One of the first questions families ask when considering care is: how much does homecare cost?
The answer depends on several factors, including the level of support required, the length and frequency of visits, the time of day and whether any specialist care is needed.
For families in Hertfordshire, understanding how homecare is priced can make it easier to compare providers, plan ahead and choose an arrangement that meets both care needs and budget requirements.
This guide explains the main factors that can influence the cost of homecare, the questions to ask when requesting a quotation and the financial support that may be available.
Most visiting homecare services are charged according to the length of each care visit.
A provider may offer visits lasting:
• 30 minutes
• 45 minutes
• One hour
• Several hours
• Overnight
• Longer blocks of support
Some providers have a minimum visit length, while others may offer shorter calls where these are suitable for the individual.
The overall weekly or monthly cost will therefore depend on how many visits are required and how long each one lasts.
Visiting homecare
From £32 per hour
Live-in care
From £1,500 per week
Minimum visiting-care appointment
30 minutes
Every care package is based on an individual assessment, and we provide a clear quotation before care begins.
Several factors may influence the amount someone pays.
Someone who needs one visit each week will naturally pay less than a person who requires support several times a day.
Homecare can be arranged flexibly, ranging from occasional companionship or household assistance to multiple daily visits providing personal care, medication support and meal preparation.
Longer visits usually cost more overall, although the hourly rate may remain the same.
The appropriate visit length should be based on what needs to be completed safely and without rushing the person receiving care.
Some providers charge different rates for:
• Evenings
• Weekends
• Bank holidays
• Overnight support
Always ask whether the quoted price applies at all times or whether enhanced rates are charged during particular periods.
Standard visiting care may include support with:
• Washing and dressing
• Preparing meals
• Medication prompts
• Mobility
• Shopping
• Light household tasks
• Companionship
Specialist or more complex support may require carers with additional skills, training or experience. This can affect the price.
Some people need support from two carers for particular tasks, such as certain transfers or mobility procedures.
Where two carers are required, the cost is likely to reflect the additional staffing involved.
Families should ask whether the provider applies any additional charges, such as:
• Travel or mileage costs
• Assessment fees
• Care-plan fees
• Short-notice cancellation charges
• Charges for accompanying someone to an appointment
A reputable homecare provider should explain all likely costs before care begins.
The examples below show how different arrangements can affect the total cost.
An individual may receive one two-hour visit each week for companionship, shopping or help around the home.
Example calculation:
2 hours × £32 = £64 per week
Someone may receive a one-hour visit every morning to help with washing, dressing, medication and breakfast.
Example calculation:
7 hours × £32 = £224 per week
A person with greater needs may receive morning, lunchtime, evening and bedtime visits.
The cost will depend on the length of each visit, whether two carers are required and whether any enhanced rates apply.
These examples show why an individual homecare assessment is important. Two people may both receive care at home but require very different levels of support.
There is no single answer because the comparison depends on the amount of care needed.
For someone who requires a small number of visits each week or each day, homecare may cost less than moving permanently into a residential care home.
It also allows the person to remain in their own home, surrounded by familiar possessions, routines and neighbours.
As care needs increase, particularly where continuous supervision or extensive overnight support is required, the cost difference may become smaller. Families may then wish to compare visiting homecare, live-in care and residential care.
Cost is important, but it should not be considered in isolation. The person’s wishes, independence, safety, wellbeing and quality of life should all form part of the decision.
Some people may be entitled to financial support from Hertfordshire County Council.
The usual first step is a care-needs assessment. This looks at the help the person requires in everyday life.
If eligible care needs are identified, the council may then carry out a financial assessment, sometimes called a means test, to decide whether the person must pay the full cost or whether the council will contribute towards the costs of care required.
In England, people with savings above the upper capital threshold (currently £23,250 in England) will usually be expected to fund their own social care. Those below the threshold may qualify for some council support, although income and other financial circumstances will also be considered.
Importantly, when care is being provided in a person’s own home, the value of that home is not normally included in the financial assessment.
The rules can change, so families should check the latest information directly with Hertfordshire County Council before making financial decisions.
Where the council agrees to fund some or all of a person’s eligible care, it may offer a direct payment.
This gives the individual greater control over arranging their support rather than the council choosing and managing every aspect of it.
Direct payments may sometimes be used to purchase care from a chosen provider, provided the arrangements meet the council’s requirements.
Families considering this option should speak to Hertfordshire County Council to confirm what can be funded and how the payments must be managed.
Some adults with significant and ongoing health needs may qualify for NHS Continuing Healthcare, often shortened to NHS CHC.
NHS Continuing Healthcare is not means-tested. Where someone is assessed as having a primary health need and meets the eligibility criteria, the NHS can arrange and fully fund an appropriate package of care.
This support may be provided in the person’s own home as well as in a care setting.
Eligibility is based on the nature, intensity, complexity and unpredictability of the person’s needs rather than on a particular diagnosis alone.
Families can ask a health or social-care professional whether an NHS Continuing Healthcare assessment may be appropriate.
Depending on age, health and circumstances, an individual may be entitled to benefits that can help meet the cost of care.
These may include:
• Attendance Allowance
• Personal Independence Payment
• Pension Credit
• Carer’s Allowance for an eligible unpaid carer
Some benefits are not means-tested.
Because entitlement depends on individual circumstances, it may be helpful to seek independent benefits advice before assuming that no support is available.
Before choosing a provider, ask for a complete explanation of the pricing structure.
Useful questions include:
• What is the standard hourly rate?
• What is the minimum visit length?
• Are weekends or bank holidays charged differently?
• Is there an assessment or setup fee?
• Are travel costs included?
• What happens if a visit overruns?
• Is there a cancellation charge?
• How often are prices reviewed?
• Will I receive a written quotation?
• What is included within the agreed price?
The cheapest provider is not necessarily the best-value provider. Families should also consider reliability, staff training, continuity of care, communication and how well the service is tailored to the individual.
Care needs can change gradually or unexpectedly.
When comparing costs, it is worth asking how easily a care package can be increased, reduced or altered.
A flexible provider should review the care plan regularly and discuss any proposed changes with the individual and their family.
It is also sensible to understand how the cost might change if additional visits, longer calls, overnight care or two carers become necessary.
At Firstpoint Homecare, we understand that families need clear and honest information about costs before making decisions.
We begin by discussing the individual’s circumstances and completing a personalised assessment. This helps us understand the support required and provide a clear care proposal based on their needs, routines and preferences.
Our team supports individuals across Harpenden, Hertfordshire and the surrounding areas to remain safe, comfortable and independent in their own homes.
If you are considering homecare for yourself or a loved one, contact our team for a no-obligation conversation and an individual quotation.
Prices stated are correct as of August 2026 and may be reviewed from time to time. Funding thresholds and eligibility criteria can also change, so please check the latest guidance before making financial decisions.