Paying for housing support
This content applies to England only.
Housing laws vary between England and Scotland. Get advice relating to Scotland
This section looks at the help you may be able to get to pay for support services to allow you to carry on living in your home.
If you are receiving housing support services, you will either have to pay for them yourself, or if you have a low income you may be able to get help from Supporting People.
What are housing support services?
Housing support services are any form of help that enables you to carry on living independently in your home. These services may be provided by the council, voluntary agencies or private companies or individuals. Examples of housing support could include having a support worker or a warden in a sheltered housing complex. Housing support services don't include personal or nursing care services, such as help with getting dressed and bathed.
Do I have to pay for housing support services?
If, following an assessment of your needs, it is decided that you would benefit from housing support services, the social services department should also carry out an assessment of your financial situation to see if you can afford to pay for all or some of your housing support services.
If you cannot afford to contribute towards your housing support services or can only pay towards some of the cost, the rest of the cost may be met by Supporting People or the council.
If you currently receive housing benefit, you are unlikely to have to pay towards the cost of your support services.
Once your housing support services have been arranged, the council may have a contract with your housing support provider and may be responsible for paying them. If you have to pay for your support services, you may make payments to the council or the service provider.
Can I get direct payments to pay for housing support services?
If you are entitled to funding from Supporting People, you can ask to get it as a direct payment so that you can make your own support arrangements.
Where can I find out more?
If you have any queries about Supporting People, you should contact the Supporting People Team at your local council.
Alternatively, your local Shelter advice centre may be able to help. Many of our local services have advisers specialising in disability and/or care needs, debt and welfare benefits as well as housing. Alternatively, a local Citizens Advice or other advice centre may be able to help you. Use our directory to find services in your area.
