Anyone had experience of using direct payments for carers?

[Eulalia]

Don't know if this is just a Scottish thing but basically we are in the middle of a social work assessment and have been told we are entitled to support. Not clear what this will be yet but a large part of it will be direct payments for us to spend on carers. It is all managed through an intermemdiate who does advertising for staff, Disclosure Scotland checks etc, but we do have to register as an employer.

Anyone else done this and has it been successful? My main concern is finding carers in this rural area. I think it works out cheaper for Social Work as carers through an agency are expensive. My thoughts are that they would be much better qualified but on the other hand there can be a problem with continuity of care.

The social worker is coming back next week to finalise everything so it would be ideal if I had an idea of what has worked best so I know what to push for.

Thanks.

I am payed through DP.

i have a feeling that you cannot employ someone who already works for SS on your terms though.

Basically, my employer employs me, pays tax etc, and I work for her, even thoughs n outside body placed the advert.

Only problem I have had was constantly being paid late.

my three were assessed and passed for DP'S 8 hours per month, apparently the lowest hours they can give!, we are in process of getting it sorted, we have three workers 2 from my DD'S special needs school, and another one who is a close mate. have just handed out some tax info type forms but i am really not sure of proceedure so i am hoping someone on mumsnet will be further down the line and know whats next.

Thanks. There is an organisation here who does it all for you ie place adverts for staff, help with taking up references, do the payroll, take off tax and NI for you. Even so I didn't think it would be so 'formal' but am willing to take it on if we get the help. We are aiming for 3 hours a day week days and 5 hours weekend days, so a total of 25 hours a week. Doubt if we'll get that but that's the starting point. Also looking into after school club and possibly seeing if he can go to Beavers (early version of Scouts). He also loves soft play areas but needs constant supervision as he can often get into disputes with other kids here.

Sorry didn't mean to start rambling on.... will let you know how it goes onlyjoking and good luck to you.

thisthread may help but there have been lots of others in the past. I'd try the archive (which is crap) and also switch SN to Alpha and look under "D".

Thanks Davros.