Direct Payments and Flexibility: A Review of All Local Authority Policies in England
A review of direct payment policies across English councils, identifying opportunities for more flexibility.
Self-Direction in the United States and England: Similarities and Differences
Self-direction in social care has become an increasingly critical approach for individuals who seek greater autonomy over their support systems. This blog is inspired by a thought-provoking conversation between Molly Morris from The Self-Direction Center in the United States and Chris Watson from Self Directed Futures in England. Both professionals are deeply engaged in advocating for self-direction and supporting its […]
Using Individual Service Funds (ISFs) for Holidays
The question of whether Individual Service Funds (ISFs) can be used for holidays and recreational activities is a common and sometimes contentious issue in social care. Many ISF providers and families report confusion, inconsistent decisions, or outright refusals from local authorities regarding the funding of short breaks, respite, and supported travel.
Jointly Purchasing Supports Through Direct Payments and Individual Service Funds
Self-Directed Support (SDS) has transformed how individuals access and manage their care. By offering personal budgets, Direct Payments, and Individual Service Funds (ISFs), SDS enables people to design care arrangements that align with their personal needs and aspirations. However, while these mechanisms are well established, joint funding – where individuals combine part or all of their […]
Reflections on Barriers and Opportunities for Increasing the Uptake of Direct Payments in England
1. The Policy Landscape 1.1 Origins and Development Direct Payments (DPs) were introduced under the Community Care (Direct Payments) Act 1996, aiming to shift control from local authorities to individuals requiring social care support. The underlying principle was to promote personal autonomy by allowing recipients to manage their own care arrangements rather than relying on traditional […]
A Learning Disabilities & Autism Commissioner’s Guide to Shaping the Market for Individual Service Funds (ISFs) and Fading Support
Commissioning for Individual Service Funds (ISFs) presents local authorities with an opportunity to develop a more person-centred, flexible, and sustainable care system. Unlike traditional block contracts or time-and-task models, ISFs shift decision-making power to individuals, allowing them to shape their support in alignment with their personal goals, ambitions, and long-term independence. However, introducing ISFs alone […]
Transforming Care in Rural England
Rural communities across the UK face unique and complex challenges in accessing effective social care. Geographical isolation, workforce shortages, and inadequate infrastructure exacerbate the difficulties of delivering equitable services in these areas. Despite these challenges, innovative models and community-driven initiatives offer opportunities to rethink and reshape how rural social care is provided. In 2023/2024, IMPACT […]
ISF Outcomes: Comparing Progress in Wakefield and Warwickshire
Individual Service Funds (ISFs) offer an alternative to traditional care and support models that often limit individual autonomy. This article dives into two case studies—Wakefield and Warwickshire—each demonstrating how ISFs can deliver transformative outcomes for those who use them. Wakefield: Building Community and Confidence Through ISFs In Wakefield, 38 individuals receiving ISFs participated in a […]
The Importance of Crafting a Robust Individual Service Fund (ISF) Contract and Specification
When it comes to delivering effective social care, Individual Service Funds (ISFs) are a key tool for providing people with choice, control, and flexibility. Behind every successful ISF lies a well-constructed contract and service specification. These documents are not just bureaucratic necessities. They are the backbone of accountability, clarity, and trust between councils, providers, and […]
Individual Service Funds: A Step-By-Step Process
Individual Service Funds (ISFs) empower people to take greater control over their care and support, offering a tailored approach that aligns with personal goals and needs. This step-by-step guide outlines the key stages of implementing an ISF, from assessing needs and allocating budgets to co-designing support plans and ensuring accountability. By following these processes, ISFs […]
