Top-up guidance

This information is to guide everyone involved in the process of ensuring a smooth transfer of people considering moving from their homes or hospital into accommodation where care is provided. The general principle governing this guidance is to ensure that there is clarity on the information we provide as they consider the options available to them.

Purpose of Top-up information

This guidance outlines the ‘top-up’ arrangements for a person receiving care and support in one of the following settings:

  • Registered residential or nursing care home 
  • Supported living accommodation
  • Shared lives scheme

If a person wishes to choose a placement costing more than the amount that has been specified in their personal budget for the provision of accommodation of that type, then the council can seek a top-up payment.

For the purposes of this guidance a personal budget is the cost to the council of meeting those needs which it is required, or has decided, to meet and identified these needs in the persons care and support plan.