Direct Payments for Older People

Direct Payments are a different way of getting the support you need. Instead of getting services provided by social services, you can be given the money to buy the care you need and choose the kind of support that is right for you. Am I eligible?

If you are eligible for support from Westminster's Adults Services, and can manage your own services either alone or with support, Direct Payments could be for you. You will need:

• a bank account so that Direct Payments can be paid.
• to find and employ the people you need to help you with your care (we can assist you with this)
• to complete returns for the council.

You will get help and guidance in how to do all this. We offer a Direct Payments support service with a choice of support organisations.  They will be able to give you the necessary advice and support to manage your Direct Payments. Please talk about this with your care manager who will be able to tell you more.

I don't have a bank account

Westminster runs a system where people can receive their Direct Payments via a pre-loaded card if they do not have a bank account.

How do I get Direct Payments?

Please contact us on 020 7641 1444 and ask to speak to the Care Management Team about Direct Payments.

Do I have to pay?

You will be assessed to pay for your Direct Payments service, and the amount you pay will be based on your income and savings after all relevant factors have been taken into account. This assessment is undertaken in the same way as if you were receiving services provided by this Department.

More information about paying for care

More Information

You can download the following leaflets for further information about Direct Payments:

• Direct Payments information leaflet
• Direct Payments booklet
• Pre-loaded cards for Direct Payments
• Direct Payments for Equipment or Minor Adaptations