HomeThe 7 steps to self-directed support
You can download a diagram of the 7 steps using the link at the bottom of the page.
This page gives further information about the 7 steps to self-directed support.
Supported self assessment questionnaire
Self-directed support recognises that people are the experts on their own situation. People will complete a self assessment questionnaire, either on their own or with support from family, friends, other informal supporters or their care manager.
The questionnaire asks for information about needs across a range of areas such as help with personal care and daily living tasks and help to get out and about. Care managers will come to a final decision with people about their level of needs identified in the questionnaire.
People in crisis who need an urgent response to their needs will not go down the SDS route until their situation has settled.
More information can be found in the 'supported self assessment questionnaire' section.
Carers
The questionnaire also asks for information about the support that people will continue to get from unpaid carers. Carers will be encouraged to have an assessment of their own needs. Services are available to support carers in their role and minimise the impact that caring has on their life.
The personal budget
Responses to the questions in the self assessment questionnaire will attract points, depending on the level of need.
The points are converted into an indicative personal budget using a resource allocation system. The indicative personal budget is the likely amount of money required to meet assessed needs. Final personal budgets are confirmed once support plans are agreed.
Charging for social care non-residential services
Some people may have to contribute towards the cost of their support depending on their financial means. We carry out a financial assessment to work out how much, if anything, a person has to pay. More information can be found on 'charging for social care services'.
Support planning
Once people have been notified of their indicative personal budget they will develop a support plan with help if needed or required. People will be encouraged to use their budgets in flexible ways to meet their assessed needs and get the outcomes they want . A support plan template can be downloaded at the bottom of this page.
The local authority retains a duty of care. Plans will not be approved unless they are likely to be effective, lawful and affordable, keeping people independent, safe and well.
Monitoring and review
Reviews will be focused on outcomes. We will review support plans with people at least once a year and more often if needed. People who are taking their personal budget as a direct payment will be given clear information about what records they need to keep and how often they have to send us a financial return.
Direct payments
People may take all or part of their personal budget as a direct payment. Extensive support is available from the direct payment support service to help people manage their direct payment. People in receipt of direct payments may at any time speak to their care manager about stopping direct payments and receiving services arranged by the council instead. For more information see 'direct payments'.
Contact Details
| Self Directed Support Programme | |
|---|---|
| Department | Adult services and housing |
| Telephone | 020 8726 6500 |
| SDS.team@croydon.gov.uk | |
| Address | 13th Floor South Side Taberner House Park Lane Croydon CR9 2BA |
