© 2026 End of Life Network

Paying for End-of-Life Care in the UK: What You Need to Know

When someone is nearing the end of their life, they may need extra help and support. This can include help at home, nursing care, equipment, or emotional support. In the UK, there are different ways that end-of-life care can be funded. Some of the support may be free, while other parts might need to be paid for. This guide explains the main options available and how to get help.

Who Pays for End-of-Life Care?

It depends on the person’s needs, where they receive care, and what services are involved. Here are the main ways care may be funded:

  • NHS-Funded Care (Free)
    Some people with serious health needs may get their care paid for in full by the NHS.
    • This is a package of care for people with complex medical needs.
    • It is free and can be provided at home, in a care home, or in another setting.
    • To get it, the person needs to be assessed by a team of healthcare professionals.
    • The assessment looks at things like mobility, breathing, nutrition, and mental health needs.

If your loved one is nearing the end of life, they may qualify for a fast-track assessment, which speeds up the process.

  • Local Authority Social Care (May Be Means-Tested)
    If the person doesn’t qualify for NHS Continuing Healthcare, they may still be able to get support from the local council.
    • This includes help with washing, dressing, eating, and staying safe at home.
    • The local council will carry out a care needs assessment and a financial assessment.
    • Care may be partly or fully funded, depending on the person’s income, savings, and assets.
  • Help from Charities and Hospices (Often Free)
    Many charities and hospices in the UK provide free end-of-life care and support.
    • For example, Marie Curie offers nurses to help care for people in their own homes, especially overnight.
    • Macmillan Cancer Support provides nurses, advice, and emotional support.
    • Local hospices offer care in hospice buildings or in the person’s home if they have complex needs, usually free of charge.
    • You can speak to your GP, district nurse or palliative care team about what’s available in your area.
  • Personal Budgets and Direct Payments
    If your loved one qualifies for NHS or council support, they might be offered a personal budget.
    • This is an amount of money to pay for care in a way that suits their needs.
    • It can be paid as direct payments, so they or a family member can choose and manage the care.
  • Attendance Allowance (For Those Over State Pension Age)
    Even if the person does not qualify for NHS or council-funded care, they may be able to claim Attendance Allowance.
    • This is a tax-free benefit for people over State Pension age who need help due to illness or disability.
    • It helps with extra costs of care and can be spent however needed.
    • Paid at two rates depending on the level of help needed.
    • It is not means-tested, so savings or income do not affect eligibility.
  • Personal Independence Payment (PIP) (For Those Aged 16 to State Pension Age)
    Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a benefit for people aged 16 to State Pension age who have a long-term illness or disability.
  • Helps with the extra costs of living with a health condition, including end-of-life care needs.
  • Not means-tested—can be received alongside other benefits.
  • Has two parts: daily living and mobility, each with standard and enhanced rates.
    • Fast-Track PIP for Terminal Illness
      • People with a terminal illness (expected to live less than 12 months) can apply under Special Rules. This means no face-to-face assessment, and the benefit is usually awarded more quickly and at the enhanced rate.

Getting Help and Advice

The care system can be confusing, especially at an emotional time. These organisations can help guide you:

© 2026 End of Life Network