Direct Payments

What is a Direct Payment?

A Direct Payment is where we give you the money to meet the cost of the care services which you have been assessed for. You can then buy your own assessed care and support services instead of the Council buying them for you. Instead of the Council arranging care services for you, you can choose the kind of support and services that meet your needs.

You can even choose to have some of the services you need provided by RMBC and use a Direct Payment to pay for others, allowing you to make the most of your life by giving you flexibility, choice and control.

What can I use a Direct Payment for?

You must use your Direct Payment to pay for help to meet your assessed needs.

These may include:

§ The appointment of a personal assistant to support and help you with every day living skills

§ An agreement with a care agency to help you with personal care

§ Buying a piece of equipment

§ Support to access local community activities e.g. leisure, social and educational activities

§ Help with caring e.g. respite care and taking a break from caring

What responsibilities would I have as a Direct Payment user?

You must spend the money you receive from your Direct Payment on services to meet the needs identified through your care assessment. You will also need to keep a record of how you have spent the money and be willing to allow us to check these records from time to-time.

If you choose to employ your own carer using your Direct Payment you will have to follow good employer practice. We will offer you support and advice in all aspects of your responsibilities.

AS77b V1.1

Revised 12/03/2018