In Northern Ireland, self-directed support or managed budgets are approaches that empower individuals to have more control over their care and support services. These approaches enable you to make choices and decisions about the support you receive, tailoring it to your specific needs and preferences.

Self-Directed Support has changed how social care services, including homecare, are provided to offer more choice, control and flexibility to individuals and families. It enables you to tailor a support package that best suits you or your loved one’s lifestyle. Self-Directed Support allows for informed choices about how your support is provided, focusing on ‘working together’ to achieve outcomes. It also gives you as much control as you want over how your care budget is utilised. Self-Directed Support includes several options for getting support. You can utilise Self-Directed Support to fund Private Homecare for yourself or family member. 

 

Services we offer with Connected Health Private Homecare:

All Connected Health’s Private Homecare services can be funded with the help of Self-Directed Support, click here to see what services we offer.

 

Options for Personal Care Budgets

Your personal care budget can take various forms under Self Directed Support, including:

  • Direct Payment: You receive funds directly and manage your care independently.
  • Managed Budget: Your care budget is overseen the trust to ensure proper utilization.
  • Handled by your health Trust: Your Health Trust manages your care budget on your behalf.
  • Combination: A mix of the above options based on individual preferences and needs.

 

Who’s eligible for Self-Directed Support?

To qualify for a managed budget in Northern Ireland, certain criteria must be met, subject to local authority or funding body variations. Key eligibility factors include:

  • Care and Support Needs: A needs assessment determines eligibility based on established criteria for care and support.
  • Legal Residency: Managed budgets are typically available to legal residents of Northern Ireland or the UK, with specific residency or immigration status criteria.
  • Financial Assessment: Some health trusts may conduct a financial assessment to evaluate your contribution to care costs, considering income, assets, and savings.

Short video from HSC Northern Ireland explaining Pick ‘N’ Mix’ Self Directed Support

 

What does a Managed Budget cover?

A managed budget generally covers various aspects of care and support services, such as:

Personal Care: Assistance with daily activities like bathing, dressing, grooming, and medication management.

Domestic Help: Support with household chores, including cleaning, laundry, meal preparation, and shopping.

Companionship: Services to combat social isolation, fostering engagement in conversation, recreational activities, and emotional support.

Healthcare Support: Assistance with medication management, wound care, vital signs monitoring, and coordination with healthcare professionals.

Mobility and Transportation: Support for individuals with mobility challenges, including transfers, mobility aids, and transportation for medical appointments or social outings.

 

How to Apply for a Managed Budget?

If you are interested in applying for Self-Directed Support, follow these steps:

Contact Your Local Health Trust: Reach out to your local health and social care trust for guidance on applying for a managed budget.

Needs Assessment: Request a needs assessment by a social worker or care professional to determine eligibility.

Care Planning: Collaborate with the assessor to create a care plan outlining your needs, goals, and preferences for care and support services.

 

Contact your local Connected Health office for more information on Self-Directed Support and Managed Budgets and we’ll be happy to assist.

For more information, visit: https://online.hscni.net/sds/