1. Free Care Needs Assessment
- Even if you plan to pay for your own care, you are entitled to a free care needs assessment from Bury Council. This assessment helps you understand what type and level of care you may need and can guide your decisions about arranging support.
- To request an assessment, contact Bury Council’s Adult Social Care team by phone (0161 253 5151) or via the council website.
2. Choosing and Arranging Care
- Home Care and Live-in Care: You can contact local home care agencies directly to arrange care at home, including personal care, companionship, and specialist support such as dementia care.
- Residential and Nursing Care: If you need a care home, you can approach care homes directly to discuss availability, services, and fees. Many care homes in Bury accept self-funding residents, and you can compare options using directories like the Bury Directory.
- Costs: The cost of home care in Bury averages around £24 per hour, while residential care fees typically range from £1,200 to £1,500 per week, depending on the level of support required.
3. Financial Considerations
- If you have savings or investments of £23,250 or more (excluding the value of your main home if you’re receiving care at home), you will not be eligible for financial support from the council and will need to pay the full cost of your care.
- If your assets fall below this threshold, you may become eligible for council support, so it’s important to keep the council informed if your financial situation changes.
- You can still request a financial assessment from the council to check if you might be entitled to any help with costs or benefits advice.
4. Support and Advice for Self-Funders
- Information and Guidance: The Bury Directory and Bury Council website provide information on local care providers, how to choose a service, and what to consider when arranging care yourself.
- Benefits Advice: Even if you are self-funding, you may be entitled to certain benefits (such as Attendance Allowance or Personal Independence Payment). The council can advise you on this during your assessment.
- Managing Your Care: You can choose to manage your care arrangements independently or use a care broker or adviser to help you find and coordinate services.
5. Paying for Care
- You will pay care providers directly for the services you receive. Make sure to check contracts, terms, and what is included in the fees.
- If you arrange care through the council (for example, using a personal budget), the council will invoice you for your contribution.
Summary Table: Self-Funded Care Access
| Step | What to Do |
| 1. Get a free assessment | Contact Bury Council for a care needs assessment |
| 2. Research providers | Use the Bury Directory, or contact agencies directly |
| 3. Arrange care | Contact your chosen provider(s) to discuss needs, costs, and contracts |
| 4. Pay for care | Pay providers directly; keep records and review contracts |
| 5. Seek advice if needed | Ask the council for benefits advice or support with care planning |
Key Contacts
- Bury Council Adult Social Care: 0161 253 5151
- The Bury Directory: theburydirectory.co.uk