A Direct Payment is a payment that can be made to people who are eligible to receive community care services from Social Services, and who would prefer to arrange their own services.

Direct Payments makes it possible for you to buy the services that you have been assessed as needing, in a way that gives you greater choice and control.

You can decide how your needs will be met, by whom and at a time that suits you. You will have a wider choie of services as well as real control over your life - you will be managing your own care package.

Direct payments help give people the opportunity to live as independently as possible.

If you would like further information please click on the link on the right to download the Direct Payments leaflet or contact your Social Worker or Social Work Team.

If you are worried that you might not be able to manage Direct Payments on your own you can get help. An independent Living Adviser from the Rowan Organisation can offer you advice and support with this, and assist you with recruitment and managing staff.  For further information visit the website www.therowan.org