🏡 How to Find Care Providers That Accept Local Authority Rates
- sadieravening
- Aug 5
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 21
A Self-Employed Carer’s Guide to Navigating Council-Funded Care Packages
“You’ve got an agreed care package. The funding's in place. But no provider will take it — sound familiar?”
It’s a moment that should bring relief. The package has been approved, the funding agreed, and the family finally has the support they’ve been fighting for. Yet, no care provider will accept it. No one can be found. The council is “still looking.” Weeks pass. Calls bounce back and forth. Meanwhile, someone vulnerable is left without the care they need.
As a self-employed carer and advocate, I’ve faced this scenario too many times. Whether on behalf of a client or supporting other carers, it’s not only frustrating; it’s destabilizing. This gap in our system demands greater visibility. This blog is my contribution to that conversation: a practical guide for carers navigating this difficult terrain, with a dose of solidarity built in.
Understanding the Commissioning Breakdown
Here’s the crux of the issue: local authorities commission care through internal teams, usually brokerage or commissioning departments. They match approved packages with registered providers. However, if none will accept the council’s standard rate due to staffing shortages, financial constraints, or other limitations, the package sits in limbo.
The funding exists. The need exists. But delivery doesn’t. This breakdown creates an impossible situation for families, carers, and support workers trying to bridge the gap.
Contacting Providers Directly
If you're in a position to help locate provision yourself, here’s a message you can use to reach out professionally:
"Hello, I’m trying to secure care provision for an agreed care package funded by [Council Name]. Are you currently accepting packages at the council's standard rate, and do you have capacity to take on new clients in a specific area?"
You can adjust this depending on whether you're sending an email, calling, or messaging via a site like carehome.co.uk. It helps to include:
Type of care (e.g., visiting care, dementia support, overnight assistance)
Frequency or number of hours per week
Area-specific details or postcode
A polite offer to share care plans or liaise with the council directly
Useful Directories & Listings
Here are a few go-to resources to identify local providers:
Carehome.co.uk — includes reviews, service types, and contact details
You can filter by service type, location, and specialisms (e.g., learning disability, physical disability, elderly care).
What to Say to the Council When You’re Stuck
If the council hasn’t been able to source a provider, request to speak directly with someone in commissioning or brokerage. You might say:
“We’ve now waited for provision to be sourced, and the client remains without care. Could you share a list of providers who’ve recently accepted packages at your current rate?”
You can also:
Ask whether direct payments could be used to secure care sooner.
Clarify whether the rate or package might need adjusting to attract provision.
Express concern — professionally but firmly — about risks due to delay.
Solidarity & Solutions
This isn’t just your problem — it’s a systemic one. Sharing strategies, sample messages, and trusted directories helps chip away at the isolation carers often feel when the system fails them.
If you’re a self-employed carer navigating this issue, you’re not alone. You’re doing the council’s job while still holding the client’s hand. That deserves recognition. Let’s keep raising this conversation until the commissioning gap isn’t ours to fill!
Empowering Clients Through Care
Empowering clients is at the heart of what we do. When we navigate these challenges together, we create a more supportive environment for everyone involved. Remember, the goal is to ensure that individuals receive the care they need, allowing them to live independently and comfortably in their own homes.
Conclusion
Navigating council-funded care packages can be daunting. However, by understanding the system, reaching out to providers, and advocating for clients, we can make a difference. Let’s continue to support one another and push for a system that works for everyone.
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