How you can use Direct Payments

You can use Direct Payments to pay for care and support that we have agreed with you in your Support Plan or Child’s Plan. This money helps you meet your personal outcomes, such as living more independently, accessing education or taking part in your community. You must only spend it on things we have approved. We review your plan regularly to make sure it still meets your needs and to agree any changes.

What you can spend it on

You can use your Direct Payment for support that helps you achieve your agreed outcomes, including:

• Employing a personal assistant
• Buying care or respite from a provider or another council
• Support to work, volunteer or study
• Activities, services or items we have approved in your plan
• Equipment that meets your needs (if it cannot be provided by the NHS or occupational therapy)

What you cannot spend it on

You must not use your Direct Payment for:

• Anything not agreed in your plan
• Illegal or unsafe activities
• Gambling or financial investments
• Items or services that the NHS or occupational therapy should provide
• Everyday living costs such as food, bills, rent, clothing or transport
• Insurance, bank charges, home improvements or repairs
• Holidays or personal entertainment
• Paying off debts
•  Any costs incurred above our agreed rates, whether by personal assistants or providers (you must pay these from your own personal monies)
• Client Contributions for services including respite (must be paid from your own personal monies)
• Permanent residential care

You also cannot use the payment to:

• Pay a welfare or financial guardian or someone with power of attorney
• Employ a close relative unless we have agreed this
• Give gifts, rewards or cash payments to carers or others
• Pay for support that is already available in your community

Reviews and changes

Your needs may change over time. We will review your plan with you and agree any updates, including how you use your Direct Payment.

Get help or ask a question

If you are unsure about spending, contact your social worker or care team before making a purchase.