Direct Payments

What are Direct Payments?

Direct Payments are local council payments for people who have been assessed as needing help from social services, and who would like to arrange and pay for their own care and support services instead of receiving them directly from the local council. Payments can be made to parents and carers aged 16 or over (this includes people with parental responsibility for a disabled child). 

Direct payments can be used for a variety of services which offer your child stimulation, new experiences and independence. These include:

• short breaks
• nursery placement providing specialist support for your child
• assistance to attend an activity (for example a youth club)
• personal care

New applications

New applicants should contact their local Health and Social Care Services (HASS) team 

Existing applicants

If you already have a Direct Payment and you have a finance query please email directpaymentsfinance@redbridge.gov.uk