Borders Direct Payment Agency
What is a direct payment?
A direct payment is money paid by the Council directly to someone assessed as needing community care services. This money can then be used to purchase care services.
Direct payments give you more choice and control.
You decide how, when, and who provides your care.
Who can receive direct payments?
People with disabilities aged 16+.
Parents of a child with disabilities.
People with disabilities who have parental responsibility.
People with disabilities aged 16+ to purchase housing support services.
Attorneys and guardians, with the relevant powers on behalf of people with disabilities who are unable to give consent.
People over 65 who need care and attention arising out of infirmity or age.
Direct payments can be used to:
Employ a carer/personal assistant.
Purchase services from an independent agency or the Council.
Purchase housing support services.
Purchase short breaks or respite care.
Purchase equipment and adaptations (within agreed limits).
Please Note.....
Direct payments can only be used to purchase services stated in your care plan. The Council will explain how the money can be spent.
Direct payments can only be used for services arranged by the Council and not for services directly provided by the NHS.
You will not be able to use a direct payment to purchase services from a spouse, wherever they live, nor close relatives if they live in the same household.
Direct payments do not affect Social Security benefits and are not taxable.
The Council charging policy applies whether or not you use direct payments.
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A support agency for people using Direct Payments and Independent Living Funds