What is a Direct Payment?

A direct payment is money paid directly to a person eligible for community care services.

It is a flexible way for people to pay for and manage their care and support needs.

You can receive a direct payment for all of, or part of your support package.

You can use the money to:

	Employ a personal assistant to come to your home to assist you and/or contract with an agency.
	You can also purchase services from a Local Authority.
	Pay for social and recreational activities instead of going to a day centre or an adult training centre.
	Arrange a short break/respite.

Direct Payments do not affect your benefits. However, please remember that Direct Payments can only be used to meet your assessed needs.

In short, Direct Payments allow you to take more responsibility for the decisions that effect your life, giving you more choice and control.