My life, my choices

The way that care and support for adults is provided is changing in Herefordshire. Along with other councils, we are moving away from the traditional, one size fits all approach to care and, instead, services will become more personal and tailored to individual needs. This means that, instead of relying entirely on services provided by the council, you will be able to choose the support that you want, when you want it. It is called self directed support because you will be in control of your care.

Your care needs will be assessed to help us work out the money available to you for your support. This is known as your personal budget, to be used for the services and care that best suits your needs, help you stay independent and live your life how you want to.

There are 5 stages in self directed support:

1. Assessment;
2. Calculating your budget;
3. Support planning;
4. Organising and paying for your care;
5. Reviewing your plan to see if it works

How will it work?

This new way of providing care and support to meet individuals’ needs is part of a national programme called personalisation.

Self directed support is part of the personalisation programme. It means that, instead of a traditional package of support arranged for you by Herefordshire Council, you will be able to choose the support and lifestyle services that meet your personal needs. It will give you more control over your care.

Please don’t let this change worry you; it will improve your quality of care and we will help and support you through the process.

The aim of self directed support is to help you:

• Remain independent
• Stay healthy and recover quickly from illness
• Have control over your life
• Have the best possible quality of life, irrespective of illness or disability
• Participate as an active equal citizen in your community
• Maintain dignity and respect