Support costs
Support is usually funded by the local authority (and sometimes the NHS) following an assessment of needs, or through a personal budget or direct payment. Some people pay privately.
Housing costs
Rent and service charges are usually paid through the tenancy — for example through Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit, depending on circumstances.
Eligibility
Eligibility depends on individual circumstances and decisions by the relevant local authority or NHS body. Our funding guide explains the main routes in plain English.
Last reviewed 8 October 2026 · Reviewed by Alton Fuller