West Sussex families urged to plan ahead for future care costs

West Sussex families are being encouraged to plan ahead for future care needs as the county council launches new support aimed at helping people understand their options and potential costs.

West Sussex County Council says many people are unaware that adult social care is not free and that most residents will have to contribute towards the cost of their care.

Care home fees in the South East average around £1,450 a week, or approximately £69,000 a year.

The council says planning ahead can help people make informed decisions about the care they may need, understand how it could be funded and find ways to remain independent in their own homes for longer.

At the centre of the support is the latest West Sussex Care Guide, which provides information about home care, day services and residential care across the county.

It also includes advice designed to help families understand future costs and the choices available if a relative suddenly needs additional support or needs to move into a care home.

A new Planning for Your Future webpage has also been launched, bringing together information on care options, paying for care and maintaining independence.

Residents can also download a step-by-step booklet to help them prepare for future care and support needs.

Councillor Richard Bates, Cabinet Member for Adults Services, said: "Thinking about your future care can feel overwhelming but ignoring it is like setting off on a long journey without a map. Planning early gives you a map, puts you in the driving seat, and helps you towards securing the care you want.

"I encourage everyone, especially those nearing retirement or supporting older relatives, to use this free support today. Please visit the webpage, download the guide, or pick one up from your local library to find out more.

"Crucially, this early planning does not just help families—it is vital for the council too. By helping residents make informed choices early, the council can better manage the intense demand for social care support and ensure services remain reliable and sustainable for everyone in the long term."

Cllr Bates added: "If I had just one thing to say to a family, I would tell them that talking to someone you trust about the future today changes everything. It turns a looming worry into a manageable plan. For the council, when residents plan ahead, it helps us keep our entire care system steady and sustainable so we can always be there for those who need us most."

How to get help from West Sussex County Council:

Resources: Visit www.westsussex.gov.uk/PlanningForYourFuture to access a wealth of practical information designed to make your planning and decisions much easier, including the latest Care Guide and a step-by-step Planning for Your Future workbook.

Printed copies can be requested by emailing publications@westsussex.gov.uk

In Person: Pick up a free printed copy of the latest Care Guide and Planning for Your Future booklet at your local library,

Face-to-Face: Meet members of the Prevention Assessment Team and supporting council teams for personalised advice at monthly library drop-in sessions. Visit the Planning for Your Future webpage for further details.

By Phone: Call the advice helpline on 0330 222 4040 to speak with a trained advisor during office hours.

Get the latest ALERTS for BREAKING NEWS in the SOUTH on your phone by downloading the V2 RADIO APP today! 

V2VOUCHERS.CO.UK is offering half-price deals on a wide range of experiences across the South, from meals out at local restaurants to tickets for some of the region’s biggest events.