Direct Payments FAQs
Who can get direct payments? Most people that have been assessed as needing a social care service can have direct payments. This includes carers and parents of disabled children. Direct Payments are provided by most local authorities, which can be accessed by contacting your local social services department.
Will direct payments cost me anything? As with any Local Authority social care service, you will need to have a financial assessment before getting direct payments. This looks at the money you have coming in (including savings and capital) and your weekly outgoings - including any costs related to disability or illness. Depending on the outcome of your assessment, you might have to contribute towards the cost of your care. If you do have to contribute, and you get direct payments, your contribution is taken before the direct payment is paid to you.
How will I get my direct payment? You need to set up a bank account specifically for your direct payment. We can help you to do this. Direct payments are usually paid every four weeks in advance - depending on what they are being used for. For example, the payment arrangement might differ if you are getting a direct payment for a one-off service - such as respite care.
What can I spend the money on? You can be flexible about how you spend your direct payment - as long as what you buy meets your assessed social care needs. When you are assessed for services, you can discuss with your assessor how you think direct payments could best be used to meet your needs. A direct payment contract will be drawn up, which will include how you intend to spend your money. Typical examples include employing someone to provide support in a way that suits you; or going to an activity during the day.
Can people with learning disabilities benefit from direct payments? If you have a learning disability, then direct payments could work very well for you. A direct payment would give you more choice about services. For example; if you have been assessed as needing a day opportunity, you could decide on the type of activity you think would be best for you. If your disability means that you find it hard to communicate, to manage money, or to employ people, then a Direct Payment Trust Fund could be set up.