AGE CONCERN (SUFFOLK)

We don't always need someone else to arrange social care support for us - this is known, quite simply, as self-directed support. We have put together some help and advice around relevant legislation, the requirements of local authorities, current limitations and practical guidance. As there is no new legislation on which the government's personalisation policy has been based, it is necessary to show its legal foundations in the development of direct payments legislation and related guidance, and to emphasise that existing rights to social care provision have not changed.

This includes your right to be able to make informed choices whilst receiving the necessary levels of safeguarding from risks. Self directed assessment and support planning require appropriate information, advice and ongoing support to enable you to experience the overall aim of greater choice and control over service provision and funding arrangements.

You should not feel pressed into taking on more responsibility than you feel is necessary with regard to the planning and funding of your care package and you should be assisted to make arrangements that best suit your capacity and aims