Understanding the Cost of Care and funding of Support at Home
Cost is an important consideration when arranging care or support at home.
The amount you pay can vary depending on the type of support required, where you live, the hours involved and who provides it.
Hub Care Support introduces you to independent, QCAS-approved Personal Assistants who set their own rates. You can understand the likely costs and agree the financial arrangements directly before any support begins.
How much does a Personal Assistant cost?
There is no single national hourly rate for an independent Personal Assistant.
Each PA is independent and decides what they charge for the services they offer. Rates may vary according to:
- location
- experience and skills
- the type of support required
- the days and times involved
- travel requirements
- the length or frequency of visits
- whether overnight or live-in support is needed
- any additional agreed expenses
However Hub Personal Assistants typically charge from £20 per hour.
Your local Hub can explain the typical rates charged by Personal Assistants in your area and identify profiles that may fit what you are looking for.
The final rate and payment arrangements are agreed directly between you and the Personal Assistant.
Hub Personal Assistants set their own rates and typically charge from £20 per hour. Often providing significant savings compared to care agencies.
Can a Personal Assistant cost less than an agency?
Support from an independent Personal Assistant can often cost significantly less than traditional agency care.
This is partly because the Personal Assistant works independently and agrees their rate directly with the person receiving support, rather than being supplied as an employee through an agency structure.
However, prices vary and lower cost should not be the only consideration. It is also important to think about:
- whether the PA offers the support required
- their availability
- relevant experience
- personality and compatibility
- QCAS approval
Your local Hub can explain the rates available locally.
Paying for care and support
Some people pay for support privately. Others may receive help from a local authority, NHS funding, benefits or a personal budget.
Eligibility and funding arrangements vary according to individual circumstances.
Possible sources of support may include:
- local authority care assessments
- personal budgets or direct payments
- Attendance Allowance
- Personal Independence Payment
- NHS Continuing Healthcare
- benefits or financial support for carers
- privately funded arrangements
Hub Care Support cannot determine eligibility for public funding or provide regulated financial advice.
Your local authority, NHS team, Citizens Advice or an appropriately qualified adviser may be able to explain the options available to you.
Find out what support costs locally
Use our postcode search to find your nearest Hub Care Support branch.
Your local Hub can explain typical Personal Assistant rates in your area and help you explore the options available.