Self-Directed Support - managing your direct payment

It is possible to change what was originally agreed for your Direct Payment spending. However, any changes must be approved by us before they are made.

Each request is considered on a case-by-case basis. If the proposed use of funds meets an unmet disability-related need, it is likely to be approved. This may include spending on a family holiday if it directly supports the child’s disability-related needs.

Monitoring and receipts

Spending can now be monitored in real time, so quarterly returns are no longer required.

We recommend that you keep all receipts in case of an audit.

Occasionally, a transaction may not clearly show where or what was purchased, and in such cases, you may be asked to provide clarification.

Using the payment card

• The Personal Assistant (PA) must have a bank account to receive payments via instant bank transfer
• The payment card cannot be used to withdraw cash from ATMs or to obtain cashback at tills
• Your Direct Payment will be transferred to your payment card account either as a one-off payment or every four weeks, depending on what has been agreed to meet your child’s needs
• A user guide will be provided before you transition to using the payment card

Adding personal funds

If agreed during the planning stage, you may add personal funds to the account. For example, if SDS funding is approved to support physical wellbeing but you choose a private gym that exceeds the agreed cost, you may be asked to top up the difference.

Funding for holidays

Holidays are only funded if they meet an unmet disability-related need. If not, they are considered family holidays and will not be funded.

Examples include:

Eligible

• A holiday at a resort specifically for children with disabilities and their families may be partially funded. Your worker will discuss what support may be available under Option 1 - direct payment
• Additional costs directly related to the child’s disability (for instance PA attendance or specialist equipment hire) may be considered for funding

Not eligible

Holidays chosen for personal or family preference (such as beach holidays or Disneyland)