There are other sources of support to enable you to live independently in your own home. For example, some disabled people have a personal assistant to help with daily routines such as getting up, bathing, cooking and getting around.You may be able to arrange this through your local social services department, possibly with help from the Independent Living Fund (see below), or you may wish to make your own arrangements.
Through social services
You have a right not only to be completely involved in the assessment of your needs, but also to be involved in how your package of care and support is put together.The Government has introduced legislation to allow local authorities to make cash payments to disabled people.These are called 'Direct Payments'. Disabled people choosing this option would then take on the responsibility of buying their own package of social care, which could include employing their own personal assistant. Ask your local social services department for details.
The Independent Living (1993) Fund can give cash to help pay for personal and domestic care which enables 'severely' disabled people to live at home.To qualify, you must:
- be over 16 and under 66 when the first payment is made by the Fund; and
- be receiving the care component of the Disability Living Allowance at the highest rate (see 'Money matters' under 'Help with everyday needs').
The social services department must continue to provide £200 worth of services and/or cash per week.
Action point: Contact your local social services department or the Independent Living (1993) Fund.
Tel: 0845 6018815;
Email: funds@ilf.org.uk;
Website: www.ilf.org.uk.
Making your own arrangements
You can contact one of the agencies listed under 'Nurses and Nursing Agencies' in Yellow Pages or you can advertise for and interview applicants yourself. It is a good idea to have someone with you or to get the advice of a local disability action group, coalition or Disabled Living Centre.
