Self Directed Support (adults and older people)

SDS Option 2 - individual budget

Choice

We have a list of providers but we will not choose a provider for you or endorse any particular provider. You can find information and inspection reports for each provider on the Care Inspectorate website. If you are considering a provider that is not in this list you should discuss this with your allocated worker.

Care at Home providers

  • BluCare Ltd
  • Bluebird Care (East & Midlothian)
  • Cogent Healthcare Ltd
  • Curam Health Solutions Ltd
  • Hillview Healthcare Limited
  • Home Instead Senior Care
  • Kincare Health Solutions Ltd
  • Armour of Light
  • Visiting Angel
  • Wilta Health Solutions Ltd

Things to check:

  • Can they deliver care in your area?
  • Can they meet the outcomes agreed in your support plan?
  • Can they deliver care when you want it?
  • Are they flexible?
  • What are their Care Inspectorate grades?
  • Do their values and approach align with yours? 

Managing Money

We hold and manage the budget and pay your provider.

We will not pay any additional costs if they charge more than the standard rate so you may need to ‘top up’ payments. 

Care Planning

We develop overall support plans to meet agreed outcomes but we will not oversee daily care tasks or staff scheduling.

You must oversee your daily care and staff scheduling and deal with disputes and issues.

Any changes to your support plan or provider must go through council processes. If the provider stops offering services (e.g., staffing or funding issues), you may need to find a new provider. 

Quality

We will ensure providers meet minimum quality and safety standards and intervene if care falls below minimum standards.

You must take action if you are unhappy with the care you receive.

Three-Way Agreement

We will prepare a three-way agreement between you, the care provider, and the council. We will not employ individual carers directly for you (including self-employed carers).

Any changes to your support must be agreed by the council and may take time.

You must review and sign the three-way agreement to confirm you understand your obligations under the agreement.

How to Raise a Concern Under SDS Option 2

Step 1: Talk to Your Provider First

If you have a concern — such as missed visits, poor communication, or changes in care start by speaking directly to your care provider. Many issues can be resolved quickly through open discussion.

Step 2: Keep a Record         

Take a note of what happened, when it happened, and who was involved.

Step 3: Contact Midlothian Council

If the issue is not resolved or you feel uncomfortable raising it with the provider, contact us. We can help investigate or mediate.

Step 4: Follow-Up and Resolution

We can speak to your care provider, review your support plan and help you change providers if needed

We will keep you informed and work with you to find a solution that meets  your needs.

Making a complaint

Raise a complaint online or call 0131 561 5444.

If you need help making a complaint, you can ask a family member, friend, or independent advocate to support you.

You can find more information about advocacy at mygov.scot or contacting Scottish Independent Advocacy Alliance on 0131 510 9410.

If you remain concerned about the standard of care provided by a registered service or you  are concerned about raising a complaint directly with the service, you can contact the Care inspectorate.

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