Direct payments

You may be able to claim direct payments, which allow you to arrange care and services yourself instead of receiving them directly from your local council.The Department for Education website has a parents' guide to direct payments for disabled children.

Am I eligible for direct payments?

Direct payments are available to parents and carers aged 16 or over, including people with parental responsibility for a disabled child. Direct payments can be used for a variety of services that offer your child stimulation, new experiences and independence. These include:

• short breaks
• a place in a nursery that provides specialist support for you child
• assistance to attend an activity, for example a youth club
• and personal care.

How do I claim direct payments?

For further information on direct payments visit the Directgov website.