Direct payments are a way of letting you have more choice and control over your care.
Instead of the council providing your care services, the money is given to you so you can buy the care you need and choose the kind of support that is right for you.
You can choose to have a direct payment if you have had an assessment from adult social care and have eligible care and support needs.
People who get direct payments are usually people who are:
- Over 65 years old
- Disabled between the ages of 16 and 65, including those with mental health issues, HIV, or a learning disability
- Carers aged 16 and over
- Parents or guardians of disabled children
It is your choice to have direct payments. You can get your care services from the Council instead. You can also have part of your care arranged by the Council and get direct payments for other parts of your care.
Support and advice is available in all aspects of your responsibilities if you receive direct payments.
Watch the video on what personal budgets and direct payments are
