Sutton residents use Direct Payments innovatively during lockdown

Direct Payments allow those who have been assessed as needing social care services from the Council to receive cash payments instead of care services. Those residents are then able to arrange the care they need as identified in their support plan. This allows much more flexibility and greater control of an individuals support package. 

Sutton Council has approximately 500 clients using Direct Payments to arrange their care. Throughout the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic the Council has worked with residents to find innovative ways to meet the outcomes of their support plans.

The flexible nature of Direct Payments has proved invaluable for many throughout the COVID-19 lockdown and the Council has been fully supportive and encouraging this  approach.

A.K, a parent in Sutton, reflected on how the payments have impacted their family life during lockdown.

“It has been so understanding of personal circumstances and challenges we are facing. There are good days and bad days, it is very challenging right now for us and we have another child to look after as well."

A.K received a direct payment which was used for toys and equipment to support homeschooling. 

A number of residents across the borough have been able to use their flexible payments to support items to help them at home during lockdown such as; activities to do at home in the garden with their families, sensory materials for those with specific needs, laptop and tablets to support home working and schooling and exercise equipment. 

Councillor Marian James, People Committee Chair said, “Throughout the COVID-19 lockdown the Council worked flexibly to ensure that those who use Direct Payments for support could access what they needed whilst staying home and staying safe. 

Care needs for those receiving Direct Payments continue to be met despite the very different and challenging circumstances. We are ambitious in our support of those residents receiving Direct Payments to ensure they continue to access the support they need through different means as needs be."

To find out more about Direct Payments and to request a needs assessment visit: www.sutton.gov.uk/info/200338/money_and_legal/1064/paying_for_support/2 or contact our contact centre on 0208 770 5000.