reliable, respectful care from people who understand their needs.

Before making a decision, ask about staff training, care planning, continuity of carers, safeguarding procedures and how the agency communicates with families. You should also check the provider's current Care Quality Commission registration and inspection information.

Exodus Home Care is based in Park Royal and provides support for people who want to remain in their own homes. The team can discuss your situation, explain the available care options and arrange a home assessment.

If you are unsure whether visiting care or live-in care would be more suitable, a conversation about your loved one's daily routine is a useful place to start.

Need advice about paying for home care in Ealing?

You do not need to have every answer before asking for help. Understanding the available services, checking your eligibility for support and comparing written quotes can make the next step much easier.

Contact Exodus Home Care to discuss your family's needs or learn more about home care in Ealing.

If your loved one needs more continuous support, you can also explore the agency's live-in care services.

This guide provides general information for England and is not financial or legal advice. Council charging rules, benefits and eligibility requirements can change, so check the latest official guidance before making a decision.