People's views and experiences of receiving direct payments in Brighton and Hove

Healthwatch Brighton and Hove surveyed 127 people receiving Direct Payments in 2023 to understand their experiences of the scheme. Overall, most respondents felt Direct Payments were working well, with nearly three-quarters saying the service was working either “very well” or “quite well”. People particularly valued the flexibility, independence and choice that Direct Payments provided, as well as the ability to employ Personal Assistants (PAs) who understood their individual needs. 

The strongest concern was around recruiting and retaining Personal Assistants. Most people relied on word of mouth to find PAs, over a third had received no advice or support about employing them, and many found recruitment difficult. Increasing PA pay rates was identified as the highest priority for improvement, followed by better recruitment support and more support and training for PAs.

The report also found low awareness of several support services available to Direct Payment users. While most people knew about the Possability People payroll and bank account service, many were unaware of council assessment services, review processes and other support options. More than half of respondents had not received a social care review in the previous 12 months, raising concerns about ongoing oversight and support. 

Healthwatch concluded that Direct Payments are valued and help people live independently, but improvements are needed in awareness of support services, access to reviews and support for recruiting and managing Personal Assistants. Key recommendations focused on increasing contact with Direct Payment users, improving information and advice, strengthening support for PA recruitment and management, and reviewing PA pay rates.