Introduction

At Beehive Care & Training Group Ltd, we understand the importance of providing comprehensive care solutions that allow individuals to remain in their own homes. One of the financial options available to support this is the Deferred Payment Agreement (DPA). This blog will explore how DPAs work, their benefits, and how they can be applied to home care (domiciliary care) services.

What is a Deferred Payment Agreement (DPA)?

A Deferred Payment Agreement (DPA) is an arrangement with the local authority that allows individuals to defer the costs of their care until their property is sold or from their estate. This agreement provides flexibility and ensures individuals are not forced to sell their home during their lifetime to pay for care [1].

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a DPA with Devon County Council, the following criteria must be met [1][2]:

• Care Needs: The individual must have care needs assessed as being best met in a residential or nursing care home, or through supported living accommodation.
• Financial Assessment: The individual must not have savings and investments over the upper capital limit, excluding the value of their home.
• Property Ownership: The individual must own their home, and there must be sufficient equity in the property to cover the deferred payments.
• Security: The property must be used as security for the deferred payments.

Application Process

1. Initial Assessment: During the financial assessment, the possibility of a DPA will be discussed.
2. Application Form: The Client Financial Services Team will assist with the application form.
3. Approval and Agreement: If approved, the agreement will be finalised and in place within 12 weeks of moving into care [1][2].

Financial Considerations

• Interest and Charges: Interest and administration charges may apply to the deferred amount [1][2].
• Repayment Terms: Detailed information on costs and repayment terms will be provided by the local authority [1][2].

Benefits of DPAs

• Flexibility: Allows individuals to remain in their own home while receiving necessary care [1][2].
• Financial Relief: Provides time to sell the property at a suitable price without financial pressure [1][2].

Recent Statistics on DPAs

According to the latest data for 2023-24:

• New DPAs Agreed: There were 3,205 new DPAs agreed during the year, with a total value of £80.4 million [2].
• DPAs Recovered: £90.3 million was fully recovered from DPAs ending in 2023-24, relating to 2,295 DPAs [2].
• Outstanding DPAs: As of 31 March 2024, there were 6,815 outstanding DPAs with a total value of £343.3 million [2].

UK-Specific Examples

1. Bath and North East Somerset Council: This council offers DPAs to individuals who have been assessed as needing permanent residential care and who own property that takes their capital assets above the upper capital limit. The council ensures that individuals are not forced to sell their home during their lifetime to pay for care [3].
2. Devon County Council: Similar to Bath and North East Somerset, Devon County Council provides DPAs to eligible individuals, allowing them to defer care costs until their property is sold. This helps individuals remain in their homes while receiving necessary care [1].

Home Care (Domiciliary Care) Services

DPAs can also be applied to home care services, which include [3][4]:

• Personal Care: Assistance with daily activities such as washing, dressing, and grooming.
• Medication Management: Help with taking prescribed medications.
• Meal Preparation: Preparing meals and drinks to ensure proper nutrition.
• Domestic Tasks: Help with household chores like cleaning, laundry, and shopping.
• Companionship: Providing social interaction and emotional support.
• Specialist Care: Services tailored to specific conditions such as dementia or stroke recovery.

Support Services

Organisations like Age UK and the Alzheimer's Society offer advice and support regarding care options and financial matters. Local authorities can provide information on additional support services available.

Contact Information

• Devon County Council Adult Social Care
  • Phone: 0345 155 1007
  • Address: County Hall, Topsham Road, Exeter, EX2 4QD
  • Website: Devon County Council Adult Social Care
• Age UK
  • Phone: 0800 169 80 80 (General enquiries)
  • Advice Line: 0800 678 1602 (8:00 am - 7:00 pm, 365 days a year)
  • Address: 7th Floor, One America Square, 17 Crosswall, London, EC3N 2LB
  • Website: Age UK Contact Us
• Alzheimer's Society
  • Dementia Support Line: 0333 150 3456
  • General Enquiries: 0330 333 0804
  • Address: Alzheimer's Society, Suite 2, 1st Floor East Wing, Plumer House, Tailyour Road, Plymouth, PL6 5FS
  • Website: Alzheimer's Society Contact Us

Conclusion

Deferred Payment Agreements (DPAs) offer a practical solution for individuals needing home care but facing financial constraints due to delays in property sales. By understanding how DPAs work and the support services available, families can make informed decisions to ensure their loved ones receive the care they need while remaining in their own homes.

Call to Action

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Beehive Care & Training Group Ltd. Our team is here to help you navigate the options and find the best care solutions for your loved ones.
References

[1] Deferred Payment Agreements - NHS England Digital

[2] Deferred Payment Agreements, 2023-24 - NHS England Digital

[3] 10. Deferred Payment Agreements (DPAs) - Bath and North East Somerset

[4] Deferred Prosecution Agreements - The Crown Prosecution Service