subject: Understanding Self Directed Support [print this page] Understanding Self Directed Support Understanding Self Directed Support
Self Directed Support, otherwise referred to as SDS is basically an initiative centered upon the ability of the individual to manage their social care and benefits within a perspective of being able to customise and tailor these according to their needs and ultimately preferences.
Within the allocation of funding from social systems, similar to that of the social security benefits within the United States, the self directed support provides a level funding to cater for the costs associated with health care and support, and is often times specific to the elderly or infirm who require specialised treatment and care. One of the main benefits of the self direct support options afforded to the individual is that the funding is provided in cash, as compared to claiming via a claim or benefit process and one is therefore empowered to select their own providers, the level of care and ultimately the benefits. This is not to say that a blank cheque is issued to the beneficiary in question, but rather a full assessment of the individual and their specific circumstances by the respective social workers or department is conducted to assess and therefore establish an agreed upon level of funding that will be provided for the self directed support of the individual.
The fact that one can receive the funding as a benefit in lieu of services provided by a local authority when it comes to self directed services provides the individual with a much greater range of choices, of which one can elect to secure the services of a private healthcare company. This option is ideal for those that wish to receive nursing care, or related services within their own home, as opposed to having to move into a nursing or care home as such. Additionally the benefits of the self directed support, upon a favourable assessment allow for the use of a PA, or personal assistant with respect to attending to the needs of the individual in question. Naturally one has to utilise the services of an approved provider within these circumstances, of which stands to protect the individual within the perspective of receiving professional and adequate care in accordance with their needs.
There are a number of reasons why individuals seek the option of self directed support, and it really allows the individual to remain in control of their needs, perhaps an extremely important aspect especially with the elderly who in turn retain that responsibility of caring for themselves and their affairs in terms of adequate assistance. According to the Scottish Government, who have published a comprehensive guide on self directed support, these options provides for great flexibility in a wide range of services, in that one can employ staff for assistance, secure the services of a healthcare service provider (who would perform that staffing function) or even both within the application of nursing or health care services.
