Arranging care in Leicester
Leicester City Council is the unitary authority for the city of Leicester in the East Midlands, covering the whole city from the central wards through to communities such as Belgrave, Highfields, Aylestone, Braunstone, Evington, Knighton and Beaumont Leys. As a unitary authority, Leicester City Council is the single point of contact for adult social care across the city, so families do not need to navigate a separate county council.
If you are starting to arrange care for yourself or a relative, the first step is to contact the Adult Social Care team at Leicester City Council and request a needs assessment. This assessment is free, regardless of income or savings, and looks at what someone can manage day to day and where support would help. If the assessment identifies eligible needs, the council will then carry out a financial assessment to work out how much, if anything, you contribute towards the cost of care. National capital thresholds apply, and the council will explain how these are used in your circumstances.
The local care market
Leicester has a large and varied care market, with 285 CQC registered care homes serving the city. That gives families a genuine choice when comparing residential care homes and nursing homes, whether you are looking for a home close to family in Clarendon Park, near the hospitals in Knighton, or within one of the newer developments on the edge of the city.
Funding and typical costs
Depending on your financial assessment, care in Leicester may be funded by the council, part funded through a personal budget, paid for privately, or supported by NHS Continuing Healthcare where health needs are the primary reason for care. Direct payments are also available so families can arrange support flexibly.
- Home care in Leicester typically costs around £20 to £25 per hour, so weekly fees vary with the hours you need.
- Residential care homes are commonly in the region of £900 to £1,150 per week.
- Nursing homes usually sit between £1,050 and £1,300 per week, reflecting the additional clinical support.
Leicester City Council can talk you through these options and signpost you to trusted local providers before you commit.
