Direct Payments (SEND Local Offer)

What are Direct Payments?

Direct payments are cash payments (rather than directly provided services), which are paid to a young person (age 18 and over), a parent or carer or to a nominated third party. These payments must be used to meet outcomes identified in a care plan or Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plan. By receiving direct payments you are responsible for arranging, managing and paying for the services yourself.

If you choose to have direct payments you can always change your mind at a later date, and ask the council to provide the services directly instead.