You can access payments to cover your own social care support services instead of receiving them directly from the council. These are called direct payments.
Direct payments are local council payments for people who have been assessed as needing help from social care, and who would like to arrange and pay for their own care and support services instead of receiving them directly from the council.
You must be able to give your consent to receiving direct payments and be able to manage them. The money is paid directly to you so that you can choose the services which best meet your needs.
For example, you could choose to employ your own care worker (usually called a Personal Assistant), or buy special equipment to help you live independently. Or you might organise respite care if you are caring for a disabled child. Direct payments can’t be used to buy services from the council.
A personal budget is more flexible than direct payments, and can be used to pay for services from both the council and other providers.
Where to get advice
Your social worker or care manager will discuss the direct payments option with you when you have your care needs assessed.
Read the Frequently Asked Questions for further information.
You can also contact ASIST who are the Leeds direct payments support service for advice on arranging direct payments. ASIST can help with practical advice and support with things like recruiting a Personal Assistant, including:
- writing a job description
- placing an advertisement
- questions to ask at interviews
- taking up references
- how to check for a criminal record
- drawing up an employment contract
- paying your Personal Assistant
The support service can also help you manage your direct payments and associated responsibilities. For example you will be required keep records of everything you pay for and also follow employment regulations.