When your Support Plan has been agreed, you will be able to choose the way you would like your budget to be managed.
Direct
This option allows you to manage the budget yourself. You can choose where, when and how you purchase your goods and services. You can also ask a trusted family member or friend to look after your budget for you.
Managed
If you choose this option, you can ask Essex County Council to look after your budget for you and provide you with the goods or services you would like. Your options will be limited to only those care services ECC can provide.
Administered
If you are not able to manage your budget yourself you can ask a third party to look after it for you. There are a range of options, such as an independent service broker or provider. It is also possible to have your money managed for you using a trust or an individual service fund.
Whatever method is right for you, the money must still be used to obtain the goods and services set out in your Support Plan.
You must also be clear on your responsibilities.