Do you get 6 weeks free care?

Intermediate care is a short-term service designed to support individuals in regaining their confidence and independence after hospitalisation. This type of care is not means-tested, meaning financial circumstances do not impact eligibility. The support provided can include:

• Assistance with personal care, such as washing, dressing, and toileting
• Help with meal preparation and household tasks
• Physiotherapy and mobility support
• Provision of equipment to aid daily activities

Who Is Eligible for Free Home Care?

Intermediate care is available for individuals who:

• Have recently been discharged from hospital and require additional support at home
• Need short-term assistance to avoid hospital admission
• Are struggling with daily tasks due to illness or injury

Most people receive care for one to two weeks, but depending on recovery progress, support can extend up to six weeks. Availability varies by local authority, so it is important to check with your local social services department.

Beyond intermediate care, several free services can help maintain independence at home.

Free Home Adaptations and Equipment

If mobility challenges make daily life more difficult, you may be eligible for free home adaptations, provided individual items do not exceed £1,000. These include:

• Handrails for stairs
• Grab rails in the bathroom
• Intercom systems for answering the door
• Ramps for wheelchair access
• Walking frames
• Perching stools for kitchen or shower use
• Heating system improvements if linked to a medical condition

If you require equipment provided by a hospital, such as a toilet surround frame, it should be free of charge.

How to Apply: Contact your local council’s adult social care team to request a home assessment. If eligible, necessary modifications will be provided at no cost.

Benefits That Help with Care Costs

Certain financial benefits can assist in covering care needs:

• Attendance Allowance – For individuals over State Pension age who need assistance due to illness or disability.
• Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – For those under State Pension age with long-term disabilities.
• Carer’s Allowance – For those providing care for at least 35 hours a week.

Applications for these benefits can be completed online or via post. Ensure that you check eligibility criteria and submit all required documentation.

If you experience a fall, illness, or find daily activities increasingly difficult, short-term home care may be available to prevent hospital admission. Support services may include:

• Help with dressing, bathing, and meal preparation
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• Assistance with household tasks

How to Access Support: Speak to your GP or local social services team to arrange an assessment and determine what services are available in your area.

Understanding available care services ensures that individuals receive necessary support without financial burden. If you or a loved one require assistance, take the following steps:

• Contact your local council’s adult social services department.
• Speak to your GP or hospital discharge team about care options.
• Explore eligibility for financial support or home adaptations.
• Consider private home care services if additional assistance is needed.

At Home Instead Hamilton, we recognise that navigating the care system can be challenging. Our compassionate team is here to provide guidance, whether you need short-term support or long-term care solutions.