Understanding Funding for Care in Scotland
Planning for care is one of the most important decisions you and your family may make. At Meallmore, we believe in providing clear, honest advice to help you understand how care fees work, what support you may be entitled to, and how to plan for the future.
Whether you’re arranging care for yourself or a loved one, our teams are here to help you feel informed, supported and confident every step of the way.
How is Care Funded in Scotland?
First off it's important to understand who pays, when they pay and how they pay. Care in Scotland is funded differently than in other parts of the UK. Below is a clear breakdown of how it works and what you're entitled to.
Everyone over the age of 65 is entitled to a Free Personal Care Allowance. If you or a loved one has nursing needs you may also be entitled to Free Nursing Care. Please note that these payments don't usually cover accommodation, food or additional services.
Available to all adults over the age of 65 living in Scotland. Paid directly to your care provider by your local council.
Available to all adults over the age of 65 living in Scotland that require nursing as part of their care. Paid directly to your care provider by your local council.
Determined by a care needs assessment from your local authority.
This includes income, savings, and property (if applicable).
Whether you’ll be fully supported, partially funded, or self-funding.
What can affect the level of funding available?
Your eligibility for care funding in Scotland depends on more than just your income. Local authorities assess both your care needs and your financial situation to determine how much support you're entitled to.
We're One of Scotland's Most Trusted Care Providers.
Choosing a care home is one of life’s most important decisions. At Meallmore, we understand the trust families place in us. We provide more than just care - we create a home where residents feel valued, engaged, and supported. Here's what just a few of our residents family members had to say:
Over the last 2 years. Mum, sadly passed away a week ago. The care given at this time was beyond my expectations. I can without hesitation say the management and staff gave my mum their devoted time and professional care gave me comfort. It was a decision I had to make 2yrs ago to put mum into care I chose the right one.
"Meallmore" have given me memories of all she accomplished while in their care. But most of all that final day the palliative care given is why I can thank everyone. I know my mum when she was able thanked you also.
The staff are very friendly and nothing is too much trouble. There is an extensive range of activities to suit all capabilities and I have accompanied my father to many of these, which he has enjoyed.
The food is varied and nourishing and should he not want anything on the menu there is nothing the staff are not able to provide for him. He eats well and has gained weight in the time he has been there.
The surroundings are beautiful, furnished to the highest standard and there is always tea, coffee and soft drinks available to visitors, along with delicious home baking. I am always made to feel welcome and can visit any time and stay as long as I like.
Within 24 hours of his move Dad was at a Christmas party enjoying the celebrations of a loving, caring environment. He has a fabulous room. We never thought that Dad would be out of bed again.
The staff at "Meallmore" are just exceptional. The environment is lively, homely and supportive. Previously, Dad had lost a lot of weight and was very frail. Within an hour of arrival at the home Dad was receiving a bowl of home made soup and since has enjoyed fabulous home made meals with choices provided.
Dad has put on weight and is now talking, participating in activities and enjoying a loving and caring environment. We cannot thank the staff enough.
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Types of Funding Support
The amount you may need to pay for care depends on both your financial circumstances and the type of care you need. In Scotland, support may come from your local authority, a third party, or through private means.
Here's how each funding route works:
Local Authority Funding
If you have less than £21,500 in savings or assets, you may be eligible for full or partial funding from your local council. They will conduct a financial assessment alongside a care needs assessment. In some cases, the council will contribute to accommodation costs as well as personal care.
Local Authority Top-Up
If your chosen care home costs more than the amount the council is willing to pay, yourself, a family member or third party may pay the difference – known as a ‘top-up’. We’ll always be transparent about any top-up requirements and help you plan for long-term sustainability.
Full Self-Funding
If you have more than £35,000 in assets, you’ll usually be expected to pay for your care in full. However, you will still receive the standard personal and nursing care contributions from the local authority. Many of our residents pay privately and we can offer guidance around budgeting, care fee planning, and exploring funding options.
Getting a care needs assessment
Before funding can be confirmed, your local council will carry out a care needs assessment. This determines the level of care and support you require. It’s free and available to anyone over 65.
Once care needs are established, a financial assessment will help identify what the council may contribute – and what you or your family may be responsible for. If you’re unsure where to start, we can help you understand how to request an assessment and what to expect.
Where to Find Independent Advice
It’s always a good idea to get professional or independent support when exploring care funding.
Care Information Scotland
Provides clear advice on the care system and how to apply for funding.
Age Scotland
Helpful publications, telephone advice and funding checklists.
Citizens Advice Scotland
Free, impartial support to help you manage money, understand rights, and plan for care.
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Frequently Asked Questions
We know the financial side of care can feel confusing – especially when you’re juggling emotional decisions too. These FAQs are designed to provide clear, simple answers to the questions we hear most often.
Our Reviews Speak For Themselves.
Our residents experience enriched living across all our Meallmore Care Homes.
At Meallmore, we're dedicated to crafting an extraordinary experience for our residents. We believe in embracing life to the fullest, fostering independence, preserving dignity, and championing choice in every aspect of daily living.
Our compassionate team, from caregivers and nurses to activities coordinators and chefs, is passionately committed to a person-centered approach. We take the time to truly understand each resident, their unique preferences, and what brings them joy.
Life at Meallmore is a personalised journey, whether it involves engaging activities, meaningful social connections, serene moments of reflection, nourishing meals, or holistic well-being.
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