Direct Payments are cash payments from Social Services to help you pay for services that the child has been assessed as needing.  Parents and carers can decide how the money needs of the child will be met, by whom, and at a time that best suits the need of the child.

Direct Payments can be used to buy a whole range of services, such as:

• Personal Support;
• Respite Care or Short Breaks;
• Equipment;
• Access to social activities;
• Help with your responsibilities as a carer.

The team can give you advice and support on how to mage the direct payments and will carry out regular reviews to make sure direct payments are meeting the child’s needs.

The team also work with an independent direct payments support service.  The support service has direct payments advisors to help and support with all aspects of direct payment.