Please explain the principles underpinning self-directed support and how this differs from traditional support
Seven principles of self-directed support
1. Right to independent living
If someone has impairment they should be able to get the support they need to live an independent life.
2. Right to a personal budget
If someone needs ongoing support they should be able to decide how the money that pays for that support is used.
3. Right to self-determination
If someone needs help to make decisions then decision-making should involve that person as much as possible and reflect that person's own interests and preferences.
4. Right to accessibility
People must be able to understand the systems and rules to maximise the ability of the person to control their own support.
5. Right to flexible funding
When someone is using their personal budget they should be free to spend their money in a way that best makes sense to them, without unnecessary restrictions.
6. Accountability principle
The person with support needs and the government both have a responsibility to each other to explain their decisions and to share what they have learnt.
7. Capacity principle
People with support needs, their families and their communities must not be assumed to be incapable of managing their support, learning new skills or making a contribution.
Self-directed support fundamentally changes the relationship between people who are supported and people who work with individuals to provide that support.
Please explain the benefits of an individual having self-directed support
The aim of self-directed support is to promote independence by offering more flexibility in how services are provided to many people who are assessed as being eligible for social services support.
It enables people to take more control over decisions which affect their lives. It is intended to support independent living by giving people more choice and control over their own care. You can employ who you...