We can help you to live independently at home
Direct Payments support
The Disability Resource Centre provides a wide range of services to help you live independently at home.
A Direct Payment is a way that people can access funds to arrange their own care and can continue to live as independently as possible.
It is a way of empowering people to make their own choices and to have control over the support they receive.
Local authorities and health authorities in England and Wales have a statutory responsibility. They must offer support to people with assessed needs and the option of receiving a direct payment.
Benefits of a Direct Payment:
You can manage your own care
Hire your own Personal Assistant (PA) to support you with your needs
Be in control of your care funds and any payments due
Live independently within your own home
Have control over your life and make your own choices
The Disability Resource Centre helps you to live a more independent life
If you decide to hire a Personal Assistant (PA), you agree to take on the responsibilities of an employer such as paying tax and National Insurance. You will be expected to manage these payments and comply with employment law and legislations.
As scary as this may sound, you do not have to manage this alone. You can choose to use our Direct Payment Support Team to provide comprehensive support and advice every step of the way.
We will ensure that your payments and accounts are fully up to date and you are complying with all employment and HMRC regulations. Our Direct Payment Support Team offers a payroll service that will manage your tax and National insurance responsibilities.
If you would like our full support, we can also provide you with a fully managed account service. This allows you to still have control of your bank account, but without the stress of having to think about dates, deadlines, and compliance. We can also provide you with regular statements and updates, so you can choose to be as involved or uninvolved as you like (this service is subject to terms and conditions).
Read our new Direct payments services brochure for full details
Look through our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for more information on Direct Payments and how they relate to you.
We can help you to get started…
Arrange a free, no obligation appointment (on the phone and/or online) to chat through your options.
To get started simply send us your name, email and phone number (if you prefer us to call you).
We are here for you
Phone: 01582 470 900
Email: info@drcbeds.org.uk
WhatsApp: 07871 744157
Text us: 07871 744157
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Email: info@drcbeds.org.uk
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