Long-Term Care - How to avoid issues with Care Contracts and Care Funding

Karon Walton, Care Advisor at Warner Goodman LLP, provides insight on how to avoid the mistakes commonly made when reviewing Care Contracts and Care Funding.

One of the biggest concerns for many people is that they may have to receive care one day. This could be from their home or in some form of supported living such as a care home. When decisions like this need to be made, it can be a time of worry, distress, and confusion for the individual and the family involved.

Advice about what to do and the processes involved are available through various channels. You can often seek help from social services, charities, and even care homes. However, we always recommend seeking legal advice regarding any care contracts or deferred payment arrangements that require signing. Any agreement signed is legally binding, and it is crucial to understand what you agree to and what services you should expect in return.

It would be best if you took plenty of time to ensure you understand the terms of the agreement before you sign. Ensuring you understand key aspects is vital, like knowing your rights if a dispute arises or whether the contract provides the required service and care.

In addition to contracts, planning how the care will be funded would also benefit you. Can you pay for it personally, or would you need assistance from a third party? If you cannot afford care, some organisations can help, such as the Local Authorities or the Care Commission Board for NHS Continuing Health Care.

Karon Walton, Care Advisor at Warner Goodman LLP, expressed her concerns, "it is essential to speak to a lawyer with experience in care law and obtain this advice at the earliest possible opportunity. I've had the unfortunate experience of receiving incorrect advice, but I was lucky and knew the information provided was inaccurate. However, it concerns me greatly that there could be many people out there that have also received the wrong information. Incorrect advice could cost the individual considerable amounts of money in the long term."

Receiving care or entering a care home is a significant change in circumstances. We recommend you review all your legal documents, such as your Will and Lasting Powers of Attorney, to ensure they reflect your wishes.

It's essential that your affairs and finances are in order and to ensure that you obtain extra benefits such as Attendance Allowance or Council Tax exemptions to which you may be entitled to. Benefits like these are often overlooked and under-claimed.

To obtain help and assistance with care contracts or care funding and to understand more about the benefits of care arrangements, please contact, Karon Walton at Warner Goodman LLP on 01329 288 121 or email karonwalton@warnergoodman.co.uk. Address: Portland Chambers 66 West Street Fareham PO16 0JR.