HSE Funded Home Support
The Health Service Executive provides home support through the Home Support Service, previously known as the Home Care Package Scheme.
This service is designed for people aged 65 and over who need support to remain living at home or to return home after a hospital stay. In some cases, it may also be available to younger people who require support, such as those with early-onset dementia or a disability.
HSE Disability Services
For people under 65 living with a physical, intellectual, sensory, or neurological disability, home support is generally arranged through the HSE’s Disability Services. This support may include help with:
Personal care (e.g. washing, dressing)
Household tasks
Social or community participation
Respite support for family carers
To access these services, you or someone on your behalf (e.g. a family member, GP, or public health nurse) can contact your local HSE Disability Manager or Primary Care Team to request an assessment.
You can learn more about disability services here.
Who Provides the Care?
Home support can be delivered by the HSE directly or through approved external providers, such as Comfort Keepers.
Once your application is approved, the HSE will let you know how many hours of care or what level of funding you’ll receive each week. At that point, the HSE will contact care providers to begin arranging your support.
You can also choose your preferred provider through what’s known as the Consumer Directed Home Support (CDHS) option. This gives you more control over who provides your care. If you would like Comfort Keepers to deliver your support, you can request this during the application process.
Why Choose Your Own Provider?
Choosing your own provider has a few benefits. For example, you may want to add extra hours of support privately to top up what the HSE funds. By selecting your provider, you can keep the same care team—regardless of how your care is paid for.
After your application, a Care Needs Assessment will be carried out by a healthcare professional to determine the type and level of support you need.
If you are not satisfied with the outcome of your assessment, you have 20 days to request a review. This will be carried out by someone not involved in the original decision and may result in changes to the care plan offered.
How to Apply for HSE-Funded Home Support
You can apply by:
Contacting your local Home Support Office, or
Downloading the application form and information booklet
If you wish to be considered for Consumer Directed Home Support (CDHS), make sure to tick the relevant box on the form. If you need help completing the form, a family member, doctor, or public health nurse can assist you. In that case, be sure to complete and sign the Declaration and Consent section (Part 1 of the form).
If you are currently in hospital, speak to the person managing your discharge—they can help you apply and submit the form on your behalf.