Services to aid independent living for disabled people

Citation

Morris, B. (2001), "Services to aid independent living for disabled people", International Journal of Health Care Quality Assurance, Vol. 14 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/ijhcqa.2001.06214aab.003

Services to aid independent living for disabled people

Services to aid independent living for disabled people

A Social Services Inspectorate (SSI) report, New Directions for Independent Living, published in October 2000, says that the possibility of leading an independent life is still too far removed from reality for many disabled people.

The report is based on inspections from ten local authorities. Services for disabled people (18-65 years old with physical and learning disabilities and sensory impairments) were assessed to find out how far councils promoted and supported independent living arrangements, particularly through the introduction of direct payments, the scheme that gives money directly to people so they can buy in their own support services, rather than have them provided or arranged by a local authority. The assessment found that the majority of disabled people are still being offered services in a fragmented way, with no obvious consideration of whether services will promote independent living.

Key findings of the report show that:

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  direct payment schemes were taking off slowly but there was still ambivalence towards the scheme by some councils and staff members;

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  more publicity is needed to promote the successes of the schemes and the benefits for individuals;

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  social services were starting to work more with health and other agencies in the planning and development of services but there was significant variation between councils in terms of resource, the levels and the quality of services used;

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  occupational therapy services were over-stretched and relevant skills and experience from this sector were not included in policy and management developments.

Denise Platt, Chief Inspector SSI, said:

This report will help Local Authorities recognise how well-integrated and appropriate services can lead towards full independence. It also highlights the need for an overall approach to make sure that services fit the needs of the individual.

It is clear that direct payments are a good way for many people to achieve a sense of control over their life. We must therefore do everything possible to promote these services and to make independent living a reality.

The report, New Directions for Independent Living – Inspection of Independent Living Arrangements for Younger Disabled People, can be accessed on the Web site at www.doh.gov.uk/scg/social.htm. or contact DH Publications, PO Box 777, London, SE1 6XH. Tel: 0541 555 455; Fax: 01623 724 524.