Back to all news
New Survey Aims to Improve the Experience of Self-Funders in Care
A new national survey has been launched by the Department of Health and Social Care, in partnership with Think Local Act Personal, to better understand the experiences of people who arrange and pay for their own care and support—often referred to as self-funders.
This is an important opportunity for the VCSE sector across East Riding and beyond to help shape future improvements in care provision by amplifying the voices of those with lived experience.
Why This Matters
Many individuals and families find themselves navigating the care system independently, without local authority funding or support. This can often be complex, overwhelming, and difficult to navigate.
The survey aims to:
- Capture real experiences of finding and arranging care
- Identify gaps in support, information, and accessibility
- Highlight where improvements are needed
- Help shape a more person-centred care system
At its core, this work aligns with the shared vision of ensuring people have choice and control over their care and support—a key principle championed by Think Local Act Personal.
Who Should Take Part?
The survey is open to:
- Individuals who fund their own care
- People who have arranged care for a family member or friend
- Anyone who has experience searching for self-funded care options
- It takes around 10 minutes to complete and is open until Friday 27 March 2026.
How the VCSE Sector Can Help
Organisations across the VCSE sector play a vital role in connecting with communities and supporting individuals through the care journey.
You can support this initiative by:
- Sharing the survey with your networks, service users, and communities
- Encouraging participation from those with lived experience
- Raising awareness of the challenges faced by self-funders
- Helping ensure underrepresented voices are heard
Your reach and trusted relationships are key to ensuring this survey reflects a wide range of experiences.
Why Your Voice Matters
Insights gathered from this survey will directly inform future policy and improvements in the care system. By contributing, individuals can help create a system that is:
- Easier to navigate
- More transparent
- Better tailored to individual needs
For the VCSE sector, this is a chance to advocate for the communities you support and influence meaningful change at a national level.
Take Part and Share
If you or someone you support has experience with self-funded care, please consider taking part and sharing the survey widely across your networks.
