From: "John Reynolds" To: "Lolworth Parish Council" ; "Irish Nick-Dry Drayton" ; "Girton Parish News" ; "Girton Parish Council" ; "Dry Drayton Web Site" ; "Binnie Harvey-Boxworth" ; "Bar Hill website" ; "Bar Hill Parish Council" ; "Bar Hill News" ; "Dry Drayton News" ; "Girton Website" Subject: Direct Payments Date: 24 May 2007 17:39 SUPPORT SERVICE DOUBLES UP ON DIRECT PAYMENTS The number of people who have been given greater independence to organise their own care support has doubled in Cambridgeshire, figures show. In the last 18 months, the total number of people receiving Direct Payments from Cambridgeshire County Council has grown to more than 480 - an increase of over 100% and more than a quarter of them are older people aged 65 plus. Direct Payments (DPs) are cash payments made directly to a person who has been assessed as needing services. Instead of services being arranged for the person by the Council, or on behalf of the Council, the person makes their own arrangements to meet their needs. DPs are optional and no service user is forced to change the way their existing or future care needs are met, but an increasing number of adults and older people are using Direct Payments because of the added flexibility its gives in care support and the increased independence which can result. County Council Cabinet Member for Enhanced Services, Councillor Fred Yeulett, said: "The aim of Direct Payments is to provide flexibility in how services are provided to those people who are assessed as eligible for services. By giving people the money to buy their own social care services people have greater choice and control over their lives, and are able to make their own decision about when and how their services are delivered." The system works by offering the service user a Direct Payment equivalent to the cost of the service, if arranged by the Council. In addition the County Council contracts with an agency that provides ongoing advice and support to enable services users to manage the process including advice on employing someone. "The County Council is committed to promoting independence wherever possible for people needing social care support. Direct Payments allow users to decide exactly how and when that support is provided," added Councillor Yeulett. Services for adults and older people in Cambridgeshire are provided by the County Council in partnership with Cambridgeshire Primary Care Trust and Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Mental Health Trust. John Reynolds -- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.467 / Virus Database: 269.7.7/816 - Release Date: 23/05/2007 15:59