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What happens when someone with dementia can't afford care — the legal protections most families don't know exist

People with dementia who have little or no money are entitled to means-tested support from their local council in England. Anyone with assets below around 14,250 pounds will have their care fully funded by the council. Between 14,250 pounds and 23,250 pounds, a contribution is expected on a sliding scale. The council is legally required to arrange appropriate care regardless of whether the person can pay. If the person qualifies for NHS Continuing Healthcare, all costs are covered by the NHS with no means test applied. Nobody should be left without care because of a lack of funds.