What are direct payments?
Cash payments given to you to arrange your own support, rather than having a service from the council.
You may choose to employ staff yourself, or pay an agency to help you.
Direct payments are not extra income for you to spend as you wish, they are just for your care needs.
You will need to have an assessment by a social worker or care manager.
What is an assessment?
A social worker, or someone from the Health Service will visit and look at your needs. Once we have agreed what help you need, we will write a Care Plan. Financial issues will be looked at and it could be that you will be asked to make a contribution.
Who can get direct payments?
People with disabilities (including learning disabilities, sensory impairments or mental health problems) aged 16 and over
People with parental responsibility for a disabled child
Carers aged 16 and over who provide care for an adult who is eligible to receive care services can receive direct payments for their needs as a carer.
What can the money be used for?
The direct payment can only by used to buy the care you have been assessed as needing and associated costs.
You can choose the best way to provide your support but Bolton Council must be sure your needs are being met.
You cannot buy services from the Council, but you can have some of your services from us and have the money to pay for other organisations to provide the rest of your care.
Will I get help with my direct payments?
There is a Direct Payments Team who offer support, advice and training in all aspects of using Direct Payments.
I think I could use Direct Payments, what do I do next?
If you or the person you care for is over 65, contact the Older People's Helpdesk. if you or the person you care for is under 65 contact the Advice and Assessment Team for Adults or ring the Direct Payment Team telephone (01204) 337075.