What Is NHS Continuing Healthcare? A Complete Guide to CHC Funding

NHS Continuing Healthcare, usually shortened to CHC or CHC funding, is a package of care that is paid for entirely by the NHS. Not partly. Not after a means test. Entirely.

If a person qualifies, the NHS funds their care in full — whether they are living at home, in a care home, or in a nursing home. The person's savings, income, or property are irrelevant. CHC is not means-tested. It is a health entitlement.

CHC is designed for adults whose main need for care arises from a health condition — rather than a social or personal care need. In practice, this often means people with:

•        Advanced dementia or cognitive impairment

•        A progressive neurological condition such as Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, or motor neurone disease

•        Complex needs following a stroke

•        Terminal illness (including cancer) with significant symptom management needs

•        A combination of physical and cognitive conditions that create complex, unpredictable, or intense care needs

These are common examples not an exhaustive list. Eligibility is decided on the basis of needs, not diagnosis.