Direct Payments

What is a Direct Payment? 

It is money that is paid to you (or someone acting on your behalf) by Kingston Council so you can arrange your own support. You will need to sign a Direct Payment agreement with Kingston Council that sets out the rules that you need to follow.

How can I get a Direct Payment?

We'll need to meet you to talk about the type and amount of support you will need and what you would like to get out of it. This is called an 'assessment' and it is free.

You will also need to have a financial assessment to work out your financial contribution.

Please see further information on personal budgets.

Prepaid card account - is a bank account arranged for you to receive your Direct Payment. It’s just like a current account from your bank and you can use it to pay for services identified in your support plan. Kingston Council will open this account for you and make payments straight into it. It is kept separate from your personal accounts but offers a full range of services including;

• Making payments In person using chip and pin

• Setting up standing orders or direct debits

• Making bank transfers over the internet or telephone

• Using cash payments if there is no alternative

• Checking account balances and statements online, over the telephone or at a cash machine (ATM)

Benefits - The prepaid card bank account offers many special benefits:

• You don’t need to open a separate bank account or provide us with regular monitoring forms, receipts or invoices

• It's simpler to use than a traditional bank account

• You cannot go overdrawn or get into debt

• You can choose a trusted person to help you to manage the account if you would like support

• Any surplus can be returned to Kingston Council via a bank transfer as agreed with you

• More time to complete reviews of your support

• No credit checks

Obtaining a prepaid bank account

Contact your social care team to discuss your options and eligibility on 0208 547 5005. As soon as we have agreed your support plan and received completed documents from you we will open the bank account. Cards and bank details will be sent directly to your address.

If you are an existing Direct Payment user and wish to receive a prepaid card bank account, please discuss with your social care worker who can advise and support you in the transition.

ASC Direct Payments

Address: The Guildhall (3rd Floor), High Street, Kingston Upon Thames KT1 1EU

Telephone: 0208 547 5005   Fax: 0208 547 6614 

Email: SDSteam@kingston.gov.uk