Funding your Care

Making the decision to move to residential care is big one. And, whereas our staff and facilities help to make the transition as seamless as possible, there are financial aspects to consider also.

The Nursing Homes Support Scheme, better known as ‘Fair Deal Funding’ or “Fair Deal Scheme” is a scheme of financial support for people who need long-term nursing home care. Under the scheme a contribution is made by the resident with the State paying the balance. This applies to private, public or voluntary arrangements. One of the great benefits of the scheme is that residents can choose the nursing home in Ireland they wish to stay/reside in.

There are three steps in applying for the scheme. Step 1 and 2 apply to everyone with step 3 being an optional step:

Step 1: A Care Needs Assessment will be carried out by a healthcare professional which will determine whether or not residential care is required.

Step 2: The application for State support takes place with a financial assessment to determine care contributions.

Step 3 (optional): This is to be completed should the resident require a Nursing Home Loan (or “Ancillary State Support”)

The HSE has a comprehensive section on its website for fuller, more in-depth information. You can also ask us about the scheme at consultation stage.