I am a social worker or care manager
Background
The guiding principles of self directed support
In October 2010 self directed support was officially introduced in Oxfordshire after a two stage project: a learning stage (December 2008-March 2009) and implementation.
Background
In April 2008 the S&CS Change Management Board agreed the brief for the project to deliver self directed support in Oxfordshire, and in June 2008 approved the project initiation document (.pdf, 250Kb).
The scope covers all adult clients throughout Oxfordshire and focuses on providing personal budgets for social care funding - although a review will be done around the use of Supporting People funding.
A learning exercise started on 1 December 2008 to understand and begin the implementation of self directed support. See also the scope document (.pdf, 250Kb) and the timeline (.pdf, 85Kb) for details.
The guiding principles of self directed support
Self directed support has emerged from the policy focus on personalisation and people wanting increased choice and control over their lives.
This process of self directed support has seven guiding principles:
1. Right to independent living
I can get the support I need to be an independent citizen. If someone has an impairment which means they need help to fulfil their role as a citizen, then they should get the help they need.
2. Right to an individualised budget
I know how much money I can use for my support. If someone needs on-going paid help as part of their life they should be able to decide how the money that pays for that help is used.
3. Right to self-determination
I have the authority, support or representation to make my own decisions. If someone needs help to make decisions then decision making should be made as close to the person as possible, reflecting the person’s own interests and preferences.
4. Right to accessibility
I can understand the rules and systems and am able to get help easily. The system of rules within which people have to work must be clear and open in order to maximise the ability of the disabled person to take control of their own support.
5. Right to flexible funding
I can use my money flexibly and creatively. When someone is using their personalised budget they should be free to spend their funds in the way that makes best sense to them, without unnecessary restrictions.
6. Accountability principle
I should tell people how I used my money and anything I’ve learnt. The person and the government both have a responsibility to each other to explain their decisions and to share what they have learnt.
7. Capacity principle
Give me enough help, but not too much; I’ve got something to contribute too. People, their families and their communities must not be assumed.
