Examples of how Direct Payments have been used and their experiences
Here are some examples of how direct payments have been used and what some people have said about them
From a parent of a DP recipient
When Richard began to receive his support through direct payments his life improved dramatically. Due to his autism he lacked social skills, making socialising difficult and preventing him from making friends. As a young man he was embarrassed to be ‘tagging along’ with his parents to social events. He was a lonely and unhappy young man.
Once the direct payments were in place he was able to employ two Personal Assistants his own age. They accompany him to social events and encourage him to mix with others and form friendships. One Personal Assistant luckily shared his passion for horror films so they are able to visit the cinema on a regular basis. He is also able to talk to them about issues he would find difficult to discuss with his parents.
He is much happier now he has a social life and a small group of friends.
From a Personal Assistant
I am a parent of two disabled children and for the past 12 years I have been employed directly by Tom as his Personal Assistant. Tom has autism and I support him to do what he likes doing including going out into the community and visiting the seaside. I love working for Tom and he now feels like part of my family!
Working as Personal Assistant suits me as I have part-time flexible hours which fit around my own family responsibilities. I have learnt a lot about autism which has been helpful as my son has also been diagnosed with it.