Paying for care: independent financial advice

Learn when you may need independent financial advice, where to get it and what support is available when paying for care.


When to get independent financial advice

You may need advice from someone independent of the council to help you understand your options and make decisions about paying for care.

This is important if:

  • there are several options and the council cannot recommend one over another
  • there may be a conflict between your interests and the council’s
  • you are about to enter a legal agreement, such as a deferred payment, and the council cannot advise you
  • you want advice on financial products to help you manage your money or assets

Sources of independent financial advice

Organisations and websites

You can get independent financial advice from:

Other organisations you may find helpful:

Independent financial advisers (IFAs)

Independent financial advisers (IFAs) can recommend financial products and give advice on managing your money. They usually charge a fee for their services.

The council does not check IFAs and cannot recommend a specific adviser. We are not responsible for the advice or services they provide.

Extra support

If you do not have family or friends to help, or if understanding financial advice is difficult, we may be able to arrange a free advocate to support you.

An advocate can help you:

  • understand the advice you are given
  • ask questions on your behalf
  • make sure your views and wishes are heard

Read about how to get an advocate.