Option 1- Direct Payment
The person receives a direct payment into their bank account. The person arranges their own support using a budget provided by the authority. The budget can be used to employ staff and/or purchase goods and services. This option gives the person the most responsibility, which may include employer responsibilities.
Option 2 - Directing Available Resources
The supported person decides on the support they want, and support is arranged on their behalf. The supported person uses the budget provided by the authority to choose goods and services, and then the support is arranged on their behalf. This can be arranged by the local authority, or a third party (such as a support provider) can manage the money on behalf of the supported person. The supported person directs the support but does not have to manage the money.
This option is sometimes referred to as an Individual Service fund (ISF).
Option 3 - Traditional Model
After discussion with the supported person, the local authority decides and arranges support. The supported person asks the local authority to choose and arrange the support that it thinks is right for them. The supported person is not responsible for arranging support and has less direct choice and control over how support is arranged. Option 3 services are often traditionally commissioned, however the supported person should still be offered as much choice and control as possible.
Option 4 - Mix 'n match
The supported person uses a mixture of ways to arrange their care and support. The supported person picks the parts they want to have direct control over and what parts they want to leave to the local authority.
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