Submitted by Anonymous on Mon, 14/06/2004 - 00:00
Health Minister Stephen Ladyman, today allocated funding of £4.5 million to 44 charities to create and boost schemes encouraging people to take up direct payments (cash in lieu of social services). This announcement marks the completion of the second round of successful bids for the Direct Payments Development Fund. Working in partnership with local councils, voluntary organisations over the next 18 months will encourage people to exercise choice and control through the use of direct payments. The partnerships are expected to be up and running by 1 September 2004. The first round of successful bids was announced in August 2003.
Direct payments are key in the Government's commitment to promoting independence and freedom of choice for those needing care and support. By giving individuals money in lieu of social services people have greater choice and control over their lives, and are able to make their own decisions about how their care is delivered. More...
