King’s Fund report puts self-funders’ care information needs in focus

People paying for their own adult social care can face a difficult search for both support and information, according to research published by The King’s Fund on 10 November 2026. Out of sight and out of pocket compares England’s approach with systems in countries including Australia, Japan and the Netherlands.

The report argues for a wider system of publicly funded support, with contributions linked to people’s circumstances. It highlights the difficulty of navigating care privately and the financial pressure on families. Its estimate of around 220,000 self-funders draws on Office for National Statistics figures for 2022–23, covering care homes and home care. Read The King’s Fund’s report of 10 November 2026.

What a provider can make clearer now

A prospective resident or family may first encounter a service through its website, a telephone call or a printed information pack. Managers can check whether those routes give a consistent explanation of what the service offers, how an assessment works and whom to contact with questions.

For care homes, the Competition and Markets Authority’s consumer guidance describes the importance of providing information early. It covers fees, services, terms and the final offer following an assessment. The guidance says people should receive the standard terms upfront and have sufficient time to consider the final offer. Read the CMA’s guide for residents and families.

Follow an enquiry through the service

Ask a colleague unfamiliar with admissions to try the information a family would receive. Can they find what is included in the price, identify questions that remain and work out the next step? Compare the website with the current information pack and the explanation given by staff handling enquiries.

Record recurring questions and use them to improve the material. Give one person responsibility for updating all versions when an offer or process changes. A clear enquiry route also helps staff recognise when someone needs to speak to the council, an independent adviser or another organisation about their individual circumstances.

Featured image is an AI-generated illustration of a fictional setting.