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Confused about direct payments
Leah24
Member Posts: 1 Listener
I had a care needs assessment and I have now been told by social services that even though I have 8 eligible needs they will only meet 2 of them (cooking and bathing). As I am going to be getting direct payments I asked if I could spend my budget on any of my eligible needs but I was told I can only use it for cooking and bathing.
I am really confused and asked them to explain. As an example I am unable to go out grocery shopping and although I try to do online shopping there are times when I am not up to organising this or when I have been let down and had deliveries cancelled. I was told that if this happens I should order take out from Just eat! I know that if this happened and I was unwell I simply wouldnt eat.
As a 26 year old with a variable and unpredictable condition it would be very helpful for me to be able to use the money for other help when required e.g. collecting prescriptions, grocery shopping, help around the house and assistance going out.
Does anyone know if what I have been told is correct?
I am really confused and asked them to explain. As an example I am unable to go out grocery shopping and although I try to do online shopping there are times when I am not up to organising this or when I have been let down and had deliveries cancelled. I was told that if this happens I should order take out from Just eat! I know that if this happened and I was unwell I simply wouldnt eat.
As a 26 year old with a variable and unpredictable condition it would be very helpful for me to be able to use the money for other help when required e.g. collecting prescriptions, grocery shopping, help around the house and assistance going out.
Does anyone know if what I have been told is correct?
Replies
A very warm welcome.
Well done to you, for getting direct payments in play.
Could you be more specific on how you intend to use this funding.
Are you thinking of employing a PA (I would suggest this would best meet your needs), or use an Agency?
Your council will provide a pay and rations service, so you do not have to deal with paying your PA.
The whole concept of direct payments, is for you to decide what your needs are, at any given time.
Have you got it in writing that you should order a takeaway if you run out of food?
That would be of interest to most Human Rights organisations.
If you could name the social services outfit, you are dealing with, it would be helpful.