Self-directed support (SDS)

 

Option 4 is a combination of the other three options and lets you choose how much control you want over your support. You can manage some parts of your support yourself while we arrange the rest. It is a flexible option that blends the features of options 1, 2 and 3. Many people choose this when they want to use a Direct Payment for part of their support but prefer us to handle other parts.

How Option 4 works

After your assessment, you and your lead worker agree what support will help you.
You then choose:

• which parts you want to manage yourself
• which parts you want us to arrange for you

If you choose to manage any part through a Direct Payment, for example, you will handle the budget for that part of your support. We will arrange and manage the rest.

You can take on as much or as little responsibility, and you can change this over time if your needs or preferences change.

Who can choose Option 4

Option 4 is available to anyone who qualifies for social care support, including:

• children and young people
• adults
• older adults
• unpaid carers who are eligible for support
• people acting on someone else's behalf (such as people with Guardianship Orders giving them legal powers)

Exceptions

You cannot use a Direct Payment under Option 4 if:

• we believe it would be unsafe for you to manage your budget
• you need long‑term residential or nursing care
• you previously used option one and it had to stop for a specific reason

Your lead worker will explain what is possible in your situation.

Getting help with Option 4

South Lanarkshire Council commission GCIL to provide support in relation to all the SDS options, and they can help you understand Option Four and decide which parts you want to manage.