This book charts the change, critically evaluating progress, take-up, inclusion and access to direct payments by different user groups. With contributions from leading campaigners, academics, practitioners, direct payment users and personal assistants, the book provides an overview of the history of direct payments; presents findings from key research into direct payments and disabled people, older people, carers, people with mental health problems, people with learning difficulties and disabled children; discusses the implementation and development of direct payments provision and compares developments in the UK with those in North America. Developments in direct payments is an important source of information for social work students and practitioners and others working in the field of health and social care. The useful, up-to-date evidence and discussions relating to care, independence and control will also be of interest to users and providers of help and support.

About the Author
Janet Leece is a social worker currently working as a commissioning officer in Staffordshire Social Care and Health Directorate, UK. Joanna Bornat is Professor of Oral History in the Faculty of Health and Social Care, The Open University, UK.

Reviews
"... an essential read for anyone involved in the promotion and implementation of direct payment schemes." Community Care
"A key strength of this book is the diversity of contributions from academics and researchers as well as direct payment users, who bring a richness of experience. ... I would highly recommend this book to a broad spectrum of readers from academics, undergraduate and postgraduate students, social care and health service providers, direct payment users and personal assistants. Anyone with an interest in direct payments will find this book a useful resource." Journal of Social Policy, Vol. 36 (4) 2007
"Provides an overview of the history of direct payments ... and compares developments in the United Kingdom with those in the United States." International Social Security Review "The book offers a comprehensive account of the complicated and mixed picture of direct-payments, and therefore is highly recommended." Ageing & Society, Vol. 27, 2007.
"An up-to-date review of current developments in direct payments policy and practice. Essential reading for students on a range of relevant undergraduate and post graduate courses." Colin Barnes, Professor of Disability Studies, Centre for Disability Studies, University of Leeds, UK



Book Information
ISBN 9781861346537
Author Janet Leece
Format Paperback
Page Count 320
Imprint Policy Press
Publisher Policy Press