PEOPLE who need care will be given more freedom of choice under a pioneering new scheme being introduced by Rotherham Council.
Under the Direct Payments scheme money will be given to people so they will have more freedom to arrange and buy their own care.
Direct Payments will be available to over-16s who have physical, learning or sensory disabilities. They can also be give
n to people with HIV/AIDS or mental illness.
People looking after a disabled child or with disabled parents can also claim the payment, as can older people and anyone living in residential care who wish to live independently in the community.
The money can be used to employ personal assistants and even to pay a relative as long as they do not live in the same household. So far most payments have been used to employ a personal assistant or home carer.
But Social Services bosses say the money could also be used by a young disabled person who may want to leave home to go to university or to set up home themselves.
Cabinet member for Social Services, Maurice Kirk, said: "Although Rotherham prides itself on the support it gives to those who need care, Direct Payments is a huge improvement on the previous system because it gives people a greater choice and control over their own care arrangements.
"There are as many ways to use Direct Payments as there are people who are getting them. It also means that Social Services staff can be more imaginative in finding ways to help people.
"People can choose whether or not to opt for Direct Payments and can change their mind at any time. It is completely their choice and there is lots of free support available to help them with it."
More information about the new scheme from Social Services on 01709 823908.
