Direct Payments are payments made to a disabled person (or a representative of their choosing) into a bank account or prepaid card. These payments are made in advance, usually every four weeks. They enable people to purchase and arrange their own support to meet their needs. The aim of direct payments is to give people more choice, greater flexibility and more control over the support they get.

People can use their direct payments to choose how to have their care provided. Many people choose a Personal Assistant (PA) as a solution to their care needs. Some choose to use a care agency.

Direct Payments can be made to people of all ages. For children and young people under 16, payments are made to an adult who has parental responsibility.

You can receive Direct Payments if:

• You have been assessed as needing social care services to support you with daily living
• You have a disability with social care needs
• You consent to receiving a Direct Payment and either you or your representative can manage the payment

You can only receive a Direct Payment if Sandwell Council has assessed you as needing support to live independently.

During the assessment, they will determine:

• The estimated cost of your required care, which correlates with your Direct Payment.
• Whether you require financial assistance.

To enquire about applying for Direct Payments, please contact Sandwell council on:

Telephone: 0121 569 2266
Email: sandwell_enquiry@sandwell.gov.uk

1.Direct Payment to a Bank Account

With this option, money is paid into a UK bank account. This can be an account held by you or your representative, but it must be a separate account used only for direct payments transactions, clearly showing how the money has been spent on your support.

You will need to send statements and receipts to the council quarterly (or whenever requested) as evidence of spending towards your care and support needs.