Direct Payments & Personal Budgets
Personal budgets and direct payments give people choice and control over their care by letting them arrange their own support within an agreed budget.
Who it serves
People eligible for social care who want to arrange their own support.
Key points
What providers should know about Direct Payments & Personal Budgets.
Supporting Direct Payments & Personal Budgets providers
Support person-centred planning within a personal budget.
Keep clear records of arranged care and spend.
Embed safeguarding awareness for self-directed support.
Track outcomes against personal goals.
Sectors, bodies & frameworks
The care sectors, national bodies and regulatory frameworks most connected to Direct Payments & Personal Budgets. Applicability varies by provider type, programme and UK nation.
Regulatory frameworks
- Care Act — The legal framework for adult social care, assessment and safeguarding in England.
- MCA — Protects and empowers people who may lack capacity to make decisions.
Funding and delivery differ across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. CareFocusIQ is designed to reflect the regulators, funding routes and standards of each UK nation. Explore the nations & regions directory for nation-level intelligence.
Explore other funding programmes
One platform, from national programme to the front line
CareFocusIQ connects national bodies, funding programmes, nations and sectors into a single intelligent platform for UK care.
CareFocusIQ provides technology and intelligence to support care operations and compliance. It is not a medical device and does not provide legal advice. Regulatory requirements vary by provider type, service and UK nation, and remain the responsibility of each provider.