The self-directed support process
To get a personal budget there are seven steps that you will take.
Step one
My assessment - finding out what my needs are?
If you are eligible for social care support, we will ask you to tell us about yourself and your life, what works well and what extra help you need.
Your assessment says what your needs are and what would help you to improve your quality of life. You might want your family or friends, or another organisation to help with this step.
Step two
My money - finding out how much
We use the information from the assessment to work out your personal budget for your support. It is not your personal income so this means your benefits stay the same. We will also let you know if you need to make a contribution, and give you information and advice on any other money that you are entitled to.
Step three
Making my support plan
You can now plan the support you want to meet your needs which will show how you will spend your money. Your plan must help you stay healthy, safe and legal. You can get help from us, from your family and friends, or an organisation of your choice.
Step four
Organising my money
You need to say if and how you would like to manage the money. You can be paid, or someone can look after it for you (a person, organisation or the council). You will get as much help as you want to organise your support and your money.
Step five
Agreeing my plan
We need to agree that your plan says how your goals will be met and that you will be safe. You will need to sign an agreement.
Step six
Living life
You can use your personal budget as flexibly as possible to buy lots of different services and support. This step is about managing your personal budget, arranging the support you need and getting on with your life.
Step seven
Seeing how it worked
We will keep in touch to make sure that everything is going well and that you are using the money in the way you said you would.
Remember – you choose how much help you want with each step.
