PERSONAL HEALTH BUDGETS
Guidance for families & carers
A personal health budget can bring flexibility and control, but it can also feel daunting, especially when you are already managing a lot as a family or carer.
This page explains what to expect, what evidence is usually required, and how ILBP can help if you need a managed or third party account to handle the finances.
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What a PHB means for you day to day
A PHB is built around a care and support plan. The plan explains what the budget can be used for and what outcomes it should deliver. Depending on how the PHB is managed, you may be involved in organising support, paying providers, and keeping records.
Choice and control
The budget should reflect what matters to the person and allow flexibility within agreed boundaries.
Practical responsibilities
You may need to approve invoices, keep receipts, and help confirm that spending matches the plan.
Regular reviews
The NHS team will review the plan and budget to ensure it remains appropriate and safe.
What evidence do you usually need to keep?
Evidence requirements vary by area, but most PHB arrangements expect a clear record showing how money has been used in line with the care plan.
Invoices from care providers, agencies or therapists.
Timesheets for personal assistants (where applicable).
Receipts for agreed one off purchases (for example, equipment).
Notes or confirmations that spending links back to the plan outcomes.
Tip
The simplest approach is to keep everything in one place: invoices, receipts, and notes. A managed account can take much of this admin off your plate.
Common worries (and how we help)
Families often worry about “getting it wrong”, falling behind on paperwork, or not knowing what is allowed. ILBP helps create structure and clarity.
Explaining how the plan translates into spend categories.
Helping payments run on time so care is not disrupted.
Providing clear summaries you can share at review.
Supporting changes when needs or providers change.
When a managed account can be the best option
A managed or third party account is often chosen when families want the benefits of a PHB without the heavy admin burden.
When there are multiple providers or a complex package.
When a carer is already under pressure and needs support.
When a clear audit trail is essential for reassurance.
When payments need to be consistent and well managed.
At a glance checklist
Keep your care plan and agreed outcomes to hand.
Store invoices, receipts and timesheets in one place.
Ask early if you’re unsure whether a spend is permitted.
Plan ahead for reviews. Don’t leave it to the last minute.
Case studies
Examples of how personal health budgets, supported by managed accounts, can improve stability and outcomes.
No published case studies in this category yet.