1.4 Explain what the following terms mean: • indicative allocation • supported self-assessment • support plan • outcome focused review

This guide will help you answer 1.4 Explain what the following terms mean: • indicative allocation • supported self-assessment • support plan • outcome focused review.

Self-directed support is a way of arranging care that puts individuals at the centre of planning and controlling their own support. This approach encourages empowerment and personalised care. Here, we’ll explain the terms indicative allocation, supported self-assessment, support plan, and outcome focused review to give you a better grasp of how self-directed support works in practice.

Indicative Allocation

Indicative allocation refers to the preliminary amount of funding or resources allocated to a person based on their assessed needs. This figure offers a starting point for individuals planning their care and support with the guidance of professionals. It isn’t a final or fixed budget but provides an estimate to help plan initial decisions.

• Purpose: Helps individuals and their carers understand the level of resources available.
• Process: Used during early stages of assessment to gauge financial support potential.
• Flexibility: Not a finalised budget. Allows room for adjustment based on detailed assessments and changing needs.
• Transparency: Keeps the process open and clear for individuals and families.

Supported Self-Assessment

Supported self-assessment is a collaborative approach where individuals work with care professionals to evaluate their support needs.

• Participation: Encourages individuals to play an active role in assessing their needs.
• Guidance: Provides expertise from professionals to help individuals make informed choices.
• Empowerment: Empowers individuals by respecting their unique understanding of personal circumstances.
• Process: Involves discussing daily living activities and identifying areas where support is required. Questions could cover physical needs, emotional well-being, and social connections.

Benefits

• Promotes independence by acknowledging personal insights and experiences.
• Ensures that the assessment process respects and incorporates the individual’s viewpoint.

Support Plan

A support plan is a detailed document outlining how an individual’s care needs will be met using the allocated budget and resources.

Personalisation: Tailored to meet the specific needs and goals of the individual.

Content: Contains details about:

• Desired outcomes and objectives.
• Resources and services to be used.
• How and who will deliver the support.

Flexibility: Can be updated and modified as needs and circumstances change.

Approval: Must be agreed upon by the individual, their family, and care professionals.

Steps to Create a Support Plan

1. Identify Goals: What does the individual want to achieve with their support?
2. Resource Mapping: Which services and resources are available to assist?
3. Budget Planning: Ensure all expenses fit within the indicative allocation.
4. Timeline: When will different parts of the plan be implemented?
5. Approval and Review: Finalise the plan with all stakeholders before implementation.

Outcome Focused Review

An outcome focused review assesses whether the support provided is effective in helping the individual achieve their desired outcomes.

Objective: Evaluates progress and the impact of the support plan.

Process:

• Review initial goals set in the support plan.
• Assess achievements and areas needing adjustment.

Adjustments: May include changing service providers, resources, or even goals to better align with the individual’s needs.

Frequency: Conducted at regular intervals or as needed to ensure continued relevance and effectiveness.

Key Elements

• Focuses on measuring success against individual goals.
• Encourages continual improvement and adaptation of support plans.

Putting It All Together

Example Scenario

Imagine a person with reduced mobility looking to maintain independence:

1. Indicative Allocation: Receives an initial budget estimate after a general assessment.
2. Supported Self-Assessment: Works with a care worker to identify specific mobility challenges and social engagement goals.
3. Support Plan: Develops a plan to include physiotherapy, accessible transport, and community activities.
4. Outcome Focused Review: Evaluates after six months to check improvements in mobility and social participation.

Key Benefits of Self-Directed Support

• Empowerment: Individuals are central in decision-making.
• Personalisation: Matches support closely to individual preferences and needs.
• Flexibility: Allows changes and adaptations over time.

In summary, self-directed support ensures care is centred around individual needs and goals, fostering greater independence and satisfaction. These terminologies provide a framework to guide care professionals and workers in delivering personalised and effective support.