The direct approach: disabled people's experience of direct payments; summary of key findings and key recommendations

Author:
SCOPE
Publisher:
SCOPE
Publication year:
2003
Pagination:
8p.
Place of publication:
London

Instead of receiving support services directly from their local authority, disabled people can opt to receive the equivalent amount in cash. With cash in lieu of services, disabled people can buy in and tailor their own support package to suit their needs. Local authorities have been able to offer direct payments to people aged between 18 and 65 since 1997. In 2000 the Carers’ and Disabled Children’s Act made direct payments available to 16 and 17 year olds, carers and people with parental responsibility for disabled children. And finally, in April 2003 it was made compulsory for local authorities to offer direct payments to all individuals who are entitled to social services and meet the eligibility criteria for direct payments. Research since the inception of the Act has highlighted the huge difference direct payments have made in enhancing independent living in terms of giving choice and control to disabled people and facilitating social inclusion. Yet disabled people also express concerns that some local policies and practices remain as barriers to the opportunities offered by direct payments.

Subject terms:
independence, local authorities, needs, physical disabilities, social welfare law, carers, direct payments, grandparents;

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