Direct payments - Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG)
You can access Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) even if you do not receive a Direct Payment.
Thinking About Direct Payments
If you are considering Direct Payments, or if your social care worker has suggested exploring them, you can contact Southend Care Ltd for independent Information, Advice and Guidance.
A Direct Payment can only be agreed through your assessment and support plan with Southend‑on‑Sea City Council.
What Information, Advice and Guidance Can Help With
IAG can help you:
- Understand what Direct Payments are.
- Learn how Direct Payments can be used.
- Decide whether Direct Payments are right for you.
- Review your options if your circumstances change.
You can use IAG before, during, or after a Direct Payment is agreed.
How Direct Payments Can Be Used
Southend Care Ltd can explain how Direct Payments may be used to meet the care and support needs agreed in your support plan. This may include:
- Using a care agency
- Employing Personal Assistants (PAs)
- Buying equipment
- Paying for activities or other agreed support
If You Want to Use Personal Assistants
Southend Care Ltd can:
- Explain what a Personal Assistant is
- Help you find Personal Assistants using local networks and registers
- Explain what being an employer involves
Payroll and Employer Support
Southend Care Ltd can give you IAG on payroll and employer responsibilities.
They do not support self‑managed payroll, but they can help you set up a payroll provider if you choose to use one.
Approved payroll providers include:
- DD Payroll
- Barrie Bookkeeping
- PayPartners
Southend Care Ltd does not currently provide payroll services directly, but this may be available in the future.
If You Do Not Want to Manage the Money Yourself
If you prefer not to manage your Direct Payment funds, Southend Care Ltd can manage a non‑payroll Direct Payment account for you. This can include:
- Paying agreed invoices
- Providing clear statements so you can see how your Direct Payment is being used
What Southend Care Ltd Cannot Do
Southend Care Ltd does not:
- Decide if you are eligible for a Direct Payment
- Set or change your personal budget
- Approve care or support plans
These decisions are made with Social Care as part of the Council’s assessment and planning process.
Financial Assessment
As with all adult social care, you will be asked to complete a financial assessment to see whether you need to contribute towards the cost of your care if a Direct Payment is agreed.
How to Contact Southend Care Ltd
For Information, Advice and Guidance about Direct Payments:
- Email: directpaymentsupport@southend.gov.uk
- Phone: 01702 534737