Directing your own support

Self-Directed Support is for people who would like more flexibility, choice and control over their support so that they can live at home more independently. It is not the name of a particular type of service, but a way to tailor-make community care that better suits you.

If you choose to direct your own support, you are in charge of the arrangements. You will get a sum of money to spend on the support you need instead of receiving council services. If you want, you can choose to organise some of your own support and also receive some council services.

How to Use Self-Directed Support

Self-Directed Support can be used in many ways. You (or your child) can get support to live in your own home, such as help with having a bath or getting washed and dressed. Out of the home it could support you (or your child) in college, to continue in employment or take a job, or to enjoy leisure pursuits more. Instead of relying on the activities run at a day centre, you might arrange for a personal assistant (PA) to help you attend local classes, go swimming, or be a volunteer helping others. It could also be used to provide a short break (respite), for equipment and temporary adaptations, or for housing support services. You can choose whether you would prefer to get support from a service provider such as a voluntary organisation or care agency, or by employing PAs, or a combination of both.

Almost any disabled or older person should be able to direct their own support if they choose it and every Scottish local authority must offer those who are eligible the opportunity to do so.

For more advice and guidance read A Users Guide to Self Directed Support in Scotland [PDF - 258Kb].