Direct Payments
Direct Payments were first introduced by the Government in the 1970’s ,for a select number of individuals. Since 2005 the scheme has been opened up and now all individuals can receive funding for care and support services. This is instead of a local Social Services arranging community care on your behalf.
What this means for you is that now you have the freedom and control to choose your own service provider.
The types of service that you can obtain using your direct payments include:
- Opportunities for short breaks
- Assistance with tasks of daily living
- Social activities / leisure activities
- Meal provision
- Assistance with travel
If you would like more advice on how to obtain direct payments, you can contact the direct payments department at your local social services, or if you have an existing social worker they will be able to give you more information. Alternatively contact your local Allied Healthcare branch.
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. This means that people that know you well could manage the direct payment for you.