Information for Professionals
'Empowered 2 support' provides a flexible, accountable commissioning options.
Individual Service Funds are recognised in statutory guidance as a key mechanism for delivering personalised care and support. They can offer greater flexibility, creativity, and responsiveness than traditional commissioned services.
They are particularly helpful where:
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A person does not wish to manage a Direct Payment.
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Employer responsibilities are not appropriate.
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Capacity or vulnerability makes budget management difficult.
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Specialist or bespoke support is required.
Commissioners' guide to Individual Service Funds:
Local Authority
The Care Act 2014 and statutory guidance supports flexible use of personal budgets, including ISFs, where this promotes wellbeing, choice and control.
NHS
The NHS guidance similarly supports third-party managed budgets using independent providers.
Commissioners must offer genuine choice over how a Personal budget is provided.
(A refusal of an ISF/Third Party budget must not be based on organisational convenience or whether local processes/systems allow).
