{"id":4154,"date":"2025-05-13T11:05:53","date_gmt":"2025-05-13T11:05:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/?p=4154"},"modified":"2025-06-09T05:53:37","modified_gmt":"2025-06-09T05:53:37","slug":"what-are-the-4-criteria-for-chc-funding","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/what-are-the-4-criteria-for-chc-funding\/","title":{"rendered":"Unlocking CHC Funding: What Are the 4 Criteria for Eligibility?"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_72 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-transparent ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"cursor:pointer\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/what-are-the-4-criteria-for-chc-funding\/#What_Does_CHC_Funding_Mean_and_Why_Is_It_Crucial\" title=\"What Does CHC Funding Mean and Why Is It Crucial?\">What Does CHC Funding Mean and Why Is It Crucial?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/what-are-the-4-criteria-for-chc-funding\/#The_promise_of_free_comprehensive_care\" title=\"The promise of free, comprehensive care\">The promise of free, comprehensive care<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/what-are-the-4-criteria-for-chc-funding\/#How_Does_CHC_Funding_Work_in_Practice\" title=\"How Does CHC Funding Work in Practice?\">How Does CHC Funding Work in Practice?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/what-are-the-4-criteria-for-chc-funding\/#From_referral_to_care_plan\" title=\"From referral to care plan\">From referral to care plan<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/what-are-the-4-criteria-for-chc-funding\/#What_are_the_4_criteria_for_CHC_funding\" title=\"What are the 4 criteria for CHC funding?\">What are the 4 criteria for CHC funding?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/what-are-the-4-criteria-for-chc-funding\/#Your_definitive_eligibility_checklist\" title=\"Your definitive eligibility checklist\">Your definitive eligibility checklist<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/what-are-the-4-criteria-for-chc-funding\/#1_Ordinary_Residence_in_England\" title=\"1. Ordinary Residence in England\">1. Ordinary Residence in England<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/what-are-the-4-criteria-for-chc-funding\/#Residency_demystified\" title=\"Residency demystified\">Residency demystified<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/what-are-the-4-criteria-for-chc-funding\/#2_Primary_Health_Need\" title=\"2. Primary Health Need\">2. Primary Health Need<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/what-are-the-4-criteria-for-chc-funding\/#Why_clinical_needs_must_dominate\" title=\"Why clinical needs must dominate\">Why clinical needs must dominate<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/what-are-the-4-criteria-for-chc-funding\/#3_Decision_Support_Tool_DST_Assessment\" title=\"3. Decision Support Tool (DST) Assessment\">3. Decision Support Tool (DST) Assessment<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/what-are-the-4-criteria-for-chc-funding\/#Decoding_the_multidisciplinary_review\" title=\"Decoding the multidisciplinary review\">Decoding the multidisciplinary review<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/what-are-the-4-criteria-for-chc-funding\/#4_Integrated_Care_Board_ICB_Decision_Your_Rights\" title=\"4. Integrated Care Board (ICB) Decision &amp; Your Rights\">4. Integrated Care Board (ICB) Decision &amp; Your Rights<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/what-are-the-4-criteria-for-chc-funding\/#From_DST_to_final_outcome\" title=\"From DST to final outcome\">From DST to final outcome<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/what-are-the-4-criteria-for-chc-funding\/#At-a-Glance_The_4_Eligibility_Criteria\" title=\"At-a-Glance: The 4 Eligibility Criteria\">At-a-Glance: The 4 Eligibility Criteria<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/what-are-the-4-criteria-for-chc-funding\/#Practical_Implications_for_Care_Providers_and_Small_Businesses\" title=\"Practical Implications for Care Providers and Small Businesses\">Practical Implications for Care Providers and Small Businesses<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/what-are-the-4-criteria-for-chc-funding\/#Leveraging_CHC_for_sustainable_services\" title=\"Leveraging CHC for sustainable services\">Leveraging CHC for sustainable services<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/what-are-the-4-criteria-for-chc-funding\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions_Concise_Two-Line_Answers\" title=\"Frequently Asked Questions (Concise Two-Line Answers)\">Frequently Asked Questions (Concise Two-Line Answers)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Does_CHC_Funding_Mean_and_Why_Is_It_Crucial\"><\/span>What Does CHC Funding Mean and Why Is It Crucial?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_promise_of_free_comprehensive_care\"><\/span><em>The promise of free, comprehensive care<\/em><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) is a non\u2013non-means-tested NHS entitlement providing free, round-the-clock care\u2014nursing, therapy, and personal support\u2014for adults whose primary need stems from a health condition, disability, or accident. Unlike social care, which can incur hefty fees, CHC covers:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Specialist nursing provided through tailored home care services.<\/li>\n<li>Care home placements, both residential and nursing<\/li>\n<li>Hospice or palliative care, when end-of-life support is required<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>By securing CHC, families avoid potentially six-figure bills for private care, while the NHS can reduce costly hospital readmissions\u2014estimated savings of \u00a360,000\u2013\u00a370,000 per patient per year.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Does_CHC_Funding_Work_in_Practice\"><\/span>How Does CHC Funding Work in Practice?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"From_referral_to_care_plan\"><\/span><em>From referral to care plan<\/em><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The CHC journey unfolds through a series of steps, each demanding attention to detail:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Referral:<\/strong> Made by a GP, hospitalteamm or care provider when someone\u2019s needs appear health-driven.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Residency Check:<\/strong> Confirms \u201cordinary residence\u201d in England before clinical assessment.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Checklist Screening:<\/strong> A brief screening tool gauges whether a full assessment is warranted.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Decision Support Tool (DST):<\/strong> A multidisciplinary team scores care needs across 12 domains.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Integrated Care Board (ICB) Decision:<\/strong> Formal approval or refusal within 28 days (or 48 hours for end-of-life fast-track).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Care Package Activation:<\/strong> CHC-funded support begins immediately upon approval.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Keep a calendar of target dates and gather supporting evidence\u2014care notes, incident records and professional reports\u2014to streamline each stage.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_are_the_4_criteria_for_CHC_funding\"><\/span>What are the 4 criteria for CHC funding?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Your_definitive_eligibility_checklist\"><\/span><em>Your definitive eligibility checklist<\/em><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>At the heart of every application lie four sequential criteria. Only by meeting each can fully NHS-funded care be secured:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Ordinary Residence in England<\/li>\n<li>Primary Health Need<\/li>\n<li>Decision Support Tool (DST) Assessment<\/li>\n<li>Integrated Care Board (ICB) Final Decision<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"103\" data-end=\"401\">At the core of every successful CHC application are four sequential gates. You must satisfy each in full before the NHS commits to a Continuing Healthcare package. Below, we deepen the explanation of each criterion, complete with practical examples, common pitfalls, and tips to strengthen your case.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"\" data-start=\"408\" data-end=\"446\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Ordinary_Residence_in_England\"><\/span>1. Ordinary Residence in England<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h3 data-start=\"447\" data-end=\"486\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Residency_demystified\"><\/span><em data-start=\"447\" data-end=\"484\">Residency demystified<\/em><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-4157 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Ordinary-Residence-in-England.jpg\" alt=\"Ordinary Residence in England\" width=\"865\" height=\"493\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Ordinary-Residence-in-England.jpg 865w, https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Ordinary-Residence-in-England-300x171.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Ordinary-Residence-in-England-768x438.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 865px) 100vw, 865px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"488\" data-end=\"596\"><strong data-start=\"488\" data-end=\"506\">What it means:<\/strong> You must habitually live in England, under lawful status, to remain.<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"598\" data-end=\"1294\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"598\" data-end=\"782\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"600\" data-end=\"782\"><strong data-start=\"600\" data-end=\"622\">Habitual Presence:<\/strong> Demonstrate that England is your permanent home\u2014evidence might include a year\u2019s worth of utility bills, council tax statements, or a signed tenancy agreement.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"783\" data-end=\"1068\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"785\" data-end=\"1068\"><strong data-start=\"785\" data-end=\"807\">Settled Intention:<\/strong> Temporary visa holders on short placements (e.g., 6-month work visas) often fall short. If you\u2019ve moved permanently\u2014say, returning from overseas\u2014you\u2019ll need proof of long-term commitments: GP registration, school enrolment for children, or mortgage contracts.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1069\" data-end=\"1294\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1071\" data-end=\"1093\"><strong data-start=\"1071\" data-end=\"1091\">Common Pitfalls:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1096\" data-end=\"1294\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1096\" data-end=\"1187\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1098\" data-end=\"1187\">Relying on a single document (e.g., a bank statement) rather than a portfolio of proof.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1190\" data-end=\"1294\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1192\" data-end=\"1294\">Applying immediately after moving; delay until key registrations (GP, electoral roll) are confirmed.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1296\" data-end=\"1408\"><strong data-start=\"1296\" data-end=\"1304\">Tip:<\/strong> Compile at least three different residency documents spanning three consecutive months to avoid delays.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"\" data-start=\"1415\" data-end=\"1443\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Primary_Health_Need\"><\/span>2. Primary Health Need<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h3 data-start=\"1444\" data-end=\"1494\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_clinical_needs_must_dominate\"><\/span><em data-start=\"1444\" data-end=\"1492\">Why clinical needs must dominate<\/em><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1496\" data-end=\"1631\"><strong data-start=\"1496\" data-end=\"1514\">What it means:<\/strong> Your care package must be driven predominantly by a health condition, rather than social or domestic requirements.<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1633\" data-end=\"2315\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1633\" data-end=\"1824\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1635\" data-end=\"1824\"><strong data-start=\"1635\" data-end=\"1651\">Substantial:<\/strong> You require regular, hands-on clinical interventions, such as wound dressings, syringe-driver medication, or catheter changes, that unqualified carers cannot safely perform.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1825\" data-end=\"1946\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1827\" data-end=\"1946\"><strong data-start=\"1827\" data-end=\"1839\">Ongoing:<\/strong> Needs arise consistently (daily or weekly). Occasional therapy or one-off procedures do not qualify.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1947\" data-end=\"2143\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1949\" data-end=\"2143\"><strong data-start=\"1949\" data-end=\"1961\">Complex:<\/strong> Multiple interdependent issues. For example, a Parkinson\u2019s patient with choking risks, pressure sores, mood disturbances, and mobility challenges. Each domain amplifies the others.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"2144\" data-end=\"2315\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2146\" data-end=\"2315\"><strong data-start=\"2146\" data-end=\"2164\">Unpredictable:<\/strong> Your condition can deteriorate or spike without warning, such as sudden respiratory distress in COPD patients, requiring rapid nurse-led intervention.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2317\" data-end=\"2482\"><strong data-start=\"2317\" data-end=\"2329\">Example:<\/strong> A post-stroke individual who needs daily physiotherapy, speech therapy, nutritional monitoring, and pain management clearly meets all four descriptors.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"\" data-start=\"2489\" data-end=\"2536\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Decision_Support_Tool_DST_Assessment\"><\/span>3. Decision Support Tool (DST) Assessment<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h3 data-start=\"2537\" data-end=\"2592\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Decoding_the_multidisciplinary_review\"><\/span><em data-start=\"2537\" data-end=\"2590\">Decoding the multidisciplinary review<\/em><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-4156 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Decision-Support-Tool-DST.jpg\" alt=\"Decision Support Tool (DST)\" width=\"1255\" height=\"554\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Decision-Support-Tool-DST.jpg 1255w, https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Decision-Support-Tool-DST-300x132.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Decision-Support-Tool-DST-1024x452.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Decision-Support-Tool-DST-768x339.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1255px) 100vw, 1255px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2594\" data-end=\"2687\"><strong data-start=\"2594\" data-end=\"2612\">What it means:<\/strong> A structured, 12-domain scoring process led by a multidisciplinary team.<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"2689\" data-end=\"3315\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"2689\" data-end=\"2820\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2691\" data-end=\"2820\"><strong data-start=\"2691\" data-end=\"2710\">Who\u2019s Involved:<\/strong> Specialist nurses, therapists (physio, occupational, speech), social workers, and medical staff collaborate.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"2821\" data-end=\"2953\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2823\" data-end=\"2953\"><strong data-start=\"2823\" data-end=\"2838\">12 Domains:<\/strong> Mobility, behaviour, cognition, nutrition, continence, skin integrity, breathing, drug administration, and more.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"2954\" data-end=\"3185\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2956\" data-end=\"3041\"><strong data-start=\"2956\" data-end=\"2974\">Scoring Scale:<\/strong> Each domain is rated Low, Moderate, High, Severe, or Exceptional.<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"3044\" data-end=\"3185\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"3044\" data-end=\"3185\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3046\" data-end=\"3185\"><strong data-start=\"3046\" data-end=\"3069\">High to Exceptional<\/strong> in a single domain often signals eligibility; multiple Moderate or a blend of Moderate and High can also qualify.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"3186\" data-end=\"3315\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3188\" data-end=\"3315\"><strong data-start=\"3188\" data-end=\"3216\">Report &amp; Recommendation:<\/strong> The team produces a written DST report with a clear \u201cEligible\u201d or \u201cNot Eligible\u201d recommendation.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3317\" data-end=\"3341\"><strong data-start=\"3317\" data-end=\"3339\">Common Challenges:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"3342\" data-end=\"3511\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"3342\" data-end=\"3420\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3344\" data-end=\"3420\">Incomplete evidence\u2014care staff should maintain daily logs for each domain.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"3421\" data-end=\"3511\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3423\" data-end=\"3511\">Misunderstanding domain definitions\u2014ask the assessor to clarify if a rating seems off.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3513\" data-end=\"3651\"><strong data-start=\"3513\" data-end=\"3521\">Tip:<\/strong> Invite your regular care provider to the DST meeting; their firsthand testimony can tip marginal domains into the \u201cHigh\u201d bracket.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"\" data-start=\"3658\" data-end=\"3717\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Integrated_Care_Board_ICB_Decision_Your_Rights\"><\/span>4. Integrated Care Board (ICB) Decision &amp; Your Rights<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h3 data-start=\"3718\" data-end=\"3761\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"From_DST_to_final_outcome\"><\/span><em data-start=\"3718\" data-end=\"3759\">From DST to final outcome<\/em><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3763\" data-end=\"3864\"><strong data-start=\"3763\" data-end=\"3781\">What it means:<\/strong> The ICB (formerly the CCG) reviews the DST report and issues a binding decision.<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"3866\" data-end=\"4512\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"3866\" data-end=\"3950\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3868\" data-end=\"3950\"><strong data-start=\"3868\" data-end=\"3891\">Standard Timescale:<\/strong> 28 calendar days from DST submission to formal decision.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"3951\" data-end=\"4066\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3953\" data-end=\"4066\"><strong data-start=\"3953\" data-end=\"3978\">Fast-Track Timescale:<\/strong> A 48-hour window is given to those with fast-declining health and limited life expectancy.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"4067\" data-end=\"4512\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"4069\" data-end=\"4084\"><strong data-start=\"4069\" data-end=\"4082\">Outcomes:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"4087\" data-end=\"4512\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"4087\" data-end=\"4175\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"4089\" data-end=\"4175\"><strong data-start=\"4089\" data-end=\"4102\">Approved:<\/strong> CHC package begins immediately, with funding covering agreed services.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"4178\" data-end=\"4512\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"4180\" data-end=\"4232\"><strong data-start=\"4180\" data-end=\"4192\">Refused:<\/strong> You receive written reasons. You can:<\/p>\n<ol data-start=\"4237\" data-end=\"4512\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"4237\" data-end=\"4342\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"4240\" data-end=\"4342\">Request a local review within six months\u2014cite specific DST domains you believe were underrated.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"4347\" data-end=\"4409\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"4350\" data-end=\"4409\">Lodge an NHS complaint if procedural errors occurred.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"4414\" data-end=\"4512\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"4417\" data-end=\"4512\">Escalate to the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman for an independent investigation.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"4514\" data-end=\"4708\"><strong data-start=\"4514\" data-end=\"4532\">Practical Tip:<\/strong> As soon as you receive the ICB decision letter, draft your review grounds\u2014highlighting DST discrepancies\u2014and submit within the six-month window to preserve your appeal rights.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"At-a-Glance_The_4_Eligibility_Criteria\"><\/span>At-a-Glance: The 4 Eligibility Criteria<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<table>\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Criterion<\/th>\n<th>Core Requirement<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>1. Ordinary Residence<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Habitual, lawful, and settled presence in England.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>2. Primary Health Need<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Substantial, ongoing, complex, and unpredictable clinical needs.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>3. DST Assessment<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Multidisciplinary scoring across 12 domains with clear recommendations.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>4. ICB Decision &amp; Rights<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Formal decision in 28 days (fast-track in 48 hours); right to review or appeal.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Practical_Implications_for_Care_Providers_and_Small_Businesses\"><\/span>Practical Implications for Care Providers and Small Businesses<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-4307 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Small-Businesses.jpg\" alt=\"Small Businesses\" width=\"800\" height=\"532\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Small-Businesses.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Small-Businesses-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Small-Businesses-768x511.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Leveraging_CHC_for_sustainable_services\"><\/span><em>Leveraging CHC for sustainable services<\/em><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>For small care providers and nursing homes, CHC funding offers both security and complexity:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Guaranteed Funding:<\/strong> NHS payments reduce financial risk\u2014critical for smaller organisations.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Service Development:<\/strong> Invest in staff training for complex and end-of-life care to align offerings with CHC needs.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Administrative Rigor:<\/strong> Implement case-management software to track DST deadlines, referrals, and appeals.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<blockquote><p><strong>Case Study:<\/strong> A Hampshire care home increased its CHC-funded occupancy from 20% to 50% by appointing a dedicated CHC liaison nurse and partnering with local ICB assessors.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p>By embedding \u201cWhat are the 4 criteria for CHC funding?\u201d within your application planning\u2014and understanding each step from residency to final appeal\u2014you can navigate the NHS system with confidence, secure vital support, and help small care businesses stabilise their funding streams. Share this guide with colleagues, clients, and care partners to ensure no one misses out on CHC funding they\u2019re entitled to.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions_Concise_Two-Line_Answers\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions (Concise Two-Line Answers)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>1. What paperwork do I need before referral?<\/strong><br \/>\nProof of English residence (e.g., utility bill or GP registration) plus recent clinical records (discharge summaries, care plans).<\/p>\n<p><strong>2. Who can refer someone to CHC?<\/strong><br \/>\nAny healthcare professional (GP, hospital team, care home manager) or a family\/legal deputy with valid consent or power of attorney.<\/p>\n<p><strong>3. How fast is the Fast-Track Pathway?<\/strong><br \/>\nDecisions are made within 48 hours for those with rapidly deteriorating conditions, compared to up to 28 days on the standard route.<\/p>\n<p><strong>4. Can my CHC package change over time?<\/strong><br \/>\nYes\u2014request an interim review whenever needs increase or decrease, and a new DST reassessment will adjust your support accordingly.<\/p>\n<p><strong>5. What if my application is refused?<\/strong><br \/>\nFirst, request a local review within six months, then use the ICB\u2019s NHS complaints process, and finally appeal to the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman if needed.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What Does CHC Funding Mean and Why Is It Crucial? The promise of free, comprehensive care NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) is a non\u2013non-means-tested NHS entitlement providing free, round-the-clock care\u2014nursing, therapy, and personal support\u2014for adults whose primary need stems from a health condition, disability, or accident. Unlike social care, which can incur hefty fees, CHC covers:&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":4158,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_lmt_disableupdate":"no","_lmt_disable":"no","_kadence_starter_templates_imported_post":false,"_kad_post_transparent":"default","_kad_post_title":"default","_kad_post_layout":"default","_kad_post_sidebar_id":"","_kad_post_content_style":"default","_kad_post_vertical_padding":"default","_kad_post_feature":"","_kad_post_feature_position":"","_kad_post_header":false,"_kad_post_footer":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[538,539,540,541],"class_list":["post-4154","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-business-news","tag-chc-funding","tag-eligibility-criteria","tag-funding-opportunities","tag-health-care-funding"],"modified_by":"sanmathi","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4154","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4154"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4154\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4308,"href":"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4154\/revisions\/4308"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4158"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4154"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4154"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.smallbusinessblog.co.uk\/business-news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4154"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}