What Happens If You Run Out of Money in a Care Home in Coventry?

An Honest Guide for Coventry Self-Funding Families.

You’ve found the right care home. It feels safe. Your loved one is happy. The staff are warm and familiar. But then, often quietly, another worry comes up.

What happens if we run out of money in the care home?

At Allesley Hall, this is one of the most common concerns we hear from families who are self-funding care. It’s a valid worry. Care can be expensive, and the system is not always easy to understand. Many families fear that their loved one could be asked to move once the money runs out.

The good news is: there is a clear process, there is support available, and you are not alone. This blog explains what happens when you run out of money in a care home and how to plan ahead with confidence.

1. What Does “Self-Funding” Actually Mean?

If you’re paying the full cost of care yourself, you’re classed as a self-funder. This typically applies if your capital is over £23,250, based on national rules for care home funding in England.

This capital includes:

• Savings

• Investments

• Property value (in some situations)

  
  

Once your assets drop below that threshold, you may be eligible for support from the local authority. Before that happens, there are assessments you’ll need to go through.

2. What’s the Assessment Process When Funds Run Low?

There are two parts:

• A Care Needs Assessment, to confirm your loved one still requires care

• A Financial Assessment, to check your current capital and income

  
  

If Coventry council agrees to help fund care, they will pay up to a set amount. This is usually lower than what most private care homes charge.

3. What If Your Care Home Costs More Than the Council Will Pay?

If the cost of your current care home is higher than what the council agrees to pay, there are three options:

• The care home may accept the council rate

• A family member may agree to pay the difference (a third-party top-up)

• In rare cases, the person may need to move to a home that matches the council’s rate

  
  

At Allesley Hall, we aim to avoid disruption whenever possible. We’ve been established in Coventry for over 30 years and have built trusted relationships with Coventry City Council. They know the quality of care we provide. In many cases, this relationship helps ensure a smoother funding transition.

4. Will You Have to Leave the Care Home If You Run Out of Money?

Not necessarily. Many residents at Allesley Hall continue living here after switching from private to council-funded care. As long as funding can be arranged (either through a top-up or agreement with the council), moving is often avoidable.

We don’t make assumptions. We take time to understand each situation and work closely with families and the local authority to find a solution that keeps your loved one settled and supported.

5. How Can You Plan Ahead If You’re Self-Funding Care?

Here are five steps to help you stay in control:

• Track your capital as it approaches £30,000

• Speak to the local authority before funds run out

• Ask your care home manager early about funding changes

• Get financial advice from a care funding expert

• Be open with your family about top-up options or responsibilities in advance

We encourage families to start these conversations before care begins. It gives everyone space to plan without pressure.

6. Why Families Trust Allesley Hall in Coventry?

We know this blog is about finances, but really, it’s about peace of mind. At Allesley Hall, we’re proud to have supported Coventry families for over three decades. We are rated 9.9 on carehome.co.uk, and we believe our reputation comes from consistency, honesty, and compassion.

We work closely with Coventry Council and neighbouring authorities. We understand the funding system and we’re happy to guide you through it.

Want Help Navigating Care Home Funding?

Whether you're already paying privately or just starting to look for a care home, we’re happy to have a conversation. No pressure. Just honest advice and a cup of tea if you fancy it.

📞 Call us on 024 7775 3002 or book a visit to speak with our team

You don’t need all the answers today. But you deserve clarity, and that’s what we aim to give.

Allesley Hall 🧡