Direct payments and commissioned services are two different approaches to providing care and support to individuals with care and support needs in adult social care in the UK. While both methods aim to provide high-quality care and support, there are some key differences between them.

Direct payments

Direct payments are a form of financial support that enables individuals to have more control over their care and support needs. This system allows individuals to receive money directly from their local authority to purchase their own care and support services instead of relying on traditional services provided by the authority. This way, people can choose the services they want and receive more personalized support that fits their unique needs and preferences.

One of the key benefits of direct payments is the flexibility it offers. Individuals who receive direct payments have more control over the type of care and support they receive, who provides it, and when it is provided. They can choose to use the money to pay for personal care and support services, such as help with bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting, practical support services, such as cleaning, cooking, shopping, and laundry, support with getting out and about, social activities, respite care, and home adaptations and equipment.

Direct payments can also be used to pay for the services of a personal assistant or carer who can provide care and support in the individual’s own home. This allows individuals to choose a carer who they feel comfortable with and who can provide personalized care that meets their needs.

Another benefit of direct payments is that they can help to reduce social isolation and loneliness. By providing individuals with the opportunity to participate in social activities, direct payments can help to improve their overall wellbeing and quality of life.

However, direct payments also come with some challenges. Individuals who receive direct payments are responsible for managing their own care and support, which can be daunting and overwhelming for some. There is also a risk that individuals may not use the money appropriately or may not receive the care and support they need if they are not able to manage the payments effectively.

Commissioned services

Commissioned services, on the other hand, are traditional services provided by the local authority or a third-party provider. The local authority is responsible for commissioning services that meet the needs of individuals with care and support needs, and these services are then delivered by a provider who has been awarded a contract by the local authority.

One of the key benefits of commissioned services is that they are typically managed and delivered by experienced professionals who have been trained to provide high-quality care and support. This can provide individuals with peace of mind that they are receiving the care and support they need from qualified and experienced professionals.

Commissioned services can also be beneficial for individuals who do not want the responsibility of managing their own care and support. The local authority is responsible for managing the services and ensuring that they meet the needs of the individual, which can be reassuring for some.

However, commissioned services can also come with some challenges. Because they are provided by a third-party provider, individuals may not have as much control over the type of care and support they receive or who provides it. They may also have limited options for social activities or other services that are not part of the commissioned services.

Another potential downside of commissioned services is that they may not be as flexible as direct payments. Individuals may not be able to choose when or where the care and support is provided, which can be inconvenient for some.

If an individual has had a social care assessment and is eligible for support, they will usually be able to choose between having a direct payment or a commissioned service, or even a combination of both. Whatever they choose, their needs should be fully met by the support package and reviewed regularly to ensure no changes need to be made.