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Direct Payments are payments made to a disabled person (or a representative of their choosing) into a bank account or prepaid card. These payments are made in advance, usually every four weeks. They enable people to purchase and arrange their own support to meet their needs. The aim of direct payments is to give people more choice, greater flexibility and more control over the support they get.
People can use their direct payments to choose how to have their care provided. Many people choose a Personal Assistant (PA) as a solution to their care needs. Some choose to use a care agency.
Direct Payments can be made to people of all ages. For children and young people under 16, payments are made to an adult who has parental responsibility.
You can receive Direct Payments if:
- You have been assessed as needing social care services to support you with daily living
- You have a disability with social care needs
- You consent to receiving a Direct Payment and either you or your representative can manage the payment
You can only receive a Direct Payment if Sandwell Council has assessed you as needing support to live independently.
During the assessment, they will determine:
- The estimated cost of your required care, which correlates with your Direct Payment.
- Whether you require financial assistance.
To enquire about applying for Direct Payments, please contact Sandwell council on:
Telephone: 0121 569 2266
Email: sandwell_enquiry@sandwell.gov.uk
If your care and support needs meet the eligibility criteria, Sandwell Council will provide an estimate of the potential amount you might receive as a personal budget, based on the assessed care and support needs.
1.Direct Payment to a Bank Account
With this option, money is paid into a UK bank account. This can be an account held by you or your representative, but it must be a separate account used only for direct payments transactions, clearly showing how the money has been spent on your support.
You will need to send statements and receipts to the council quarterly (or whenever requested) as evidence of spending towards your care and support needs.
The Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council’s Direct Payment (DP) rate is set at the National Minimum Wage (NMW). If you wish to pay your PA a rate higher than the NMW, you must discuss this with your social worker. They will help you determine if the increased rate is acceptable and guide you through the budget approval process necessary to adjust your DP payment.
If the council does not approve the higher rate, you will need to cover the difference yourself by contributing to your DP account. Additionally, be sure to inform your payroll provider about any changes in the pay rate and how the increased cost will be funded.
Register your interest: Sandwell Direct Payment holder Buddying programme
The Sandwell Buddying Programme pairs experienced Direct Payment holders with those who are newer to the process.
This three-month programme offers monthly peer support meetings, where participants can connect, share insights, and learn from one another’s experiences.
Below are some of the key benefits of participating in the Buddying Programme, both for experienced buddies and newer Direct Payment holders:
Benefits for Newer Direct Payment Holders:
✅ Gain valuable guidance from someone who has been through the process and understands its challenges.
✅ Build confidence in managing direct payments with practical tips and support.
✅ Receive personalised insights and answers to questions from your peer.
✅ Join a supportive community and feel connected to others on the same journey.
Benefits for Experienced Direct Payment Holders:
✅ Make a meaningful impact by supporting someone new to the process.
✅ Enhance communication and mentoring skills through peer support.
✅ Reflect on your own journey and recognise your growth and expertise.
✅ Be part of a community of Direct Payment holders who are committed to supporting one another.
The Buddying Programme is a valuable opportunity for both new and experienced Direct Payment holders to connect, grow, and feel empowered in managing their payments.
Sandwell Direct Payments toolkit
For information about applying for Direct Payments:
Purple DPSS contact details
Employment Advice and Guidance queries: sandwell@purple-dpss.co.uk
Timesheets & Employed PAs pay queries: sandwellpayroll@purple-dpss.co.uk
Invoices & Self Employed PA & Agency pay queries: sandwellinvoices@purple-dpss.co.uk
Pension queries: pension@purple-dpss.co.uk
To contact us by phone: 0121 269 8465
If your call is unanswered, please leave a message. All missed calls are regularly monitored and returned as soon as possible.
In person visits by appointment only at our office – Castlemill, Burnt Tree, Dudley, DY4 7UF
Request an appointment: www.wearepurple.org.uk/request-an-appointment
Free befriending services
LETTERBOX is a free penpal befriending service for socially isolated and lonely people. Our clients are carefully matched to volunteer befrienders. They exchange supportive, friendly letters to share stories about their lives, families, interests, or whatever they wish.
CHATTERBOX is a free telephone befriending service for socially isolated and lonely people. Our clients are carefully matched to DBS-checked volunteer befrienders. They exchange supportive, friendly phone calls to chat about their lives, families, interests, or whatever they wish.