How you can control your own care, giving you more choice and flexibility.
What are direct payments?
They are regular monthly payments from Adult Social Care to enable you to employ your own personal assistants for your care, instead of receiving help arranged by Adult Social Care.
Who can get direct payments?
Most people who are assessed as needing community care services arranged by Adult Social Care 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
Can I get support to do all this?
The Case-coordinator will assist you in making all necessary arrangements.
How will direct payments be affected if I get independent living fund?
This does not affect your right to Direct Payments. Both Independent Living Fund money and Direct Payments can be used to purchase your care.
How are the direct payments made?
Direct Payments are made by BACS into a separate bank account set up by you at a bank of your choice. They are paid monthly in advance.
Will there be a review?
After your first payment, there will be a review at six weeks, then at six monthly intervals. The review will be carried out by the Case-Coordinator. You can ask for a review at any time if your situation changes. You can end Direct Payments by giving four
weeks notice in writing. You may then opt to receive services again arranged by Adult Social Care.
Are the any charges?
There is no charge involved in opting for the Direct Payment Scheme, but you will continue to pay the usual client contributions. Your entitlement to most benefits will not be affected.
How can I get direct payments?
You can contact Adult Social Care on 01720 424 000. An informal visit can be arranged to give you more information on Direct Payments.
All of the above information is available on the Council leaflet: Direct payments Opens in a new window
