FOI Request - Self Directed Support Options

Request 101003877667

For the following self-directed support (SDS) options, I would like to ask the questions detailed below (please scroll down for questions being asked) :

The four SDS options are:

•  Option 1: Direct Payment
Description: The local authority gives you a cash payment, or an Individual Service Fund (ISF), to arrange and pay for your own support. The money can be paid directly to you, a bank account you manage, or to a third party.

•  Option 2: Directing the available support
Description: You choose the support and services you want, but a third party (such as a provider or the local authority) holds the budget and makes the payments on your behalf.

•  Option 3: Local authority arranges support
Description: The local authority discusses your needs with you and then arranges and manages the services on your behalf. The support may be provided directly by the council or by a subcontracted provider.

•  Option 4: A mix of options
Description: You can combine elements of Options 1, 2, and 3 to create a custom package of support.

Questions for each of the above options are :

1.  Which digital solutions and tech do you use to deliver the SDS options – if none, is this being considered?

2.  Which 3rd party providers do you contract with for the above and what are the contract end dates or any relevant framework agreements

3.  How are direct payments made i.e.. pre-payments cards or bank accounts

4.  In the last financial year, what is the current number of service users who receive direct payments for adult social care at the council?

5. What is the average value of a direct payment per person per year?

6.  Who oversees the management of personal budgets and direct payments and what are their contact details? – i.e. name(s), email(s), and telephone number(s)?

7.  Does the Local authority (LA) offer the option of ISFs (Individual Service Funds) and if so, who oversees this and what are their contact details?

8.  Does the LA support integrated health & social care budgets and direct payments and if so, who is the contact there and their contact details i.e. name(s), email(s), and telephone number(s)?

9.  Does the LA have a directory of Personal Assistants and if so, who is the person at the LA who is responsible for this and their contact details - i.e. name(s), email(s), and telephone number(s)?  

10.  Who is the current Director of Adult Social Care (ASC) or equivalent within the LA and what are their contact details i.e. name(s), email(s), and telephone number(s)?

11.  Who is the current Assistant Director of ASC, or equivalent within the LA and what are their contact details i.e. name(s), email(s), and telephone number(s)?