What are direct payments?

Direct payments are a recent government policy initiative, based on an idea that originated with disabled people.

Cash payments are made directly to people needing support or care services in lieu of social service provision. They are designed to give people more control over the services they receive. Many people are eligible for direct payments, including people with learning disabilities. Direct payments are very different from what is still the usual way of doing things, when money for learning disabilities services is given to organisations that provide homes and support.

A Department of Health information booklet aimed at people with learning disabilities puts it this way: “A direct payment is money social services can give you. It is a different way of getting the support you need. You use it to buy the support you want.”

Read more about Direct Payments

For further information about Direct Payments contact:

Sarah Maguire