SDS is about gaining or maintaining your Independence.

There may be times in our lives that we need support from family, friends or carers to help us with everyday tasks. SDS helps you to get the support you need to allow you to stay in your own home, go out into the community and find you again.

​Please click on the links below to find out more information on Self Directed Support. The Information has been broken down into several topics to make it easier to find the information you need. If anything is missing please let us know.

Employing Family Members

If you feel a family member is better placed to provide care then speak with your social worker and ask them about exceptional circumstances. 

Can i ask for an Assessment?

If you require support to get up, dressed and washed or have to rely on others to eat, take medication or go to the toilet for example give Social Work a call
Fife Council's Social Care Eligibility Criteria

How does this all work?

Give our staff a call and we can help take you step by step through the process of Option 1 - when you become the employer and pay for someone of your choosing to come in and help

What should i think about before the Social Work visit?

Keep in mind what issues you face on a day to day basis. The solutions to these challenges or issues may be referred to as outcomes.
What are Outcomes?

PAs role with administering medication

Training may need to be provided by a professional or course to reduce any risk of harm and mistakes. The PA can refuse to do this so discuss options with your social work team 

What support can i ask for?

Think about whether a personal assistant (PA) or an agency would work best for you circumstances.
Just speak with one of our staff or your social worker to learn more
Learn more about the four options

What else can you do?

We can help design and advert, advertise and offer HR support throughout the process.
We can signpost you to community resources as well as providing lists of agencies that may be able to help your situation
Factsheets - downloadable information on SDS
What to do now

Click the pathway button to find out more
How to be an Employer
information

SDS Sign Language Interpretation films

If you are a sign language user the Scottish Government with Deaf Action have interpreted the SDS guides and information into sign language films. You can view the films by clicking on the link below.
Self Directed Support: My Support, My Choice: Your Guide to Social Care