|
 |
Direct Payments Explained
This can be achieved by accessing Direct Payments, which are championed by the Government, and have been designed to give service users the highest level of control, choice and flexibility around how their care needs are delivered.
Under the Somerset Direct Payments Scheme, many adults and disabled children over the age of 16 can choose to receive cash payments in lieu of the services that their care manager would otherwise provide.
Choosing to access these payments in place of social care services means that people have greater choice and control over their lives, and are able to make their own decisions regarding their care. Service users can therefore determine how their care is delivered, by whom and at what times. Direct Payments can also allow service users to change their care arrangements should they ever become dissatisfied with the quality of services they receive.
Accessing Direct Payments results in people engaging an accredited Care Agency such as Carewatch.
New service users wishing to consider joining the Somerset Direct Payments Scheme will first be required to meet with Somerset County Council to check that they qualify. They must then be willing to go on the scheme and be able to manage it in line with County Council requirements. This is often an area where a family member or friend chooses to help and stay actively involved in the care arrangements.
|
|
|
