The Cost of Care

The Cost of Care: Care Homes, Nursing Homes vs. Live-in Care at Home with District Home Care

Choosing the right long-term care option for yourself or a loved one involves careful consideration of both care needs and cost. This guide compares the cost of residential care homes, nursing homes, and live-in care at home, helping families make informed decisions that prioritise quality of life, dignity, and financial clarity.



1. Understanding the Care Options


Care Homes (Residential)

Care homes provide accommodation, meals, and personal care (such as help with washing, dressing, and mobility). They are suitable for people who need daily support but not 24-hour medical supervision.


Nursing Homes

Nursing homes offer all the services of a care home, with the addition of 24-hour support from qualified nurses. These are often chosen by people with more complex health needs.


Live-in Care at Home

Live-in care involves a professional carer living in the home to provide one-to-one support tailored to the individual’s needs. This allows the person to remain in the comfort and familiarity of their own home while receiving full-time care.



 

2. Cost Comparison (Southeast England – 2025 Estimates)


With District Home Care: All fees are discussed at the time of assessment and are based on the level of support required.
No hidden costs: Once we have agreed your support needs and weekly fee, there are no unexpected or ‘loaded’ charges, we do encourage you to seek a couple of quotes and also explore the possibility that if the weekly rate appears cheap, ask these questions:


3. compare the full-time care options for care homes, nursing homes or staying in your own home 

Info-graph giving an estimated cost for nursing homes, care homes and District Home Care live in costs based on the general market in Surrey.


4. Benefits of Live-in Care

  • Stay at home: Remain in familiar surroundings, close to loved ones and your community.
  • Personalised care: Tailored one-on-one support based on your preferences and lifestyle.
  • Continuity: Consistent caregivers and routines.
  • No moving stress: Avoids the emotional impact of moving into a residential facility.
  • Access to NHS community support services: Ensures holistic care with no extra arrangement fees.


5. Funding and Financial Support

You may be eligible for financial help with your care costs:


  • Local Authority Funding: Means-tested support based on savings and income.
  • NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC): Full funding for individuals with ongoing health needs.

https://www.nhs.uk/social-care-and-support/money-work-and-benefits/nhs-continuing-healthcare/

  • Attendance Allowance: Non-means-tested benefit for those over pension age needing care.

https://www.gov.uk/attendance-allowance

  • Direct Payments: Receive council funds directly to manage and arrange your own care.

https://www.gov.uk/apply-direct-payments

  • Grants for Home Modifications: Available through local councils or charities for necessary adaptations.

https://www.gov.uk/apply-disabled-facilities-grant


6. Talk to Us

At District Home Care, we believe in transparency, dignity, and personalised support. Our care team will work with you to build a package that fits your needs and budget—with no surprises.

📞 Call us: 01483 721515
📧
Email: info@districthomecare.co.uk

📄Enquiry form


Enquiry Form -

Interested in live-in care or want to understand your options?
Fill in the form below and our care team will be in touch for a free, no-obligation consultation:

Please complete the form below to receive a copy of our brochure.

Fields marked with * are required.

Contact Us

12 September 2025
Organising Care
12 September 2025
Choosing a Care Agency
12 September 2025
🍃 Environmental Sustainability
12 September 2025
🌍 Caring for People and the Planet
12 September 2025
Supporting Our Team’s Mental Health with Bupa’s Employee Assistance Programme
12 September 2025
We are committed to delivering exceptional, person-centred care by building a team of compassionate, dedicated, and skilled individuals. While we actively recruit experienced professionals, we are equally enthusiastic about speaking to those who are new to the care sector but have the right values and a genuine desire to make a difference. No previous care experience, we provide full training and support to help our staff gain skills and confidence. All members of our care team, regardless of experience, complete a thorough recruitment and training process, which includes: · Face to Face interviews and detailed reference checks · A structured induction and orientation programme · Practical skills assessments and experience verification · To ensure the highest standards of safety and quality for those we support, we also implement the following quality assurance measures · Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks · Verified Care Certificate or equivalent health and social care qualifications (training provided if not held) · Full public liability and professional indemnity insurance · Employers’ liability and workers’ compensation cover · Ongoing mandatory training and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Thoughtfully arranged introductions between clients and care staff to foster trust, familiarity, and continuity We are proud to support career development at every stage, offering fully funded qualifications in Adult Health and Social Care—from Entry Level through to Level 5. Whether you're just starting out or looking to advance your career, we provide structured pathways to help you succeed and grow. This approach ensures every member of our team is confident, capable, and supported to deliver high-quality, compassionate care in the home. Interested in joining our team or want to learn more? Contact Us for Further Information:
12 September 2025
If caring for others comes naturally to you, why not put your compassion to good use and support someone who truly needs it? Your kindness could make a real difference in their life and help them feel more positive about their own circumstances. At District Home Care, we believe in making a real difference — not just to the people we support, but to the incredible people who work with us. Whether you’re new to care or an experienced professional, we welcome you to join a team that values compassion, commitment, and community. Why Choose District Home Care? Competitive Pay We offer good rates of pay that reflect the vital role our carers play. Your work deserves to be rewarded fairly. Recognition That Matters From “Carer of the Month” shoutouts to long-service awards, your efforts never go unnoticed. We celebrate the people who make our service outstanding. Clear Pathways for Progression Whether you want to specialise, take on more responsibility, or move into leadership — we’re here to help you grow. With access to ongoing training, qualifications, and development opportunities, your career in care can go as far as you want it to. Guaranteed Hours & Job Security We offer guaranteed contracted hours, providing the stability you need, with flexible working patterns that support your lifestyle. Supportive Team Culture You’ll never feel like just a number. We’re a close-knit, professional team that looks out for each other. No Experience? No Problem. If you’re kind, reliable, and want to make a difference, we’ll give you full training and mentoring to get started with confidence.
11 September 2025
We offer a wide range of services to help you live well and safely at home from as little as 30 minutes per day to all day and night care.
11 September 2025
We offer a wide range of services to help you live well and safely at home from as little as 30 minutes per day to all day and night care.
11 September 2025
We understand that everyone’s situation is different. That’s why our care services are designed to support: Individuals living alone, helping to promote independence, reduce loneliness, and ensure daily needs are met. Couples living together, even if one or both have different levels of care needs. We support both partners in remaining together at home, preserving relationships and routines. Our approach is person-centred, meaning we take time to understand your lifestyle, routines, preferences, and health requirements before creating a personalised care plan.