Independent financial advice

Planning for your future care can be difficult. You can’t predict the support you’ll need, and so the costs can be complicated to work out.

However, without planning, money put aside for care can often run out relatively quickly. The council can help with some funding, but we might not be able to give you the full amount needed. This means your family have to contribute to your care costs, or you can move to another house or care home. You may also see differences in the level or type of services you receive.

Taking specialist and regulated financial advice when you’re starting to consider your care options is a good step to avoiding uncertainty midway through paying for your care. Even if you are already receiving care, either in your home or in a care home, you can still get financial advice.

Where can I get independent advice?

There are lots of places to get information and advice. You can visit:

• www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk
• www.unbiased.co.uk
• www.vouchedfor.co.uk
• www.societyoflaterlifeadvisers.co.uk

If you decide to speak to another organisation about your care and finances, you should make sure:

• the advisor is in your area
• they are qualified to offer independent advice on all the products and services you’re interested in
• they specialise in self-financing long-term care.

For more information, visit the Financial Conduct Authority.