Putting the right care plans in place for the future

We’re living longer than ever, which is something to celebrate. But it also means more of us will need to think about what kind of care we might want in later life and how to plan for it.

Advance care planning is about making sure that if you, or someone you love, ever need care, things happen on your terms. It gives you control, peace of mind and the confidence that your wishes will be respected.

It can feel like a big subject to tackle, but you don’t have to work it out alone.

Why advance care planning matters

As we get older, there’s often a greater chance of needing support, whether that’s help at home, residential care or NHS-funded services.

The costs involved can be significant, and it’s not always clear what funding or help is available. Without a plan in place, families can face:

• Confusion over who pays for what
• Stress trying to deal with local authority assessments
• Unexpected care costs or unclear contracts
• Delays or refusals when applying for NHS Continuing Healthcare

These situations often arise suddenly, at a time when emotions are already running high. Having a plan means you and your family know what to expect and can focus on what really matters.

What support is available

Depending on your circumstances, you might be entitled to help from your local authority, NHS Continuing Healthcare funding or specialist products like care annuities to help with long-term costs.

This support can make a huge difference, but the process can be daunting. There are detailed forms, strict evidence requirements and multiple assessments. It’s no surprise that many people find it confusing or give up altogether, which could mean missing out on vital help.

How we can help

That’s where we come in.

Here at Hamers, we help individuals and families make sense of care funding and put clear plans in place for the future. Our team has in-depth knowledge of the system and years of experience supporting clients through some of life’s biggest decisions.

We can help you structure your estate in a way that will assist if you require care. We can help to explain deprivation of capital rules

We’ll take the time to understand your situation and give you straightforward advice you can rely on.

Why it pays to plan early

The best time to start planning for care is before you need it. That way, you can:

• Make clear, informed choices
• Understand what support is available
• Avoid unnecessary costs
• Ease the pressure on your family
• Protect your assets and wishes

With the right advice in place, you can feel confident that your future, or the future of a family member, is secure, whatever happens.

In summary

Advance care planning can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. We’ll guide you through every step, help you understand your options and make sure you or your loved one get the care and support you deserve.

Where appropriate, we can also work alongside a regulated financial adviser to make sure your legal and financial plans work hand in hand, giving you complete peace of mind.

Our Accredited Lifetime Lawyer, Loren McDermott, specialises in later-life planning and has completed specialist training to support older clients and those in vulnerable circumstances.

By working with Loren, you’ll have someone on your side who explains things clearly, protects your interests, and makes sure you don’t miss out on the support you’re entitled to.

If you’re worrying about care costs for yourself or a loved one, call our team on 01482 326666 and we’ll help you find a way forward.

*This article is a general summary of the law. It should not replace legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances.