What a direct payment can and cannot be used for

Direct payments provide more choice and control over an individual’s care and support, but there are important rules about how the money can be used.

Restrictions ensure that the direct payment is used appropriately.

What direct payments can be used for

Direct payments must be used for services that directly address the care and support needs identified in an individual’s assessment and support plan. This could include:

• support with personal care such as washing, dressing or using the toilet
• help with domestic tasks such as cleaning, shopping or preparing meals
• recruiting a Personal Assistant (PA)
• purchasing services from a care agency. For information about potential available care agencies in your area, see: Connect to Support Hampshire
• assistance to access recreational, social, or leisure activities; or equipment that support your wellbeing as specified in your support plan

Some costs, such as insurance and payroll services, are included in your budget if you employ a Personal Assistant (PA).

Cost Calculator

As part of delivering direct payments, Hampshire County Council uses the Cost Calculator to help determine the amount a person will receive in their direct payment to meet their assessed needs.

The Cost Calculator is designed to provide a clear and upfront overview of the resources available within a direct payment.

Your practitioner will provide you with a copy of the calculator for your own records.

 

Accumulated funds

Over time, you may have extra money in your virtual wallet, pre-paid card or bank account. This will be reviewed with you during scheduled reviews or when needed. See more information about accumulated funds.

What direct payments cannot be used for

Misuse of direct payments may result in repayment of funds or the direct payment being withdrawn.

Direct payments cannot be used for:

• anything not directly related to your eligible care and support needs or not included in your support plan
• residential or nursing care (except for respite care, which is limited to up to 4 consecutive weeks in any 12-month period)
• illegal or unlawful practices, including paying workers ‘cash in hand’ or employing people outside of employment law guidelines
• paying someone who lives in the same household as you (unless specifically agreed by Hampshire County Council due to exceptional circumstances)
• household expenses such as utility bills, clothing, food, or debt repayments
• services that should be provided by the NHS
• services funded through other benefits or schemes (e.g. Access to Work or employment support)
• major equipment purchases or home adaptations
• anything that may place you at risk
• alcohol or drug rehabilitation
• paying for services while in prison or on licence

Direct payments should be used in a way that represents value for money. If you choose a service that costs more than a reasonable alternative, you may need to fund the difference yourself.

If you are unsure whether a purchase is appropriate, contact your allocated social work team for guidance.

Support with direct payments

If you have any questions about direct payments or require further information, contact the Direct Payment Support Service (DPSS).

The DPSS can not assist with setting up direct payments. To enquire about setting up a direct payment, make a request to the adults' social care team.

Direct Payment Support Service (DPSS)