Working out how to pay for dementia care is one of the most stressful parts of the journey. This plain-English guide explains the main funding routes available in Wales, so you know where to start.
Start with a care needs assessment
In Wales, the first step is usually a care needs assessment from your Local Authority — for us, that’s Newport City Council. This assessment looks at the level of care a person needs and is free to request. It’s the gateway to most funding support, so it’s worth arranging early.
Local Authority funding
If someone is eligible for support, the Local Authority carries out a financial assessment to work out how much they contribute towards their care. This depends on income and capital (savings and assets) measured against a threshold set by the Welsh Government, which can change from year to year.
Self-funding
Where savings and assets are above the threshold, care is usually funded privately. Self-funders have a free choice of home and we’re always happy to explain clearly what our fees include, with no pressure.
NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC)
If a person’s needs are primarily health-related, the NHS may fund the full cost of their care through Continuing Healthcare. Eligibility is decided by the local health board following an assessment of need.
Funded Nursing Care (FNC)
For residents in a nursing home who don’t qualify for full CHC, the NHS may still pay a contribution towards the cost of their nursing care — known as Funded Nursing Care.
Where to get independent advice
The system can be complex, and good independent advice is invaluable. Organisations such as Age Cymru and Citizens Advice offer free guidance. We can also talk you through your options — see our Fees & Funding page or get in touch.
This guide is general information, not financial advice. Funding rules and thresholds change, so always check current details with the Local Authority, your health board, or an independent adviser.
We're here to help
If you'd like to talk things through, or arrange a visit to Tregwilym Lodge, we'd be glad to hear from you — there's no obligation.
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