Tel: 020 7530 6481
Fax: 020 7530 6479
Email:info@discnwl.org.uk
What are Direct Payments?
Direct Payments can be offered by Camden Social Services instead of a direct service and are most popularly used as a way for you to purchase your own care.
They allow you as a disabled person, to have the choice over who you employ, what hours you want them to work and what your priorities are. Direct Payments allow you to have control and make your own decisions rather than having others make them for you. For many, they can offer a real improvement in quality of life.
What can they be used for?
Direct Payments can be used for any community care services you have been assessed as needing, for example:
· Personal and domestic care
· Transport or some types of equipment
· Also, Camden are currently in discussion about new ways to use Direct Payments
Who can have a Direct Payment?
Anyone over the age of 16 who has been assessed by Camden Social Services as needing a service and who:
· Has a physical, sensory or learning disability
· Has HIV or AIDS
· Is a mental health service user
· Is an older person eligible for services
· Or is a registered carer
How does it work?
Camden pays an agreed monthly amount into a dedicated bank account held and controlled by you. You then use this money to purchase your own care rather than having Camden arrange it for you. You can do this by either employing somebody privately or employing an agency.
What are my responsibilities?
As a Direct Payment service user you have certain responsibilities to fulfil such as:
· Only use the money for authorised services
· You must not make cash payments.
· Keep complete records of all payments, invoices, bank statements etc
· Complete quarterly returns for Social Services detailing your outgoings.
And if you are employing somebody privately:
· Keep to employment laws and regulations
· Manage your staff and pay their wages
All this may sound daunting, but it is not nearly as complicated as it may seem! Furthermore, help and support are available from DISC all the way.
What does DISC do?
· We are at hand, 5 days a week between 9.30am – 5.30pm for advice, information and ongoing support.
· We are available to assist with all aspects of the process from the initial recruitment of your employee, to assisting with quarterly returns.
· We also offer an outreach service to those who require more in depth support
(Please note that if you are over 65, Age Concern Camden will provide you with the above services.)
How do I get a Direct Payment?
· If you do not already have a care package in place, contact Social Services to arrange for a care assessment.
· Contact your care manager and let them know you are interested in Direct Payments. They will refer you to DISC Direct Payment Support Service to get the ball rolling.
Useful contacts
· Social Services Duty Manager:
Tel: 020 7974 6666
Textphone/Minicom: 020 7974 6866
Fax: 020 7974 6704
· Age Concern Camden
Tel: 020 7837 3777
Fax: 020 7278 1904