Join the conversation and help to improve the direct payment process for local people

The Council wants to make sure that when local people have a need for care and support, they also have as much choice and control themselves over this as they are able to.

Direct payments are cash payments that residents can receive instead of the Council arranging services for them. Having a direct payment gives the person more choice, control, flexibility, and creativity over the support they receive to meet their identified social care needs. For example, a direct payment can be used to pay someone (a personal assistant) to provide assistance on days and times that better suit the individual, it can also be used to join activities such as the theatre, swimming, or a day out, or to go on a short break if the individual or the carer are in need of respite.

Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Sheila Little said: “We know that sometimes our current processes and the ways of applying for a direct payment have got in the way of people choosing this as an option. Therefore, we want to hear from, and work with, local people to improve our approach.

“In June and July, we will be hosting two events that will bring residents, Council officers, and other organisations such as community partners together, to review our processes and make changes to improve them. There has already been lots of work to look at this and many local people have told us about their experiences. These events will use this information to share what is happening now and to discuss what is working well, as well as what needs to change.”

Workshop dates and times:

21 June - 10am to 1pm - Northwich Memorial Court, Chester Way, Northwich, CW9 5QJ

5 July - 5.30pm to 8.30pm - Storyhouse, Hunter Street, Chester, CH1 2AR

To book a place at one of the events use the link below or alternatively get in touch with the Council by telephone - places are limited to 30 per session and will be allocated on a first come first served basis.

Direct Payment Workshop

Tel: 07938 600 081

At each event there will be the opportunity for people who want to, to join a focus group. The group will work together over the following six months to improve current processes and the Council’s local approach.

Pictured - JT Reach and Hit Lightfoot Lodge.