Since January 2016 I have employed support workers from a support agency to provide my support. I chose option 1 so I get a direct payment which is paid to an accountant who then deals with the invoices from the support agency. I used to employ a PA but I found it was getting too much for me to manage so although it allowed me more flexibility the stress of being an employer was too much. My main outcome just now is to improve my fitness and health so I attend the Active Hydro class at Kirkcaldy Leisure Centre with one of my support workers and then later in the week my other support worker comes and we try to do an hour of exercise perhaps going swimming, for a walk or some other form of gentle exercise. Doing exercise helps with my chronic pain and arthritis, I work to the level I can manage. Having SDS allows me to be flexible with my hours so I also go on the odd day out and I can get help to attend appointments e.g. at the hospital, about benefits, GP. I'm lucky that one of my support workers is able to provide that flexibility for me so I can do the things I want to do and be more independent. SDS has made a huge difference to my life and allowed me to go back to work. I don't have to worry about being a manager, finding someone to cover if my worker is off sick, or deal with any of the finance side of things so I can just focus on my outcomes. Option 1 isn't for everyone but it does give the most choice and control. Things were very up and down for me when I started receiving SDS so it isn't always plain sailing but it's worth sticking with it and trying out different things until you get it right. It's your support so it needs to be right for you!
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