The role of an Individual Service Fund (ISF) Broker is both dynamic and empowering, enabling individuals to navigate complexities and achieve a fulfilling life. ISF Brokerage is about:
- Unlocking creativity to tailor solutions for individuals.
- Moving beyond predefined roles, working alongside people to achieve meaningful change.
- Acting as allies for positive transformation as individuals take control of their lives.
This role can also encompass elements of a Community Connector, focusing on linking individuals to their community, strengthening local networks, and fostering social inclusion.
What is an Individual Service Fund Brokerage?
ISF Brokerage is not a rigid list of tasks or a standardised toolkit. Instead, it is a flexible and person-centred approach, enabling individuals to achieve their aspirations for a good life. The broker’s role is to facilitate the outcomes set by the individual, performing tasks that align with their goals and preferences.
Typical activities include:
- Conducting research and making connections to opportunities and resources.
- Preparing cases to present to local authorities that clearly demonstrate how an individual’s aspirations can meet their assessed needs.
- Collaborating with local authorities to identify the most effective ways to meet assessed needs.
- Maximising resources such as funding, equipment, activities, or support to benefit the individual.
- Negotiating with organisations or stakeholders to secure desired outcomes.
- Supporting the development of person-centred plans, including PATH (Planning Alternative Tomorrows with Hope) processes.
- Maintaining regular communication with individuals and their chosen network of support to ensure alignment with their evolving goals.
Key Qualities of an ISF Broker and Community Connector
An ISF Broker and Community Connector must demonstrate dedication, commitment, and a genuine interest in supporting individuals to achieve their goals. Rather than providing answers, the broker enables individuals to find solutions for themselves while fostering connections within their community.
Essential qualities include:
- Resourcefulness: The ability to think creatively and adapt to new challenges.
- Empathy: Understanding the person’s experiences and aspirations.
- Empowerment-focused: Ensuring the individual takes the lead in decision-making.
- Integrity: Acting with honesty, respect, and reliability.
- Adaptability: Balancing innovative problem-solving with practical action.
- Community Engagement: Proactively building and strengthening social networks.
Skills and Attributes
An effective ISF Broker and Community Connector embodies these key skills:
- Commitment to Human Rights: Advocating for equality and citizenship.
- Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrating excellent listening, communication, and facilitation abilities.
- Problem-Solving: Tackling challenges with objectivity and a calm demeanour.
- Documentation: Accurately recording plans and outcomes while encouraging creativity.
- Community Building: Strengthening local networks and advocating for inclusive opportunities.
- Efficiency and Integrity: Delivering results with professionalism and transparency.
Knowledge Base
ISF Brokers and Community Connectors should possess a solid understanding of:
- Legislation and Policy Frameworks: Knowledge of the Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act 2005, and relevant guidance.
- Funding Systems: Insights into local authority processes, ISF mechanisms, and direct payments.
- Service Ecosystems: Understanding how generic and specialised community services operate and how to access them.
- Person-Centred Planning Principles: Familiarity with tools like PATH and MAPS (Making Action Plans).
- Social Networks: Awareness of the importance of personal networks in improving quality of life.
- Community Development: Knowledge of participatory methods, asset-based approaches, and local initiatives.
- Advocacy: Ability to help individuals understand and assert their rights within the social care system.
Expanded Activities
Clear Differentiation of ISF Brokerage
ISF Brokers should communicate the distinct benefits of ISFs compared to other budgetary options. For example:
- Direct Payments: Where individuals manage all financial aspects themselves.
- Managed Budgets: Controlled entirely by the local authority.
- ISFs: Offer flexibility with an intermediary to support financial and practical management.
Community Connector Responsibilities
- Facilitating introductions to local groups, organisations, and activities to reduce isolation and foster inclusion.
- Supporting the creation of personal networks to enhance social connections.
- Identifying gaps in community resources and advocating for initiatives to address them.
- Acting as a bridge between individuals, service providers, and the community.
- Encouraging peer support by connecting individuals to networks with shared experiences.
- Participating in community development projects that promote cohesion and resilience.
Case Studies
Incorporate real or hypothetical examples to illustrate the impact of ISF Brokerage and Community Connection:
- Example 1: Supporting an individual to access funding for a community art class that enhances their skills and mental well-being.
- Example 2: Facilitating a peer group for carers to share resources and support one another.
- Example 3: Enabling someone to transition from shared living to independent living through a tailored ISF plan and local support network.
Metrics for Success
Success in ISF Brokerage and Community Connection can be evaluated through:
- Individual Satisfaction: Regular feedback from the individual and their support network.
- Outcome Achievement: Meeting the goals outlined in person-centred plans.
- Resource Optimisation: Demonstrating efficient use of funding and support options.
- Community Integration: Increasing the individual’s participation in community activities.
Support Structures for Brokers
Brokers require their own support to excel in their roles. This includes:
- Training: Ongoing development in areas such as person-centred planning, advocacy, and legislation.
- Networking: Opportunities to connect with peers for shared learning and problem-solving.
- Supervision: Regular reflective practice sessions to address challenges and refine approaches.
Ethical Considerations
ISF Brokers and Community Connectors must adhere to strong ethical standards, including:
- Maintaining confidentiality and safeguarding sensitive information.
- Navigating conflicts of interest to prioritise the individual’s needs.
- Balancing empowerment with safeguarding responsibilities.
Professional Development
The role offers opportunities for growth:
- Progressing into strategic or advisory roles within social care.
- Pursuing additional qualifications related to person-centred planning or social care advocacy.
- Contributing to the development of ISF policy and practice at a regional or national level.
ISF Broker and Community Connector Pledges
To ensure a high-quality, person-centred approach, the ISF Broker and Community Connector commits to:
- Collaborating positively and without discrimination.
- Working as an equal partner to facilitate self-directed decisions.
- Overcoming limiting beliefs and advocating for individual rights.
- Acting swiftly to address concerns about safety or wellbeing.
- Providing clarity through written agreements on roles and responsibilities.
Person-Centred and Co-Produced Approach
ISF Brokers and Community Connectors support individuals by:
- Respecting cultural, faith-based, and personal values.
- Helping individuals articulate their priorities and navigate choices.
- Enabling informed decision-making while recognising risks and responsibilities.
- Working in environments where individuals feel comfortable and in control.
Communication Principles
Effective communication is at the heart of ISF Brokerage and Community Connection. Brokers pledge to:
- Maintain accessible communication channels tailored to individual preferences.
- Actively listen and confirm understanding through open dialogue.
- Adapt communication styles to meet the needs of the individual.
Chris Watson
Chris Watson is the founder of Self Directed Futures and the Chair of SDS Network England. With extensive experience in strategic commissioning and change management, Chris advocates for innovative, community-led approaches to adult social care.