Direct payments

Most people who have been assessed as needing social care support and are eligible to receive these services from the council can receive direct payments.

You could have a direct payment if:

• You are over 16 years old
• You can consent to having a direct payment to arrange your own support - you can nominate someone to receive and manage your direct payments for you, if you wish
• You lack mental capacity but have an authorised person who can receive and manage the direct payment on your behalf.

Examples of people who might be eligible to receive direct payments are:

• people with physical and sensory disabilities
• people with learning disabilities
• people who have mental health needs
• older people who may be frail
• people with long term illness
• people who may be terminally ill.

Everyone’s support needs are considered individually following an assessment of their care needs to see if they are eligible to receive Direct Payments under the care and support planning process.

People who cannot receive a direct payment

By law, some people may not be able to receive a direct payment; for example, if you have a court order against you which is related to drugs or alcohol. The council can give you advice if you think you may not be able to receive a direct payment.