Direct payments

Direct payments are an alternative way to arrange social work services to help you or your child live independently.

If we decide that you need a community care or children's service we can give you money so that you can arrange and buy the services yourself, this is called direct payments.

Direct payments can give you more control and choice over the decisions that affect your life.   For example, many people need help to get out of bed in the morning.   You may find that the home help employed by the local authority cannot come at the time you want.   If you get direct payments you can arrange for someone to come at whatever time you decide. 

Someone who receives direct payments has the choice of either purchasing the services from an agency, by employing one or more personal assistants or a combination of both.

Assessment

A social work assessment is necessary to establish what you need, your eligibility and the amount of direct payment required.  

The needs assessment process will be the same regardless of whether the person being assessed is likely to receive services or direct payments. 

If you are assessed as needing a service your social worker, occupational therapist or social work assistant can provide advice and information about the scheme.

Direct Payments provide Social Work with an alternative way to meet a person's assessed need for service.