Self-funding social care: Experiences of navigating the system in Rutland

Commissioned by Rutland County Council, our independent research engaged 129 local residents through interviews, focus groups and survey.

The findings highlight areas of practical support from proactive professionals and some participants reporting their journey as easy, with good outcomes. But many express confusion and lack of guidance about what support and services are available.  

Dr Janet Underwood, Chair of Healthwatch Rutland said:

“The system expects people to independently source reliable information, make objective financial decisions and manage arrangements for care without having any prior knowledge or experience and at a time of immense stress. They have to make difficult decisions about care, costs, and legal responsibilities with limited support.

We hope that the insight provided in this report will be taken forward to ensure that self-funders of social care receive the guidance and support they need for informed, confident care choices.”

Rutland County Council has welcomed the findings and is already working with their participation groups to improve the information and support available for people who pay for their own care.

Councillor Diane Elllison, Portfolio Holder for Adults and Health, Rutland County Council said: 

‘I really appreciate the learning within this report and in particular the honesty and frankness of the respondents. From my own personal experience of trying to navigate care provision and dealing with the complexities that can come with it, I really welcome this initiative. It provides us with the opportunity to further develop our information, advice and guidance offer to aid people’s decision making and provide reassurance for those seeking care and their families'.