Self-directed support (SDS)

Option 1 gives you a budget to pay for your support so you can choose how it is spent. It offers the most control and flexibility of all the Self‑directed Support options. You decide who provides your support and how it is arranged. This can help you shape a life that works for you and meets the outcomes you have agreed with your lead worker.

Most people who are eligible for social care support can choose option one.

Option 1 is the SDS option with most flexibility and control however brings with it most responsibility.

How Option 1 works

We provide you with an agreed budget and you choose how to use it to meet your needs in line with agreed outcomes. You can:

• employ a personal assistant
• buy support from an independent care provider
• pay for other services
• buy items that help you achieve your outcomes

Who can use Option 1

Children and young people, adults, older adults, carers and people acting on someone’s behalf (such as people with Guardianship Orders giving them legal powers) can all choose Option 1.

You may not be able to use Option 1 if:

• you have used it before, and it had to stop
• using it would place you at risk
• you need long‑term residential care

What you need to do

Using Option 1 brings extra responsibilities. You will need to:

• sign a Direct Payment Agreement once you have agreed your support plan with your lead worker
• use your budget in the agreed way
• keep records of how you spend it
• follow employment law if you hire a personal assistant
• take part in financial reviews - one at 12 weeks, then a minimum of annually thereafter

Getting help with Option 1

GCIL South Lanarkshire can help you with all SDS options. If you choose Option 1, they can support you to:

• advertise for a personal assistant
• understand your responsibilities as an employer

You can also read the PA employer handbook for more guidance.