Direct payments
Direct payment is a cash payment from social services which
allows you to have more control of the services you receive. They
are not means tested benefit and will not affect your social
security benefits. They are not taxable.
After we have identified your care needs by carrying out a
care assessment,
you can opt to receive the money and pay for services yourself. You
choose the exact service you want, when you want it and who
provides it.
Am I entitled?
Most people receiving social services from the council have a
right to direct payments. This includes:
- Older people who have been assessed as needing care
services.
- Disabled people aged 16 and over, including those with short
and long term needs.
- Carers, in place of receiving carers’ services.
- Families with disabled children for children’s services.
- Disabled parents for children’s services.
How do I receive the money?
You will need to open a separate bank account to receive direct
payments and send in monthly bank statements from this account.
The Direct Payment Support Service (Knowsley Disability Concern)
can help and support you if you need further advice. You can
contact them on 0151 480 8873 or email direct.payments@kdc.org.uk.
Do I have to receive direct payments?
No. You don’t have to receive direct payments. You can still
have your services provided directly by social services. You
can also mix and match and have some support provided by social
services and take some as a direct payment.
Can I use the money to employ a relative?
No. You can’t use the money to employ a close relative or person
living in your home. You must use the money to meet your assessed
needs.
Downloads
You will need Adobe Acrobat to view PDF documents. If you do not
already have this, you can download it from the Adobe
website. If you require these documents in an accessible
format, please contact us.
