All staff continue to promote Self Directed Support (SDS), the person-centred
model of service provision used in the Trust to promote greater choice,
independence, flexibility and individuality for children who are disabled and their
families.
Direct payments is one of the options used by children and families in receipt of
SDS and continues to be the service that families choose when support planning.
This is evident in the % of children and families who choose a direct payment and
have lived experience of services.
Facts & Figures
In 2019/2020, the number of children and families choosing direct payments as
their SDS option has increased from 202 direct payment packages to 267 direct
payment packages.
In terms of provision of SDS package, families choosing Direct Payments in this
reporting year has increased from 78.2% to 92%.
Direct Payments for Children
• To undertake an evaluation of the provision of SDS in children's services using a
co-production approach
• To assist staff in their training and development to ensure they are able to support children
and families in SDS, ensuring greater choice, independence, flexibility and individuality.
NEXT STEPS
Facts and Figures
In 2019/2020, the majority of young people known to the Trust's leaving and aftercare service
were engaged in education, training, and employment (ETE). There has been a slight decrease
in care leavers in education, training and employment from 77.2% to 74.2% which can be
attributed to the impact of COVID-19 prior to the end of this reporting period.
The HOPE (Holistic Outcomes through Positive Experiences for Children and Young People)
service has operated for over 2 years replacing the previous employability service. This service
incorporates 4 key service delivery areas:
• Education
• Learning & Development
• Works
• Co-production.
Education and Training for Young People Leaving Care
Research tells us that young people who leave care do not always achieve
the same levels in education, training, and employment as their peers.
The Trust has created and developed the HOPE service to support the
education, training and employment of these young people which aims to
help them reach their full potential.
135
Goal 5: Integrating the Care - Social Care