Direct Payment Guide
In this guide, we’ll cover all you need to know about Direct Payments. We’ll explain what they are and how they work. We’ll outline the pros and cons. And we will explain how to get a Direct Payment. By the end, you should know whether a Direct Payment is the right option for you.
What is a Direct Payment?
A Direct Payment is money from Cornwall Council to help you pay for your care and support. Instead of the Council arranging your care, you get the money directly. This gives you choice and control over your support. You choose the support you want and how you want it, helping you to live your life, your way.
The money from Cornwall Council may not cover all your support costs. You might need to make a personal contribution towards the costs. This is the first payment for your care. Cornwall Council will add funds to help you pay for all the care costs in your Support Plan.
Who can get a Direct Payment?
Anyone with eligible social care needs. A social work professional will assess your needs. They will calculate a Personal Budget.
Who is a Direct Payment suitable for?
A Direct Payment may suit someone who:
- Wants full control over their care and support.
- Is comfortable managing finances and paperwork. Or has someone to do this on their behalf (referred to as a suitable person).
How do Direct Payments work?
Direct Payments give you more control over your care and support. Here’s how it works:
Payment
The council gives you money to cover the costs of your care and support. This money goes into a dedicated bank account. You will use this money to pay for your support. However, you may need to contribute some of your own money to cover the costs of your support. This is known as a personal contribution.
Flexibility and control
You can spend your Direct Payment on anything that helps you meet your needs. Your needs will be outlined in your Care and Support Plan. You decide the best way to meet your needs and can spend the money in the ways you choose.
Skip to see examples of what you can spend your Direct Payment on >>
Record keeping
You must keep records to show how the money has been used. This includes keeping all receipts and invoices.
Personal responsibility
You are responsible for:
- Keeping your spending in line with your Care and Support Plan.
- Keeping accurate records.
Want someone to manage your Direct Payment?
Speak to our PAMAS team about your options, today!
Contact PAMAS
What can I spend my Direct Payment on?
You can spend your money on anything that meets the needs in your Care and Support plan.
Examples
You can use your Direct Payment in any way that is legal and meets the goals in your support plan. You have the freedom to choose – and you’re encouraged to be creative. You can hire a personal assistant, join a class, or find other support that suits you. The decision is up to you.
Here are some examples of what you might be able to use your Direct Payment for:
Personal Assistant
You might want to employ someone to assist you. PAs can help with things like:
• Personal care
•Household chores
• Getting out and about
Equipment or adaptations
You can buy equipment or make changes to your home to make daily life easier. This can include:
• Buying mobility or safty equipment
• Installing ramps
Activities
You may pay for activities that will help you stay active and connected. This could be:
• Classes
• Social activities
• Community groups
What can't I spend my Direct Payment on?
There are a few limitations on what you can spend your Direct Payment on. You cannot spend your Direct Payment on any of the following:
NHS services
Long-term residential care
Anything outside of your Care and Support Plan
Anything illegal
Pros and cons of Direct Payments
Before you choose a Direct Payment, you should weigh up the pros and cons. This will help you decide if it’s the right option for you. And if it gives you the right balance of control and responsibility.
Pros
Full Control
You have full control over who provides your support. You can use your budget for things that fit your lifestyle and make you happy.
Choose your own Personal Assistant
You get to choose the PA that's right for you.
Greater flexibility
You choose how and when your support is delivered. This gives you more say over your routine.
Cons
Lots of personal responsibility
A Direct Payment comes with responsibility. You need to make sure your spending aligns with your support plan. Plus, if you employ a PA, you have employer responsibilities. However, you can use our payroll and managed accounts to help with this.
I think Direct Payments are right for me, what are the next steps?
To get a Direct Payment, you need to speak with Cornwall Council. They will assess your needs and finances to see if you qualify for care and support. If you do qualify, you can choose to get this as a Direct Payment.
Start the process by...
Requesting a Needs Assessment
To request a needs assessment, follow the link below and complete the form.
Checking your financial eligibility
Find out if you’re likely to meet the financial criteria. Use the Council’s eligibility checker.
Explore other budget options...
Individual Service Fund Guide
You stay in control of your support decisions without the admin! You choose an organization to manage your budget and the support you get.
Home Care Guide
Use your budget to access domiciliary care. A professional will help with everyday tasks in your own home. This could be anything from cooking to personal care.
Support Planning and Brokerage
Work with a specialist to create a support plan that’s personal to you. Then sit back while someone arranges the right services and/or support for you.
