Who can get Direct Payments?

Direct Payments can be paid to:

People who are physically disabled or have a sensory impairment
People who have a learning disability
People who are experiencing mental ill-health (but there may be some restrictions)
People aged 16/17 with any of the above disabilities
Parents of disabled children
Older people with community care needs
Carers, from age 16 upwards, of people with community care needs

Can anyone who meets one of the above requirements get Direct Payments?

No, you should also meet all of the following criteria. You must:

need help and support to lead an independent life, for example, help with your personal care or day to day living activities;
have an assessment called a 'Community Care Assessment' carried out by the Adult Social Care Service, to see how much support you need. We will then agree a 'Care Plan' with you;
be able to manage your own affairs, or have someone who can help you to manage with, for example, keeping records, making payments or employing your staff.