Self-directed support and personal budgets

The aim of self-directed support is to give people control over their support so that they can live more independent lives. Rather than being passive, people are active citizens choosing how to spend their allocated budget with or without help.

One of the main ways people can self-direct their support is through personal budgets or a direct payment.

Personal Budgets Minimum Process Framework

An interactive web resource to help councils simplify processes for delivering personal budgets, in line with Care Act duties.

Key resources

Health and care charities argue that the use of personal budgets in health care reaffirms NHS values

This paper, published in partnership between National Voices, TLAP, Shared Lives Plus and In Control explores the use of personal budgets within the health system. It counters criticism that personal budgets undermine the values of the NHS.

News Item - Personal Health Budget Holders and Family Carers - (POET 2015)

In Control, Lancaster University and Think Local Act Personal have published the findings of the third personal outcomes evaluation tool (POET) of over 500 personal health budget holders and carers.

Individual Service Funds (ISFs) and Contracting for Flexible Support

This Guide, aimed at council commissioners and providers, sets out how councils can contract in a way that gives the person more control over their support.

Getting Better Outcomes for Older People using personal budgets

Report on what does and doesn't work well for older people using personal budgets

Delivering Care and Support Planning

This report offers councils practical examples for delivering Care & Support plans that are both Care Act compliant and person-centred in their approach.

Personal Health Budget Holders and Family Carers - (POET 2014)

POET 2014 surveyed experiences of personal health budget holders. Findings will inform clinical commissioning groups.

Third National Personal Budget Survey (POET 2014)

The survey looks at the experiences of personal budget holders and their carers and is based on the Personal Outcomes Evaluation Tool (POET).

Self-Directed Support: Reducing process, increasing choice and control

Report aimed at council staff responsible for implementing self-directed support

Trust is the key: Increasing the take-up of direct payments

Report with case studies on latest guidance for increasing the uptake of direct payments

Paths to Personalisation in Mental Health

Report, drawing on Making it Real, aimed at people with mental health needs, health & social care commissioners, providers, practitioners, care coordinators.