When someone’s care needs are mainly due to health conditions, the NHS may be responsible for funding their care.
This funding is called NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC).
Many families are not told about CHC at the outset, and it can feel confusing. This guide explains what it is, how it works and where to seek support.
If you would like a broader overview of care funding first, you may find it helpful to read:
What Is NHS Continuing Healthcare?
NHS Continuing Healthcare is a package of ongoing care arranged and fully funded by the NHS for individuals who are assessed as having a primary health need.
It is
- Not means-tested
- Free at the point of delivery
- Available in care homes, nursing homes or a person’s own home
Where awarded, CHC usually covers the full cost of care.
What Is a Primary Health Need?
Eligibility is not based on diagnosis alone. Instead, the NHS considers whether the majority of care required arises from health needs rather than social care needs.
The assessment looks at:
- Nature of needs
- Intensity
- Complexity
- Unpredictability
Some conditions often associated with CHC assessments include advanced dementia, neurological conditions, severe physical disabilities and complex long-term illnesses — but each decision is based on the individual’s overall needs.
How the Assessment Process Works
- Stage 1 – The Checklist
- Stage 2 – The Decision Support Tool (DST)
- Stage 3 – The Decision
- Fast Track Pathway
If CHC Is Not Awarded
If funding is declined, you have the right to:
- Request a review
- Provide additional information
- Appeal the decision
- Make a formal complaint
Many families choose to seek specialist advice during this process, as it can feel complex.
Free and Independent Advice About NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC)
If you are exploring NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC), free and independent support is available. Speaking to someone early can make the process feel clearer and more manageable.
Beacon CHC
Funded by NHS England, Beacon provides free, impartial guidance on CHC.
They offer:
- Clear information about eligibility and assessments
- Support understanding appeals
- Up to 90 minutes of free personalised advice with a trained adviser
Free helpline: 0345 548 0300
Other Free Support
Patients Association
A national charity offering a free helpline for advice about NHS services, including CHC.
Citizens Advice
Free, confidential guidance on healthcare rights, funding concerns and complaints, with signposting to specialist services where needed.
Local Support
You can also contact:
- Healthwatch England for local information and signposting
- Your local Integrated Care Board (ICB) to ask about CHC assessments in your area
Free specialist advice can be extremely helpful, particularly at the start of the process. Reaching out early can provide reassurance and clarity at what is often a challenging time.