Issues - Direct Payments

Direct Payments are about you receiving the resources (in lieu of services) from your local trust to pay for the personal social services that your disabled young person (over sixteen) needs and has been assessed for. If you are over sixteen and disabled and meet the requirements and criteria, then you can apply for Direct Payments yourself. If the disabled child or young person is under sixteen years old, it is the parents who apply for Direct Payments, again when the criteria and requirements are met.
It is not a benefit. A social worker or social work assistant, key worker or other appropriate person usually carries out the assessment. The payment is to assist with daily living tasks.
It means that you have more choice over who provides certain services. But there are then certain responsibilities that you will have which you would need to find out about, including your own willingness and ability to manage Direct Payments.
As arrangements and services differ from trust to trust, further information should be sought from your local heath trust or board or from:

The Centre for Independent Living Tel: 028 9087 5001

Carers Northern Ireland Tel: 028 9043 9843

Other voluntary information and support groups may also have information on direct payments, if you prefer check with these.

Family Information Group is grateful to Derry City Council Community Services for supporting this project.