Self Directed Support

Self Directed Support is the principle that people have informed choice about the way their social care and support is provided to them by taking control of the money spent on that support.

The new legislation that came into force on 1st April 2014, 'Social Care (Self-directed Support) (Scotland) Act 2013' places a duty on Local Authorities to offer 4 options on how Adults, Children and Carers receive care and support they have been assessed as eligible to receive.

Support options encourage flexibility and creativity.

There are 4 options under Self Directed Support (SDS). Following an Outcome Focused Assessment the Supported Person can choose from the following options:

Option 1
Direct Payment - the money is paid directly to the Supported Person or someone on their behalf so they can buy the support or services themselves.

Option 2
ISF - The Supported Person directs the available support, often described as an Individual Service Fund (ISF).

Option 3
Traditional Service - The Local Authority arranges support for the Supported Person, this may be described as an Arranged or Traditional Service.

Option 4
The Supported Person can select a mix of the above options, often described as 'Mix and Match'.

The SDS approach ensures a person centred culture within our health and social care services. The approach isn't new and will be enriched by the role out of personal outcome plans. This method of assessment builds on individual strengths ensuring creativity and flexibility in developing plans to meet individual's personal outcomes.

Personal outcome plans will consider what is important to and for the individual and their carers empowering them to feel in control.