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Self-Directed Support (SDS)

Understanding Self-Directed Support

Self-Directed Support (SDS) is a way for individuals to have more control over the support they receive. It allows you to choose how, when and by whom your care and support is provided.

SDS is designed to give people and their carers greater flexibility and choice, helping to ensure support is tailored to their individual needs, circumstances and outcomes.

Following an assessment of the person you care for, and completion of your Adult Carer Support Plan where appropriate, those who meet the eligibility criteria for social care support from the local authority will be offered four Self-Directed Support options.

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Become a Volunteer

Volunteers play an important role in helping Dòchas Carers Centre support unpaid carers across Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands. Whether you can spare a few hours occasionally or volunteer on a more regular basis, your time and skills can make a real difference.

Our volunteers support a range of groups, activities and events, helping to create welcoming spaces where carers can relax, connect with others and access support.

As a volunteer, you might:

Help at groups, drop-ins and activities
Support community events and fundraising activities
Welcome and assist carers attending activities
Share a skill, hobby or area of interest
Help create a friendly and supportive atmosphere

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The Four SDS Options

Option 1: Direct Payment

You receive the funding directly and decide how it is used to meet agreed outcomes.
This could include:

•   Employing personal assistants
•   Purchasing support from care providers
•   Accessing services or equipment that support independence

Option 2: Individual Service Fund

The funding is managed by the local authority or another approved organisation, but you remain involved in deciding how it is spent in line with your support plan.

Option 3: Local Authority Arranged Support

The local authority manages the budget and arranges the support on your behalf.

Option 4: A Mix of Options

You can choose a combination of Options 1, 2 and 3 to create a support package that best meets your needs.

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Carer's Support

Do you look after a relative, partner or friend who needs support because of age, physical or learning disability or illness including mental ill health?
Who is a Carer? A carer is a family member, partner, relative or friend supporting someone who needs help to manage a long-term condition, disability, physical or mental health problem or addiction.

Dochas Carers Centre is an independent charity. We help and support unpaid carers by providing information and guidance which can make life better. There are many carers who live many miles from services and access can prove difficult or impossible. We have dedicated Support Workers who provide support to carers throughout Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands.

You can call in person, phone us, request a home visit or make an appointment to speak with one of our staff during the opening hours of the centre.

Find support in other areas of Argyll & Bute

North Argyll

For adult carers and young carers in Oban, Appin, Dalmally, Kilmelford, Lismore, Kerrera, Luing and the islands of Coll, Tiree, Mull and Iona.

Phone 01631 564 422

www.northargyllcarers.org.uk

Cowal & Bute

For adult carers and young carers living in Cowal and Bute area. Please contact Crossroads Cowal and Bute and Carers Centre.

Phone 01369 707 700

www.crossroadscowalandbute.org.uk

Helensburgh and Lomond

For adult carers and young carers living in Helensburgh and Lomond area. Please contact Helensburgh and Lomond Carers Centre.

Phone 01436 673 444

www.hlcc.org.uk

Self-Directed Support (SDS)

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How Can Dòchas Help?

Understanding SDS can sometimes feel overwhelming. Dòchas Carers Centre can provide information and guidance to help carers understand:

•   The SDS process
•   The four SDS options
•   How SDS may affect your caring role
•   Where to find additional support and advice

If you are considering Self-Directed Support or would like to learn more, please contact us and we can arrange for you to speak with our local SDS Adviser.

Contact Us

If you would like information about SDS or support with your caring role, please get in touch with the Dòchas team.

📞 Telephone: 01546 600 022
✉️ Email: enquiries@dochas.scot