New support for West Sussex families to plan for their future care
New guidance from West Sussex Council covers care options, costs and advice on staying independent for longer.
Last updated 17th Sep 2026
People nearing retirement and families supporting older relatives in West Sussex are being urged to plan ahead for future care.
The county council's launched new guidance on care options, costs and how to stay independent at home for longer.
It comes as care home fees in the South East average around £1,450 a week (around £69,000 a year).
The central part of this support is the latest annual West Sussex Care Guide. The guide provides comprehensive and trusted details on local home care, day services, and residential care, alongside essential information to help people plan for future costs.
The council has also put together a new Planning for Your Future webpage. Designed to help you plan for your own future, it has vital information on care options, paying for care and staying independent. There is also a downloadable step-by-step booklet to help with planning.
Councillor Richard Bates, Cabinet Member for Adults Services, said:
"Thinking about your future care can feel overwhelming but ignoring it is like setting off on a long journey without a map. Planning early gives you a map, puts you in the driving seat, and helps you towards securing the care you want.
"I encourage everyone, especially those nearing retirement or supporting older relatives, to use this free support today. Please visit the webpage, download the guide, or pick one up from your local library to find out more.
Crucially, this early planning does not just help families—it is vital for the council too. By helping residents make informed choices early, the council can better manage the intense demand for social care support and ensure services remain reliable and sustainable for everyone in the long term.”
Cllr Bates added: "If I had just one thing to say to a family, I would tell them that talking to someone you trust about the future today changes everything. It turns a looming worry into a manageable plan. For the council, when residents plan ahead, it helps us keep our entire care system steady and sustainable so we can always be there for those who need us most."