Residents signed up and accepted for a ‘Direct Payment’ enabling them to choose and pay for their own personal care, really felt the benefits during the pandemic.
This method of receiving a payment into their bank account or onto a prepaid card gave them personal control over the care they felt they needed and wanted, especially important at that difficult time.
Now that people are getting out and about much more, a Direct Payment again opens many opportunities for those whose care is funded by Bromley Council to choose the way in which the money can be spent to fit in with their own personal lifestyle.
Councillor Diane Smith, Executive Councillor for Adult Care and Health said, “Direct Payments offer greater independence for those with care needs to live life how they want to with the right support in place. Residents and their families have more control over the kind of support they want with the flexibility to adapt as care needs change, leading to better satisfaction and quality of life. We are working in collaboration with partners to improve understanding and access to Direct Payments, meaning that more residents can take advantage of this flexible way of getting the care that suits them best.”
Members of the One Bromley Integrated Care Partnership, led by Bromley Council and health partners, working with other key organisations, are redoubling their efforts to make sure all eligible residents are aware of how they, or someone they are caring for, can request a Direct Payment and take full advantage of purchasing more personalised care to suit their precise needs.
New handbooks, along with upgraded web material and staff training will help advise eligible residents and their families about this up-to-date method of receiving care, with help at hand from Bromley Council to navigate the process. Once set up, regular payments can be made with the resident able to make up their own mind about how the money is spent, maintaining more independence and control over their lives.
Kim Carey, Director of Adult Care and Health said, “Independence and control are important parts of making sure everyone’s care needs are met. Additional training for staff, support for residents both online and by phone and extra benefits such as pre-paid cards and updated guidance handbooks make Direct Payments much easier to set up and manage.”
How to get a Direct Payment
Those aged 16 or over and who have a disability, a long-term medical condition or mental health support needs (or are a parent or carer of a disabled child), can arrange for a Direct Payment after completing an assessment that determines a personal budget and needs. Payments are made from Bromley Council directly into an account every four weeks to use for care support as agreed in the support plan.
Those already receiving services for care needs from Bromley Council, or those who feel they may be eligible for support can learn more by visiting www.bromley.gov.uk/directpayments
Specialist Direct Payments advisors from our Integrated Direct Payments Service are also on hand to answer questions on 020 8461 7276 or by email at DirectPaymentsTeam@bromley.gov.uk
ENDS
- For media enquiries, please contact Liam Scoble in Corporate Communications, on 020 8313 4688 or email liam.scoble@bromley.gov.uk