How you can control your own care, giving you more choice and flexibility.
What are direct payments?
They are regular monthly payments from Social Services to enable you to employ your own personal assistants for your care, instead of receiving help arranged by Social Services.
Who can get direct payments?
Most people who are assessed as needing community care services arranged by the Social Services Department are entitled to request Direct Payments, including people with physical disabilities, learning disabilities, older people and carers and parents of a
child with a disability.
What can direct payments be used for?
Direct payments are used to employ personal assistants, or agencies, to help you with personal and practical tasks. The aim is to assist you to lead an independent life in your own home.
Who can I employ?
You can employ anyone you choose, except a partner or close relative.
How much responsibility and control will I have?
- Recruiting and employing your own personal assistants
- Organising and managing your own daily living arrangements
- Paying your personal assistants
- Operating Tax and National Insurance if necessary
- Keeping records for The Council of the Isles of Scilly Direct Payments Scheme
