Charges for social care
The cost of a service varies, depending on your eligibility to receive it. In some cases services may be free. In others, a charge may be applied, in line with our our eligibility criteria and our charging policy.
Free services
As part of our assessment process, we will assess whether you are entitled to free personal care and other free services. Your named worker will discuss the options with you.
Our charging policy has full details of all free services.
Personal care
There is no charge for the personal care part of your care at home service. If you receive free personal care only, you will not be asked to complete a financial information form.
If your service changes to include a chargeable service, you will be asked to complete a form to enable us to assess your contribution.
Care and support charging policies in Scotland
The current charging policies for care and support in Scotland are guided by regulations.
Free personal and nursing care
Personal and nursing care is provided free of charge to all adults who are assessed as being eligible.
Residential care
People who are permanently admitted to residential care are required to contribute towards their care and accommodation costs. The amount is determined through a financial assessment based on their income and assets.
Non-residential care
Local authorities can charge for non-residential care services, such as home care and day care. The charges are based on the person's ability to pay. It takes into account their income and certain disregarded expenses.
Waiving charges for carers
Under the Carers (Scotland) Act 2016, charges for support provided to unpaid carers are waived.
Guidance and local discretion
The Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA) provides guidance on social care charging, which local authorities use to develop their own charging policies. This guidance ensures consistency while allowing for local discretion where appropriate.
These policies aim to balance the need for funding social care services with the principle of fairness, ensuring that people contribute according to their means.