Buying services from an agency/day centre
You can use Direct Payments to pay for care support that has been identified and agreed in your Care Support Plan. You can employ someone directly or use an agency.
You can combine Direct Payments with services arranged by Adult Social Care.
When using a Direct Payment you are responsible for making arrangements to meet your care support needs.
If you buy services from a care agency, the agency will employ the staff who provide the care for you. You will need to sign a contract with the agency to agree the terms and conditions of the support provided.
Direct Payments can only pay for the care hours you have been assessed as needing. Any extra hours, double time on a bank holiday, expenses, and mileage charged by the agency must be paid from your own money.
There are many care agencies in Sefton.Your Direct Payments Advisor can give you a list of these. It’s a good idea to contact several agencies before deciding.
In England, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) regulates health and social care services. The agency you choose must be registered with the CQC if they are providing you with personal care support.
They have an online directory of registered care services.
When contacting agencies, we suggest you ask about:
- The services they provide (e.g., personal care, shopping).
- The rate they charge per hour and if there is a different rate for weekends, evenings, or bank holidays.
- Whether the rate includes VAT, travel expenses, and other costs.
- Whether it will be the same staff members who provide care on a regular basis.
- Availability for your required call times.
- Employer liability insurance.
You can mix using an agency with employing your own personal assistants. You can also use an agency to cover when your employee is on holiday or sick leave.
If the agency charges more than the standard Direct Payments rate, you will need to pay the difference from your own money. This is called a “top up.”
There are various Council, Voluntary, and private Day Centres in Sefton where you can:
- Meet others.
- Join social and leisure activities.
- Receive personal care.
- Give carers a break.
Some day centres may offer training or work projects for people with disabilities. Others may help those recovering from illness.
If you’re assessed to attend a day centre, you can have the money paid as a Direct Payment.
The council can provide you with a list of day centres. You will need to book your preferred days and pay the day centre directly.