Personal budgets explained

What is a personal budget

A personal budget refers to the total cost of the care and support services that we agree you need after an assessment. It is usually worked out on a weekly basis.

How can a personal budget be used 

It can be spent in one of three ways. 

A council managed account

The personal budget is held by the council, we arrange services agreed in your care and support plan. 

An account managed by a third party

A third party manages your personal budget for you. This can be the service provider who provides your care. These are often referred to as ‘individual service funds’.

A direct payment

You will be given money to spend on meeting some or all of your care needs according to your support plan, in the way that works best for you.

Read about paying for support with a direct payment.

Choosing a mixed package

You have the option to select a 'mixed package,' which can include elements of any or all three options. 

This can be helpful if you are moving to Direct Payments for the first time, though it is not always necessary.

What you can’t use direct payment for

Direct Payments cannot be used to pay for long-term/permanent placement in a care home or respite care that exceeds 4 consecutive weeks in any year.