Supported accounts

A supported account for direct payments is needed when someone receiving direct payments requires assistance with managing the financial aspects of their care package.

This is often the case when individuals have difficulty managing the financial side of direct payments or lack capacity to do so.

This ensures that the direct payment is used appropriately while allowing the individual to remain in control of their care choices.

Supported accounts are now run by the Virtual Wallet, and were previously known as ‘managed accounts’.

When supported accounts are helpful

A supported account from the Virtual Wallet is a practical option for people who need help managing the financial side of their direct payments. It allows them to stay in control of their care while getting the support they need.

Supported accounts offer a range of advantages:

• Support with finances: If an individual finds it hard to manage the financial side of direct payments, like paying Personal Assistants (PAs) or handling invoices, a supported account can help by taking care of these tasks
• Lack of capacity: If an individual doesn’t have the mental capacity to make decisions about their care or manage the money involved, a supported account can be set up. A trusted person or organisation can then manage the funds on their behalf
• A step towards independence: A supported account can be a useful stepping stone for individuals who wants to manage their direct payments on their own in the future. A supported account provides individuals with time to build confidence and learn how to manage their care budget
• Temporary support: Supported accounts can also be used for a short time, for example, while an individual is learning how to manage their direct payment, until a suitable person is found and trained to help
• Specific needs: Some people with complex care needs or unique situations may benefit from a supported account to make sure their direct payments are used in the best way

How a supported account works

Instead of the direct payments being paid directly to the individual, the funds are transferred into an account managed by a third party, the Virtual Wallet. This secure platform simplifies the management of direct payments by allowing users to view transactions, approve payments, and manage their budget in line with their support plan.

This organisation handles finances, such as:

• paying Personal Assistants
• paying invoices
• sending financial reports to the County Council

The person receiving the direct payments still makes the decisions about their support and how the money is used.

The Virtual Wallet can also offer advice and guidance to help the person gain the skills and confidence to manage their direct payments independently in the future.

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)