Charges vary from house to house. You should contact your local Abbeyfield society to find out how much it would cost to live there. All costs include food and utility bills. If affordability is an issue, you may be entitled to claim Income Support or Housing Benefit. Your amount of savings can affect your entitlement to benefit. Your local Abbeyfield society, Citizen’s Advice Bureau or local Benefits Agency office can help you understand your best options. Charges in care homes are higher than those in supported sheltered housing to cover the costs of specialist staff and additional care provision. If you need help with paying fees you will have to apply to your local Social Services department.