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We want to hear from you: please tell us about your experience of the online community.

Could we do more with support?

whistles

I could do with an enabler. Until I was chatting to my friend I had no idea these people even existed. You usually need to book these people up way in advance as they get so booked up.

I touched base with one person that I might be able to make an arrangement with to have a day out next year. I don't get to go out for the day. It will be nice to choose somewhere I can get to and have someone with me for company.

I could do more with my life though if I was able to pay someone on a monthly basis to help me.

Anyone else struggling to find paid support?

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Comments

Danlangridge88

WHat does an enabler actually do?

smokey18

I received that type of support from Headway. I sure if you contact Headway, if they cannot assist you- they maybe able to signpost you to an organisation that can provide the support you are looking for.

WhatThe

Headway ❤️

Jellihead

@whistles

Here is a link that explains how you can get an enabler or other services from you Local Authority

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/social-care-and-support-guide/money-work-and-benefits/when-the-council-might-pay-for-your-care/

Also your GP surgery will have a Social Prescriber who may be able to suggest what is available in your area. Good luck!

whistles

Thank you will look at that.

whistles

All the other things that a carer doesn't do.

Taking you places ie doing the shopping, but it can be taking you out to cinema if that gives you more independence having someone with you.

whistles

https://forum.scope.org.uk/discussion/comment/958013#Comment_958013

This link is in regards to care and direct payments. I have already been assessed and get this.

Enablers are something different that not many people know about.

OverlyAnxious

I looked for something like this around 5 years ago and couldn't find anything in my local area. It's too late for me now, but good to know this service does exist now.

smokey18

sorry to hear that. Hope you find what you need soon. All the best.

Banarama123

https://forum.scope.org.uk/discussion/comment/958018#Comment_958018

hi. I would be interested to know what you mean by care and direct payments. Thanking you in advance. Merry Xmas.

Jellihead

@Banarama123 @whistles

Hi both, in answer to the questions above.

Enablers are the same as Personal Assistants, Support Workers basically anyone who you can find who is able to help you to do the things that you would like to do. They can be members of family or close friends as long as they do not live with you. For example they could help you to get to the shops, go to the gym, swimming, local pub quiz, anything that you need to help you to be as independent as possible.

The assessment will usually decide how many hours of care and support you need a week and provide money for that. Direct Payment means that either you or someone you trust, maybe someone who has Power of Attorney for you will administer what the money that you are allocated is spent on. You have a specified Direct Payment account in your name which can only be used for the care, services and support specified in the assessment.

For example, you may be assessed as needing 6 hours of support a week to get you to the shops, take part in craft making locally, go to a museum, art gallery, swimming, cinema, whatever will help you keep your independence.

In some cases you may get additional funds for gym membership, swimming/dance/aerobics/tai chi classes, some of this is available from your GP practice Social Prescriber.

Hope this helps.

Banarama123

https://forum.scope.org.uk/discussion/comment/959668#Comment_959668

hi. Sorry to ask another question. But where would I apply once I found someone who could help me do things. N my any thanks

Jellihead

@Banarama123

Hi, don't be sorry. There are several ways that you could find a PA, Enabler, etc. For example, family member, if they do not live with you can be a PA. Or if you have a neighbour friend who you would like to ask. More formal arrangements will be through your Local Authority or look up companies offering carer support, locally to start with. Also go to your GP surgery and ask for an appointment with a Social Prescriber, they should be able to point you in the right direction as your Social Worker should know who they are.

Hope this helps.

whistles

I am being reassessed so hopefully I will get allowed more hours.

whistles

I think a family member or friend can blur things especially as you are paying them.