Planning for care can make all the difference
At some point, most of us will need care, whether for ourselves or for someone we love.
It’s not always easy to think about, but taking the time to plan ahead can make an enormous difference. A clear plan helps ensure that, when the time comes, the right care is in place without unnecessary stress, uncertainty or rushed decisions.
With high quality care homes now costing more than £60,000 a year (Source: The Good Care Group), having clarity and confidence about the road ahead has never been more important.
Why you should plan for care
Help you understand your options
Here our experts outline the main care options most people consider, from support at home to residential and nursing care. So what do each of them really involve?
Smarter planning approaches
Making plans now helps ensure the right care is there when it’s needed, shaped around your wishes, and funded in a way that gives you and your loved ones genuine peace of mind.
Appreciate costs and what you get
The costs can vary massively but what exactly do you get for what you pay and is it worth it?
Why your care plan can make all the difference
Care delivered the way you want
Plan how your care will be paid for
Care that reflects your wishes
Eases pressure at a difficult time
Small details make a difference
Still not sure if you need a care plan?
Eight questions to ask yourself
Do I need really need a care plan? It's never too early to plan but this quiz should help you identify how urgent it might be to put the plan in place.
A step-by-step checklist
Expert reviewed guidance from Lottie helping families confidently compare care homes, understand costs, and make informed, high quality decisions choices.
The £86,000 care cost question
Which? highlights how families can face care costs of up to £86,000 when care is needed suddenly and no plan is in place. Without advance planning, decisions are often rushed, options are limited, and families are left navigating complex funding rules at an already stressful time.
Supporting you and those you love
Having a care plan in place means your wishes are protected and the people you trust can step in with confidence. Our Masterclasses help you plan ahead, giving peace of mind to you and reassurance to those who matter most.
Join us for one of our regular in-person Masterclasses.
Here, we will take you through the different stages of care and share real-life client stories so you can see how this works in practice.
Can't join us in person? No worries with this online version.
This condensed version of our Masterclass may skip the food and drink, but it clearly explains why having a care plan matters and how it can make a real difference. If anything feels unclear, you’re not on your own. Book some time with one of our experts, who will be happy to talk it through and help you feel confident about your next steps.
Why plan for care?
Chartered Financial Planner Tim Latham explains why planning for care is such an important part of later‑life financial planning. He explores the key considerations people should think about early on, from protecting choice and independence to easing pressure on loved ones when decisions matter most.