Want to Choose Your Own Care Provider? Direct Payments Could Be the Right Fit for You

Arranging care can feel overwhelming, especially when someone else is managing the details. Some people prefer to hand that responsibility over and trust the professionals to coordinate everything. Others want to be more involved, choose who supports them, and have a say in when and how that care is delivered.

If that sounds like you or your loved one, Direct Payments for care might be the perfect option.

What Are Direct Payments?

Direct Payments are funds given directly to you by your local council, so you can choose and arrange your own care services instead of the council selecting a care agency for you, you take the lead. You can use Direct Payments to:

• Choose a care provider like Today Care

• Hire a personal assistant (PA)

• Arrange flexible care like respite, companionship, or complex care at home

You're still receiving council-funded support; just with more personal choice in how it’s delivered.

Why Do Some People Choose Direct Payments?

Everyone is different. Some people are happy to let the council coordinate their care from start to finish. Commissioned care works well when:

• You want the council to take care of everything

• You’d rather not handle any admin or decisions

• You’re happy with an approved provider selected by the local authority

But for others, being able to choose your own care agency makes a real difference.

People who choose Direct Payments often say:

• “I want to build a relationship with the same carer.”

• “I’d prefer to set my own times and routines.”

• “I’d like to work with a local agency I already know and trust.”

Direct Payments give you the freedom to coordinate your care your way, while still being fully supported by your local council.

Who Can Use Direct Payments for Care?

You may be eligible for Direct Payments if:

• You’re aged 18+ with assessed care needs

• You care for a child or adult with disabilities

• You’re an unpaid carer needing support

• You’ve been approved for a Personal Budget by your local council

If you qualify, the council can give you the money directly (usually every four weeks) so you can use it for approved care services.

And don’t worry you don’t have to manage it alone. You can nominate someone to help, or use a managed account. At Today Care, we are happy to guide you through it.

How Today Care Supports You

At Today Care, we work with clients who:

• Use Direct Payments

• Pay for private home care

If you choose Direct Payments:

• We’ll help you create a care plan that suits your lifestyle

• You can choose your carer and agree on a regular schedule

• We offer flexible services: personal care, complex needs, respite, and live-in support

• We can assist with admin and liaise with your local authority if needed

If you’re funding care privately, we will build a tailored package that meets your needs with a face-to-face or remote assessment and no waiting lists. We can start your care within 24 hours.

Direct Payments in South Gloucestershire

We support clients across all of South Gloucestershire.

Wherever you are on your care journey, we are here to help you navigate your options.

Your Care. Your Choice.

Whether you prefer the council to coordinate everything or want to take the lead yourself you deserve care that feels right.

At Today Care, we work with

• Direct Payments

• Private home care

We’re here to help you understand your choices, find the right fit, and get the support that makes a real difference.

📞 Talk to us, and we can arrange a visit to discuss your options.