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Self-directed support is a new way of helping people to have more choice and control over the type of social care services they receive.  It aims to make the right support available to enhance people’s well-being.

Self-directed support is being introduced right across the country.  In Sheffield, new social care applications made after 1^st April 2010 will be considered under self-directed support.

Self-directed support will be based on an assessment of each person’s social care needs, such as personal care, eating and drinking, being part of the community and being a parent or carer.  The assessment will record the shared views of both the person and their care co-ordinator.  When it is done it will go to a panel who will use it to work out an amount of money, known as an indicative amount.  The person will then draw up a support plan which will describe who they are, what they want their life to be like, what support they need to make this a reality and how they will use their indicative amount to pay for this support.  There will be help available for people at each stage of the process, from their care co-ordinator, or a support planner.

People’s support plans will need to be agreed with their care co-ordinator to make sure it meets their needs and that any risks are managed.  It will then go back to the panel for approval.  The plan will then be reviewed regularly to make sure that it continues to meet identified needs.

Under self-directed support people will no longer be limited to existing social care services.  They will be able to choose from a wide range of services most suited to promote their recovery.

Direct payments

Under self-directed support, people will be able to choose to receive funding to purchase the services they need rather than receive the services that are currently available.  This funding is known as a direct payment.  Direct payments have been available for social care service users for several years.

People who receive direct payments have a responsibility to manage them and to be accountable for the money.  There are different ways of managing the money.  People can either manage it themselves, or ask another person or organisation to manage it on their behalf.  Care co-ordinators will be able to provide people with information about direct payments and help them decide how to manage the money.

Self-directed support can be a good way of helping people to lead more fulfilling, more independent lives.  For further information about self-directed support in Sheffield ask your care co-ordinator or visit Sheffield City Council’s website.