How Much Does a Care Home Cost?

As well as varying in line with the type of care your loved one needs, and the specific provider, the average cost of a care home is different across the country. Costs also depend partially on the income and assets of your loved one too, as this determines how much funding they’re entitled to.

Keep reading to find out more about the costs for different types of care, and the financial support available through the local council.

What are the average care home fees in the UK?

When you’re researching funding and care for a loved one, there are various funding options available, depending on their financial situation. Your loved one may be eligible for funding from your local council or the NHS - but it’s useful to familiarise yourself with the average cost of a care home with no financial assistance first.

It’s important to note that nursing care is more costly than residential care, as it generally involves medical attention provided by qualified nursing staff. Below, we’ve estimated what is the average cost of a care home per week, per month and per year - these figures are calculated on the basis that your loved one is paying for their care in its entirety based on data from Carehome.co.uk.

• Average yearly cost for residential care: £60,320 
• Average monthly cost for residential care: £4,640 
• Average weekly cost for residential care: £1,160  

Types of Care Costs 

Residential Care Costs

The fee for residential care usually includes the staples — like accommodation, catering, support from an on-site care team and laundry. Extra amenities outside of these provisions generally come at an additional cost, and there are likely to be different care brackets available, which vary in line with the level of care needed for your loved one.

At Danforth Care, we offer a single, inclusive fee without any hidden costs. Every resident will have the same access to our fantastic range of facilities, with the opportunity for regular outings and events, all at no extra cost. 

Dementia Care Costs 

By contrast, dementia care costs are generally higher than residential or general nursing care, as those living with dementia often require specialist care from highly-trained staff. Dementia carers are very familiar with the challenges the disease can bring with it, and equipped to respond to your loved one’s emotional and medical needs, even if they’re dealing with another illness alongside it.

Getting the right type of care, from the right type of care home, can make all the difference for a person living with dementia. For instance, Danforth Care homes are both designed and purpose-built in a way that assists our residents with recognition and socialising, enabling them to maintain their independence in a secure location. 

Respite Care Costs 

Respite care costs are a little different, as they generally comprise a fee for a short-term stay in a residential or respite care home. These temporary stays are generally organised to give the usual carer a rest and a chance to recuperate.

On average, respite care can cost anywhere between £700 and £1,500 per week, depending on the type of care provisions your loved one needs, and this cost can go up further when the care is organised at the last minute.

Who pays care home fees? 

While local councils do offer funding, and so does the NHS, most people moving into care homes will have to pay at least some of their fees — how much will depend on their financial situation (including income, capital and savings).

Paying for Care in England & Northern Ireland

In England and Northern Ireland, if your loved one has more than £14,250 in savings and assets, they’ll need to pay towards their care fees, but if they have more than £23,250, they’ll need to pay for all of them.

We’ve written a more detailed guide about care funding options we invite you to read. 

What’s included in the fees for Danforth Care facilities? 

Every Danforth Care home charges an inclusive fee, with no hidden charges. That means each of our residents can enjoy nutritious, tasty meals, the wide range of facilities and activities on offer, regular trips and excursions — even chiropody appointments and a weekly slot at the hairdresser, at no extra cost. All this is on top of the comfortable, luxurious accommodation, tailored care plan, and round-the-clock support that our highly trained staff work hard to deliver. 

To find out more about Danforth Care home fees and what’s included, or schedule a viewing, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team.