In 1996 the Government introduced legislation that enabled local authorities to give people with disabilities, aged between 18 and 64, who were eligible for help from the Council, cash payments as an alternative to services.

Since 1996 new legislation has been introduced enabling the Council to give direct payments to the vast majority of people they support, regardless of their age or disability.

Direct payments are a cash alternative to the services that individuals are eligible to receive from Stockport Council. Instead of the Council providing or arranging services individuals can choose to receive a direct payment in order that they, or their carer/nominee, can arrange their own support or care.

Direct payments enable people to take more control over the type of support they receive. People who receive direct payments can choose and arrange how their care needs are best met. For example, by directly employing their own care staff. If you are interested in Direct Payments and would like more information, please see 'Related Contacts' on the right of the page.