What is a Self‐Commissioned Service in Health and Social Care?

Understanding the intricacies of health and social care can be daunting. One of the key aspects that often gets overlooked is self-commissioned services. This guide aims to break down what self-commissioned services are and how they can impact individuals and families.

What are Self-Commissioned Services?

Self-commissioned services, also known as self-directed support, allow individuals to take control of their own care. Unlike traditional services, where local authorities or health providers determine the care you receive, self-commissioned services empower individuals to make those decisions themselves.

In simple terms, you choose the services you need and manage how they are delivered.

Who Can Benefit from Self-Commissioned Services?

Self-commissioned services are ideal for:

• People with Disabilities: Those who have physical or mental impairments that require regular care.
• Elderly Individuals: Older adults who need assistance with daily tasks but wish to maintain independence.
• Families of Vulnerable Individuals: This includes children with special needs or adults who require ongoing support.

It is a flexible option for anyone needing tailored care solutions.

How Do Self-Commissioned Services Work?

Assessment

The first step is an assessment. A social worker or healthcare professional evaluates your needs. This step ensures that the support you will commission meets your specific requirements.

Budget Allocation

After the assessment, you will receive a personal budget. This budget is an allocation of funds based on your assessed needs. You can spend this budget on the services or support that you require.

Planning

Next, you create a support plan. This plan outlines how you will spend your budget. It includes which services you will use and how often. This plan needs approval from your local council before you can proceed.

Implementation

Once the plan is approved, you start commissioning your services. You can hire carers, pay for therapies, or join community activities as outlined in your plan. Monitoring occurs to ensure the plan remains effective.

What Services Can Be Self-Commissioned?

Self-commissioned services cover a wide range. These include but are not limited to:

• Personal Care: Assistance with hygiene, dressing, and feeding.
• Household Support: Help with cleaning, cooking, and grocery shopping.
• Therapies: Physiotherapy, speech therapy, or occupational therapy.
• Social Activities: Joining clubs, attending community events, or day trips.
• Respite Care: Temporary relief for primary caregivers.
• Equipment: Purchasing mobility aids or other necessary equipment.

This flexibility ensures you can cater to your unique needs.

Pros and Cons

Advantages

• Personal Empowerment: You have control over the care you receive.
• Customisation: Services are tailored to meet your specific needs.
• Flexibility: You can change your services as your needs change.
• Quality of Life: Improved satisfaction and well-being.

Disadvantages

• Complexity: Managing your own care can be complicated.
• Time-Consuming: Planning and organising care take time.
• Responsibility: You are accountable for hiring and managing carers.
• Costs: Budget management is essential to avoid overspending.

Case Studies

To make things clearer, here are a couple of hypothetical examples:

Example 1: Sarah, a Young Adult with a Disability

Sarah has cerebral palsy. She needs assistance with daily activities, but she wants to live independently. Through self-commissioned services, she hires personal assistants to help her with morning routines and evening care. She also allocates part of her budget for physiotherapy sessions and a part-time cleaner. This arrangement allows Sarah to live in her own flat and lead an independent life.

Example 2: John, an Elderly Man with Dementia

John is 78 and has early-stage dementia. His daughter helps him with daily activities but needs to work. With a self-commissioned package, John hires a carer to visit during the day. He also joins a local dementia-friendly community centre. This setup gives John social interaction and provides his daughter with peace of mind while she works.

How to Get Started

Contact Your Local Authority

Your first point of contact should be your local council. They will guide you through the initial assessment process.

Prepare for the Assessment

Gather any medical records, current care plans, and details of your needs. This preparation helps the assessor understand your situation better.

Understand Your Budget

Be clear on how much budget you’ll get and plan accordingly. Speak to a financial advisor if necessary.

Research Service Providers

Look for accredited and reliable providers. Check reviews and get recommendations from other users if possible.

Challenges You Might Face

While self-commissioned services offer great benefits, you might face some hurdles:

• Finding Suitable Providers: Availability may vary depending on your location.
• Budget Constraints: Ensuring your care needs fit within the allocated budget.
• Quality Assurance: Regularly reviewing and monitoring the quality of the services you receive.
• Legal Responsibilities: Understanding employment laws if you hire staff directly.

Final Thoughts

Self-commissioned services in health and social care offer a robust alternative to traditional care models. They provide the flexibility and control needed to ensure that care is personalised and effective. While the process can be complex and time-consuming, the benefits of a tailored care plan can actually improve the quality of life for individuals and their families.

Educate yourself, seek professional advice where necessary, and make informed decisions to get the most out of self-commissioned services. This empowerment can make a world of difference.