Funding & Choice
Self-Directed Support (SDS)
A way of arranging social care that gives individuals and families more choice and control over how care is provided.
Rather than having services arranged entirely by the local authority, SDS allows people to choose the support that best meets their needs and personal circumstances.
At MARA Care & Support Services, we understand how important flexibility, trust and consistency are when choosing care. We are happy to discuss how our services may fit within your Self-Directed Support arrangement.
What is Self-Directed Support?
If you are assessed by your local authority as needing support, you may be eligible for funding to help meet those needs. SDS allows you to have more involvement in deciding:
- What support you receive
- Who provides that support
- How and when support is delivered
This puts the individual at the centre of decision-making.
The Four Options
Choosing how your support is arranged
Option 1 — Direct Payment
You receive the funding directly and arrange your own support. This gives the highest level of control and flexibility.
You may choose your own support provider or employ personal assistants directly.
Option 2 — Individual Service Fund
The local authority or another organisation holds the budget on your behalf, but you still have significant input into how support is arranged.
This can offer flexibility while reducing some administrative responsibility. In many circumstances, individuals may still request support from their preferred provider.
Option 3 — Arranged Services
The local authority arranges and manages services for you. This involves less direct control but can still ensure assessed needs are met.
Option 4 — Mix of Options
A combination of Options 1, 2 and 3, allowing support arrangements to be tailored across different needs.
How MARA Can Help
Support designed around you
Depending on your circumstances, we may be able to support people using SDS funding or those arranging private care.
- Care at home
- Personal care
- Social support
- Companionship and befriending
- Community access
- Respite support
Why Families Choose MARA
Good care starts with listening
- Continuity of support
- Familiar faces
- Flexible care packages
- Person-centred planning
- Trusted relationships
Want to learn more about SDS?
Contact MARA Care & Support Services for a friendly, informal discussion about your options.