UKNeuroGuide
NHS Support Last updated
UKNeuroGuide · Benefit guide

Personal Health Budget – NHS

Official NHS programme designed to provide personalised healthcare funding.

A Personal Health Budget gives eligible individuals NHS funding to arrange their own healthcare support. It allows personalised care tailored to individual needs.

UK-focused Plain English Step-by-step
Read guide How to apply
Quick actions
Jump to “How to apply” What evidence to prepare All benefits
Guidance only. Not legal advice. Rules can change — always check official sources.
On this page

Overview

Personal Health Budgets allow individuals to take control of their healthcare support.
This personalised approach can improve independence and wellbeing.
It allows flexible support tailored to individual needs.
This can be especially valuable for neurodivergent individuals with complex healthcare requirements.

Important
Eligibility rules can be complex and can change. Always check official guidance and get advice if you can.

Who it’s for

  • People with long-term health conditions.
  • Disabled adults with ongoing support needs.
  • People receiving NHS Continuing Healthcare.
  • Neurodivergent individuals with complex support needs.

Eligibility

  • Must be eligible for NHS Continuing Healthcare or similar services.
  • Must have assessed healthcare needs.
  • Must be approved by NHS Integrated Care Board.
Reminder
This page is guidance only — it can’t confirm whether you will be awarded a benefit.

Eligible conditions

Conditions commonly linked to this benefit.

View all conditions
ADHD — UK eligibility guide
Condition

ADHD UK | Symptoms, Diagnosis and Support Guide

Possible eligibility
Autism (Autism Spectrum Condition) — UK eligibility guide
Condition

Autism | Symptoms, Diagnosis and Support Guide

Possible eligibility
Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) — UK eligibility guide
Condition

Developmental Language Disorder DLD UK | Symptoms and Support Guide

Possible eligibility

How it works

  • NHS assesses healthcare needs.
  • A budget is agreed.
  • Funding can be managed by NHS, third party, or directly by you.
  • Support is arranged according to care plan.

How to apply

  • Speak with your GP or healthcare team.
  • Request NHS assessment.
  • Complete assessment process.
  • Agree care plan and budget.
  • Begin using approved support.
Ask a question

Evidence to prepare

  • Medical reports.
  • Care plans.
  • Support needs documentation.
  • Healthcare provider reports.

Assessment tips

  • Explain healthcare needs clearly.
  • Focus on safety and independence.
  • Describe daily support requirements.
Tip
Use real examples from daily life — what happens on difficult days, not only on good days.

Common mistakes

  • Not requesting assessment.
  • Not providing detailed medical evidence.
  • Not explaining healthcare impact.

If you’re refused

  • Request reassessment.
  • Provide additional medical evidence.
  • Request review through NHS complaints process.
Deadlines matter
Challenges and appeals often have strict time limits — get advice as early as possible.

Trusted links