Your council assesses needs and finances, then pays some or all of the cost — or gives you the money as Direct Payments.
You pay the provider directly, from savings, pension or family support — with full choice and no waiting lists.
Council-funded care
Under the Care Act 2014, councils across Greater London — including Barking and Dagenham, Redbridge and neighbouring boroughs — must assess anyone who appears to need care and support. It happens in three steps.
Care needs assessment
A social worker or occupational therapist looks at your loved one's physical, cognitive and day-to-day needs.
Financial assessment (the means test)
The council compares savings, capital and income against national thresholds for England:
Personal budget and Direct Payments
If your loved one qualifies, you can ask for Direct Payments. Instead of the council choosing from its own list of providers, the money is paid to you — so you're free to choose the CQC-registered home care provider you trust.
Paying privately (self-funding)
Self-funding means paying for home care directly — from savings, pensions or family support, or because savings are above the council limit.
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How we support council and private clients
We believe everyone deserves compassionate, person-centred care — however it's paid for.
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