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Funding Options for Homecare in Scotland

Finding care for yourself or a loved one can feel overwhelming and understanding how to fund that care is often the biggest concern. The good news is that in Scotland, there are flexible funding options that can help you arrange the care you need while maintaining choice and control.

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A Guide to Self-Directed Support

One of the most valuable of these is Self-Directed Support (SDS) – a system designed to give you more independence when deciding who provides your care and how it’s delivered.
At GoodOaks Homecare Glasgow South, we’re here to help families navigate this process so you can focus on what matters most – quality care and peace of mind.

What Is Self-Directed Support?

Self-Directed Support (SDS) is part of Scottish law that allows individuals to make their own decisions about how their social care is arranged and paid for.
If you’ve been assessed by your local council as needing care, SDS gives you the freedom to choose how your allocated budget is used. You can arrange care directly with a provider like GoodOaks, or let the council manage it for you.

The goal is simple: choice, control, and flexibility.

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The Four SDS Options

When approved for SDS, you’ll be offered one or more of the following:
Option 1 – Direct Payment
You receive the funds directly and use them to pay for your care. This gives you full control — you choose your provider, schedule, and level of support. Many families select this option to work directly with trusted private providers like GoodOaks Homecare Glasgow South.
Option 2 – Directed by You, Managed by the Council or a Third Party
You decide what care you’d like, but someone else (often the council) manages the payments. It’s ideal if you want flexibility without handling the paperwork.
Option 3 – Council-Arranged Support
The council organises everything for you, choosing providers and managing the budget on your behalf.
Option 4 – A Combination
You can mix and match the above options — for instance, using direct payments for daily visits while the council arranges respite care.

How to Access SDS in Glasgow and East Renfrewshire

If you live in Glasgow
📞 0141 287 0555
A social worker will assess your needs and discuss your goals. If eligible, you’ll receive a budget estimate and guidance on the SDS options available.
If you live in East Renfrewshire
Contact: East Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Partnership
📞 0141 577 3107
After your assessment, you can decide whether to manage your care budget yourself or have it organised by the council – including the option to choose GoodOaks Homecare Glasgow South as your preferred provider.

Why Choose SDS for Private Care

SDS puts you in control – and that’s especially valuable if you want a personalised care experience. Here’s why many families use SDS to work with private care providers like GoodOaks:
    • Freedom of Choice: Pick the carers and schedule that best fit your life.
    • Consistency: Build trusted relationships with the same team of carers.
  • Flexibility: Adjust your support as your needs evolve.
  • Quality & Trust: Select providers who align with your standards and values.
  • Local Knowledge: Work with people who understand your area and community.

 

Other Funding Support to Explore
Even if you’re not eligible for SDS, you may qualify for other forms of help:
  • Attendance Allowance: For people over pension age needing personal support.
  • Carer’s Allowance: For unpaid carers providing at least 35 hours of care per week.
  • Personal Independence Payment (PIP): For those under pension age needing daily living or mobility assistance.
  • Local Authority Means-Tested Support: Depending on income and savings, your council may fund part or all of your care.
Your local social work department or Citizens Advice Bureau can advise what you’re entitled to.

How GoodOaks Homecare Can Help

We understand that funding care can be confusing – but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Our friendly team can guide you through SDS and other options to find the best approach for your situation.
We also offer free consultations to discuss your care needs, funding routes, and next steps — whether you’re exploring private care or applying for SDS.

Our services include:

– Visiting care and companionship
– Dementia and Alzheimer’s support
– Respite care for family carers
– Live-in care for 24-hour support
– Free digital health monitoring for clients

 

Get in Touch

If you’d like to learn more about Self-Directed Support or discuss funding options for homecare, we’re happy to help. To speak to a member of our team at Glasgow South please click here.

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