ASC25078 Direct Payment Support

The Council is seeking a supplier to deliver Direct Payment Support across two distinct Lots. A supplier can be awarded either a single Lot or both Lots

o Lot 1 – Direct Payments Strategic Support Partner

o Lot 2 – Direct Payment Finance Partner

The Direct Payments Strategic Support Partner would be required to deliver strategic support to promote the growth of direct payments across Worcestershire and find suitable services to meet the needs of direct payment recipients.

As part of Lot 1 the Strategic Support Partner would act as a micro brokerage service for Direct Payment recipients, advising what may be available to them in their area, both paid for and free services that might be available in the Voluntary Community Sector (VCS). The Supplier would also be required to advise social work staff where required. This wider remit could lead to closer working with the Communities Directorate, social prescribers and public health initiatives, supporting the Council to deliver the right service at the right time and the right price.

There is evidence that this has worked well in other local authorities, especially with voluntary or service-user-led organisations. It is likely that the VCS will benefit from this approach as they have all the skills available to support people to maximise the potential of direct payments.

As part of Lot 2, the Direct Payment Finance Partner would deliver a financial management service with elements within the contract covering support for the payments, including managed accounts and payroll for Personal Assistants (PAs). The Finance Partner would also be operating managed accounts on WCC’s behalf in line with new approval process and are required to employ PA’s to deliver cost-effective services.