As many as 10,000 elderly people in England with chronic illnesses are being denied crucial NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) funding, according to a new report from Age UK. The charity's findings highlight a stark disconnect between how this vital funding mechanism is intended to work and the reality on the ground, leaving thousands of vulnerable individuals without access to the comprehensive care they deserve.
NHS CHC is a bespoke package of care funded by the NHS for those with primary health needs resulting from their condition. This means their care requirements are primarily health-related, rather than social. Crucially, CHC funding covers all costs associated with care, whether provided in someone's own home or in a care home setting. Eligibility for this funding is determined through a comprehensive assessment process, guided by the National Framework for NHS Continuing Healthcare and NHS-funded Nursing Care.
Age UK's report reveals that despite clear national guidelines, there is widespread inconsistency in how these eligibility criteria are applied across different Integrated Care Boards (ICBs). This disparity, coupled with reported confusion among some healthcare professionals and families about the CHC process, means many individuals are being incorrectly assessed as ineligible. The charity argues that this system, designed to support those with complex health needs, is failing to deliver for a significant proportion of older people.
The consequences for families can be severe. When CHC funding is refused, care costs often fall directly onto relatives and loved ones. According to NHS sources, care home fees in the UK average around £1,000-£1,500 per week, with nursing care frequently exceeding this. For those with chronic conditions requiring extensive support, these costs can quickly deplete life savings and assets, causing immense financial strain and emotional distress.
The charity is calling for a review of how the National Framework is implemented in practice to ensure that the policy's intent is upheld. They advocate for improved training for assessors, clearer communication with families, and more transparent pathways for appeals. Without these changes, Age UK warns that the number of older people struggling to access appropriate funding for their care will continue to rise, exacerbating existing pressures on individuals and the wider social care system.