The difference between Direct Payment and 'direct payments'

Direct Payment of benefits and pensions is different from 'direct payments' from your local Health and Social Care Trust.

Direct Payment - pensions and benefits

If you receive benefits or state pensions your money will normally be paid directly into an account. This is the safest way to pay you and lets you choose how and when you get your money.

How benefits and pensions are paid

Direct payments - arranging your own care and services

Direct payments are local trust payments available for anyone who has been assessed as needing help from social services. You can normally get them if you are a carer aged 16 or over.

The Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (DHSSPS) has published an information booklet about Direct Payments. The guide is also available as an easy read version, and as a Cantonese translation. The guides can be downloaded or ordered over the telephone.