2.2.1 Direct Payments

• Initial or Core Assessment or review of need undertaken by social worker;
• Level of need assessed;
• Services to meet assessed need determined.

• During the assessment, social worker informs parent of their right to a Direct Payment;
• Advises them of what is involved and provides them with printed information.

• Informed consent of parent has been obtained by social worker;
• Social worker is satisfied that parent is able to manage a Direct Payment or to look at a supported account through the Direct Payments Team and Pendrells.

• Level of service and costs are approved by supervisor.

• Authorisation of the assessed need is considered by a Team Manager. For Children with Disabilities Team a management resource panel is held fortnightly, to consider requests.

• If authorised, details are passed to the Directs Payments Team - Carol Reding - Development and Coordination Officer for set up of account and information of any CRB checks to be completed;
• Inform parents of outcome, drawing their attention to any matter that may give rise to concern about the suitability of the potential personal assistant.

• Direct  Payment details entered onto system by the Direct Payments Team at Newland House.

Social Worker sends out to parents

• Direct Payment agreement for signature of parent;
• Bank mandate form to authorise payment by bank transfer into DP account;
• Returns forms.

• Social worker receives signed agreement and bank mandate form and forward to the Direct Payments Team, Newland House.

• Social Worker advises family to an initial joint visit with a Direct Payments worker to discuss process. Social Worker then reviews the service alongside the Child's Plan in line with Section 17.  At any time parents require further advice and assistance a Direct Payments Worker will join the Social Worker on home visits.