Direct Payments are a different way of delivering certain existing social services responsibilities. Direct Payments are cash payments that are given directly to the Service User to purchase the social care services they have been identified as needing through an assessment.

Direct Payments can be used to pay an agency or service of choice or to directly employ staff to provide identified support. Direct Payments can also be used for transport. A Direct Payment can be used for all or part of someone's identified care needs. Direct Payments do not affect any benefits the person may already be receiving or may apply for in the future.

Who can have a Direct Payment?

• People with physical or sensory impairment
• Older People
• Learning Disabled
• Mental Health Difficulties
• Someone with parental responsibility for a disabled child
• Carers
• HIV & Aids
• Drug & Alcohol Dependent
• 16 + 17 Yr Olds
• You must live in Sandwell.

What does the Direct Payment Support Service offer?

The Direct Payments Support Service offers advice, support and information to anyone who is interested in or already receiving a Direct Payment in Sandwell. We offer training on how to receive and run your Direct Payment and can help you organise your recruitment and paperwork if you want us too. We also offer informal information sessions on a monthly basis and provide assistance with travel expenses for these if necessary

Who can use the service?

Anyone can approach the service for basic advice and information about direct payments.
However, for ongoing support for Direct Payments, you must live in Sandwell and have had a community care assessment.

How can the service be contacted?

Fridays 9.00am till 5.00pm. By letter, telephone, fax, email or minicom.

Can I have a Home Visit?

We can arrange to see you at home if you can't get to us.

I found out about Direct Payments through the Wheelchair Service also based at the Independent Living Centre. I have found it to be a very convenient arrangement with freedom of choice about who I can employ.
The bookkeeping side is done by my wife and she finds it straightforward. I know that there is always good aftercare help and advice from the Direct Payments Support Service.

Mr Kenneth Paine