Trends and variations in self-directed support and direct payments for adults with learning disabilities

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide information concerning trends over time and geographical variations in the number of adults with learning disabilities in England using self-directed support (SDS) and direct payments (DPs).

Design/methodology/approach

Analysis of local authority returns to the Health and Social Care Information Centre (RAP Table SD1) concerning the number of working age adults with learning disabilities accessing SDS and DPs from 2009/2010 to 2011/2012.

Findings

From 2009/2010 to 2012/2013 there has been a rapid increase in the number of working age adults with learning disabilities using SDS, particularly in the form of council services only, with the number of people using DPs staying largely static. There are wide geographical variations in the likelihood of adults with learning disabilities accessing all forms of SDS/DP.

Originality/value

This paper analyses trends over time and geographical variations that have not previously been published in a peer-reviewed journal.

Citation

Hatton, C. (2013), "Trends and variations in self-directed support and direct payments for adults with learning disabilities", Tizard Learning Disability Review, Vol. 19 No. 1, pp. 35-38. https://doi.org/10.1108/TLDR-10-2013-0043