Direct Payments

What are direct payments?

Direct payments are for people who receive adult social care. Instead of providing you with a Council managed care service, Adult Services can give you the money. You then use this money to buy the services which Adult Services have assessed you as needing.

Under Direct Payments, you can decide who provides your care, at the place and time that suits you best. For example, instead of attending a day centre, you can have support in your own home.

A direct payment is not a benefit and does not affect your benefits.

Direct payments give you more choice and more control over the care you receive. We can offer you help and advice about choosing your care provider. You can also find lists of care providers by visiting HAricare, our directory of services for Adults.

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Who can have direct payments?

Many people who qualify for care from Adult Services can receive a direct payment. You may be able to get a direct payment if you have been assessed by Adult Services as needing community care services. This includes:

  • people with disabilities, sensory impairment, learning disabilities, HIV/AIDS, mental health problems, and older people
  • young disabled adults aged 16-17 years
  • parents of children under 16 years

Clients who are currently receiving services and new clients can both get direct payments, subject to agreement with the relevant team.

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How can I find out more?

If you are interested in receiving a direct payment but are not sure if you qualify contact us

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Putting you in control

This is our leaflet that explains direct payments in more detail. To download a copy, see the attached files section below.

Attached Files