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NHS-Funded Nursing Care (FNC)
When the NHS Contributes to Nursing Home Fees
If someone lives in a nursing home but does not qualify for NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC), they may still be entitled to NHS-Funded Nursing Care (FNC). FNC is a weekly payment made by the NHS directly to the nursing home to cover the cost of registered nursing care. It is not means-tested. It does not depend on savings or property.
Many families are unaware of FNC entitlement - or whether the correct rate has been applied.
We provide independent advice on eligibility, assessment process and interaction with CHC decisions.
What Is NHS-Funded Nursing Care?
Who Is Eligible?
FNC applies where a person:
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Lives in a nursing home
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Requires services from a registered nurse
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Has been assessed as not eligible for full CHC
Eligibility follows a CHC assessment process.
What Does FNC Cover?
FNC covers the nursing element of care provided by registered nurses. It does not cover accommodation, personal care or other residential costs.
The payment is made directly to the nursing home.
FNC Is Not Means-Tested
FNC is funded by the NHS. Savings, capital and property are not relevant.
It can apply whether a person is self-funding or receiving local authority support.
How FNC Relates to CHC
FNC is closely linked to the NHS Continuing Healthcare process. A CHC assessment must usually take place before FNC is awarded.
FNC Follows a CHC Assessment
Where CHC eligibility is not met, but nursing needs remain, FNC may be awarded.
Different Levels of Funding
CHC covers all assessed care needs. FNC only covers the nursing component.
Understanding the distinction is important when reviewing decisions.
Reviewing CHC Before Accepting FNC
If CHC was declined, it may be appropriate to review whether the decision was correct before accepting FNC as the final outcome.
Rate Changes and Reviews
FNC rates are nationally set and periodically reviewed. Ongoing eligibility may also be reassessed.
When FNC Decisions Raise Concerns
Common issues include:
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No CHC assessment completed before FNC award
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CHC refusal without proper DST analysis
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FNC awarded where full CHC may have been appropriate
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Confusion about how FNC affects care home fees
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Lack of clarity about review processes
Where FNC follows a CHC refusal, independent review can clarify whether the primary health need test was properly applied.
Awarded FNC After a CHC Refusal?
We provide:
✔ Review of CHC decision letters
✔ Analysis of Decision Support Tool scoring
✔ Advice on FNC eligibility
✔ Support through CHC appeals
✔ Structured funding clarity
Understand whether FNC is correct - or whether full NHS funding should apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. CHC covers all care costs. FNC only covers the nursing element within a nursing home.
No. FNC is funded by the NHS and does not depend on income or assets.
FNC is usually considered as part of the CHC assessment process.
In some cases, if eligibility existed but was not properly assessed, retrospective review may be possible.
Yes. A CHC refusal can be challenged even if FNC has been granted.