01
Who decides eligibility
The local authority or other funding body decides whether a person is eligible, what outcomes are funded, the amount, any personal contribution and how the money must be managed.
Advice And Resources
Direct payments: more choice, with clear responsibilities
A direct payment can help an eligible person arrange their own support. It does not remove the need for assessment, safe care planning, a realistic budget and a clear service agreement.
In practice
People receiving direct payments, families, representatives and brokers
Talk to us
0115 681 251402
Choosing a provider
Check the provider’s registration, current services, area, assessment process, rates, availability, staff preparation, complaints and communication. The provider should explain whether the proposed package fits the budget.
03
Agreeing the support
The care assessment and service agreement should identify visit times, tasks, staff numbers, charges, invoicing, cancellation, reviews, changes and notice. Avoid relying on informal verbal assumptions.
04
Managing the budget
Keep invoices and records required by the funding body. Know whether a separate account, payroll support or financial monitoring applies. MoreLoved Care cannot provide independent financial or legal advice.
05
Personal contributions and extra care
A person may sometimes pay privately for additional support, subject to the funding rules. The public and private parts should be clearly separated in the agreement and invoices.
06
Changes in need
Tell the social worker or funding body and provider when the package no longer reflects the person’s needs. Do not reduce essential care or use funds outside the approved purpose without advice.
07
Complaints and rights
A direct-payment user has the same rights to respectful care, safeguarding, privacy, accessible information and complaints as any other client.
Answers
Frequently asked questions.
Is a direct payment the same as a benefit?+
No. It is funding for assessed care or support outcomes and comes with conditions set by the funding body.
Do I become MoreLoved Care’s employer?+
No, where MoreLoved Care provides the service as an agency under a contract. Employing a personal assistant is a different arrangement.
Can the provider manage the direct-payment account?+
MoreLoved Care provides invoices for its service. Wider account management depends on the approved arrangement and is not assumed.
What if the budget runs out?+
Contact the funding body and provider promptly. Essential care should not be altered without reassessment and agreement.
Can a family member manage the direct payment?+
Potentially, where the funding body and legal authority allow it.
Next step